The Art of Racing in the Rain

Version: Unabridged
Author: Garth Stein
Narrator: Christopher Evan Welch
Genres: Fiction
Publisher: HarperAudio
Published In: June 2009
# of Units: 6 CDs
Length: 7 hours
Ratings:
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Overview

Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul (and an obsession with opposable thumbs), he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver.

Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing, isn't simply about going fast. Using the techniques needed on the race track, one can successfully navigate all of life's ordeals.

On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through: the sacrifices Denny has made to succeed professionally; the unexpected loss of Eve, Denny's wife; the three-year battle over their daughter, Zo', whose maternal grandparents pulled every string to gain custody. In the end, despite what he sees as his own limitations, Enzo comes through heroically to preserve the Swift family, holding in his heart the dream that Denny will become a racing champion with Zo' at his side. Having learned what it takes to be a compassionate and successful person, the wise canine can barely wait until his next lifetime, when he is sure he will return as a man.

A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope, The Art of Racing in the Rain is a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life . . . as only a dog could tell it.

Reviews (21)

Touching Tail :)

Written by Anonymous from Pennsburg, PA on February 28th, 2013

  • Book Rating: 5/5

Loved this story and it's narrator. This book was recommended to me by a colleague and I enjoyed every disk! The narrator really made you a part of the story.

Great Book

Written by Anonymous on January 17th, 2013

  • Book Rating: 5/5

I loved this book. It was well written, had a good story, and kept me interested the entire time. Made me laugh out loud in my car.

woof woof

Written by Dudemom from Tijeras, NM on October 17th, 2012

  • Book Rating: 5/5

This was a wonderful book, written from the dog's perspective - how clever! It ia a must "read" for all dog lovers. I laughed and cried and now know that my communications with own beloved dogs is getting through. I know that what I "manifest will appear". great story!

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Written by Anonymous on October 1st, 2012

  • Book Rating: 5/5

Delightful book! Narrator excellent. Made the miles to St Louis pass easily. I highly recommend.

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Written by EdzgurlNC from Youngsville, NC on September 7th, 2012

  • Book Rating: 4/5

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Being recently converted to the joys of dogs (grandmother to four dogs in the past 3 years), previously being only a cat-person, it was really interesting and well-written from the dog's point of view. I found myself laughing, cheering, and emotionally caught-up in the story. Great narration, too.

Woof

Written by Anonymous from Folsom, CA on July 26th, 2012

  • Book Rating: 5/5

A well written book. The reading was great. The story and perspective from which it's written is engaging.

Written by Dave Anderson on July 9th, 2012

  • Book Rating: 5/5

Awesome book!! I laughed out loud, I frowned, and yes, I cried a little. This is a must listen. You will not regret it.

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Written by Kady on June 6th, 2012

  • Book Rating: 5/5

I found myself looking forward to listening to this book on tape during my commute home and then driving around the block so I could just finish the next chapter. I loved the book - - and I loved Enzo.

Written by Janie Gafford on April 15th, 2012

  • Book Rating: 4/5

Poignant. It's not as heavy as I thought it would be. It's an easy listen.

Written by Mel Kaye on March 6th, 2012

  • Book Rating: 5/5

I laughed, cried, got chills, and loved every minute of the wonderful experience. As a dog lover, I was able to relate. I recommend this book to anyone and everyone.

Author Details

Author Details

Stein, Garth

Garth Stein is the author of three novels, including the "New York Times" bestseller "The Art of Racing in the Rain" and "How Evan Broke His Head and Other Secrets", and a play, "Brother Jones". He has worked as a documentary filmmaker, and he lives in Seattle with his family.