
The Art of Racing in the Rain
Garth Stein(Author)
HarperCollins (Publisher)
Published on 5. March 2009
Book
Paperback/Softback
336 pages
978-0-00-728119-0 (ISBN)
Description
Soon to be a major motion picture, this heart-warming and inspirational tale follows Enzo, a loyal family dog, tells the story of his human family, how they nearly fell apart, and what he did to bring them back together.
Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: he thinks and feels in nearly human ways. He has educated himself by watching extensive television, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo realizes that racing is a metaphor: that by applying the techniques a driver would apply on the race track, one can successfully navigate the ordeals and travails one encounters in life.
Enzo relates the story of his human family, sharing their tragedies and triumphs. In the end, despite what he sees as his own limitations as a dog, Enzo comes through heroically to preserve the Swift family.
The Art of Racing in the Rain is a testament to a man's life, given by his dog. But it is also a testament to the dog, himself. Though Enzo cannot speak, he understands everything that happens around him as he bears witness to his master's problems. His enforced muteness only refines his listening ability, and allows him to understand many of life's nuances that are lost on most humans. With humour, sharp observation, and a courageous heart, Enzo guides the reader to the bittersweet yet ultimately satisfying conclusion: there are no limitations to what we can achieve, if we truly know where we want to be.
Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: he thinks and feels in nearly human ways. He has educated himself by watching extensive television, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo realizes that racing is a metaphor: that by applying the techniques a driver would apply on the race track, one can successfully navigate the ordeals and travails one encounters in life.
Enzo relates the story of his human family, sharing their tragedies and triumphs. In the end, despite what he sees as his own limitations as a dog, Enzo comes through heroically to preserve the Swift family.
The Art of Racing in the Rain is a testament to a man's life, given by his dog. But it is also a testament to the dog, himself. Though Enzo cannot speak, he understands everything that happens around him as he bears witness to his master's problems. His enforced muteness only refines his listening ability, and allows him to understand many of life's nuances that are lost on most humans. With humour, sharp observation, and a courageous heart, Enzo guides the reader to the bittersweet yet ultimately satisfying conclusion: there are no limitations to what we can achieve, if we truly know where we want to be.
Reviews / Votes
Praise for The Art of Racing in The Rain:'The Art of Racing in the Rain is the perfect book for anyone who knows that some of our best friends walk beside us on four legs; that compassion isn't only for humans; and that the relationship between two souls who are meant for each other never really comes to an end. Every now and then, I'm lucky enough to read a novel I can't stop thinking about: this is one of them.' Jodi Piccoult
'The Art of Racing in The Rain has everything: love, tragedy, redemption, danger, and-best of all-the canine narrator Enzo. This old soul of a dog has much to teach to us about being human. I loved this book.' Sara Gruen, author of Water for Elephants
'The Art of Racing in the Rain takes you on an unforgettable journey through another kind of mind, through the eyes - and nose - of a dog. I found it fascinating.' Temple Grandin, author of Animals in Translation
Praise for How Evan Broke His Head:
"An engrossing family drama." Publishers Weekly
"A powerful story" Seattle Times
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
London
United Kingdom
Publishing group
HarperCollins Publishers
Product notice
Unsewn / adhesive bound
Paperback (UK-B)
Dimensions
Height: 195 mm
Width: 130 mm
Thickness: 25 mm
Weight
241 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-00-728119-0 (9780007281190)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions

Garth Stein
The Art of Racing in the Rain
E-Book
03/2009
1st Edition
HarperCollins
€7.49
Available for download
Garth Stein
The Art of Racing in the Rain
Book
06/2008
HarperCollins
€5.00
No shipping information available
Person
Garth Stein is the author of How Evan Broke His Head and Other Secrets, which won a 2006 Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association Book Award, and Raven Stole the Moon. He has also written a full-length play, Brother Jones, which was described as "brimming with intensity" by the L.A. Weekly. Garth worked as a documentary filmmaker for eight years, and directed, produced or co-produced several award winning films. After spending his childhood in Seattle and then living in New York City for eighteen years, Garth returned to Seattle, where he currently lives with his family and their dog, Comet.