Book Review:

The Art of Racing in the Rain

by Garth Stein
List Price: $23.95 (hard cover)

ENZO, the family dog, is the narrator of this lovely family story and the only thing that I would doubt is that Enzo wanted to be human. It just takes the edge off the story for me, as I don't think the human, with all its complexities and connivings, would ever reach the transparent loyalty and respect that dogs have for fellow creatures.

However, told through the eyes of the dog, this is the story of mother, father, daughter and dog - a close family until mother (Eve) is diagnosed with cancer. The consequences then begin to unravel themselves as Eve and her daughter Zoe go to live with Eve's parents while her husband Denny remains in the family home to keep it maintained and continue his training as a racing car driver and work as a mechanic.

After Eve's eventual death her parents decide to try to gain custody of Zoe from Denny, and they are not too particular how they achieve that end (that's what I mean about the human condition). It is not a story where everything turns up roses in the end, but is really two stories in one. Enzo's story is the second one - he is telling his story as a very old dog and has many of the problems of older dogs such as stiff and painful hips, but he recognises (dogs know these things) that he is ready to be born as human in his next life and is looking forward to that new life with enthusiasm.

The story is well organised and well written and is sure to please those looking for a book they can become part of. Also available as a video - a temporary but intensely real escape into drama, dogs and racing cars. Recommended reading or watching. - EP