The Art of Racing in the Rain

If I were in a worse mood, I might have given the book 2 stars, and were I in a truly generous mood (a mood wherein I was felt inclined to praise a book because I like the subject matter), I might have gone to 3.5 stars. As it is, feeling objective and calm -- 3 stars it is. I suspect I might be in the minority here. Friends have raved about this book -- albeit friends whose lives revolve around dogs in one way or another. Still, I adore my dog in a way some people find irritating (I post photos, for example, on FB, hire a very price dog sitter to stay with my dog should I be gone for more than 4 hours at a time, and have been known to burst into tears at the mere thought of his passing), so I count myself among the canine-crazy.

I wish that had been enough to make me love this book, and it's not that I truly disliked it, but I did feel it was sentimental, maudlin and quite sloppily written. I simply couldn't suspend disbelief enough to buy into the dog-educated-by-television premise. Documentaries on the Tibetan Book of the Dying apparently persuaded our hero he shall one day be reincarnated as a man. Really? Gag. And that, of course, broadcasts the sappy ending from nearly the first pages.

I think, quite frankly, the dog deserved better. Having said that, it earns 3 stars rather than two because I think the author tried awfully hard and seemed sincere, and that deserves a pat on the head.

I loved this book, I came out of the room tears streaming and my partner said," what's wrong?'

I said, "I just finished the book". I want everyone to read this book.

This is one of the most moving,sensitive & well-written books I've ever had the pleasure to read. As voiced through Enzo, the lab mix dog, it is thought provoking & tear provoking. What a great concept. I also loved the tie in with Formula 1 racing. I have been a Formula 1 fan for decades & it was fun to see names & race courses I haven't heard mentioned in years. But this dog is a wonder. The BEST book I have read in many months. If you love animals, read this book!

Anyone who has loved a dog in their lifetime and was with them when they died will relate to this beautifully written book. It stretches the mind and confirms that dogs are, just as I always thought, really people in fuzzy clothing!

Loved this book, especially as it is from the Dogs point of view. Very cleverly written, with a good storyline also.

Great book, happy ending etc

The narrator of this story is delightful. I was slow about listening to the audiobook and got frustrated with the complications but loved the resolutions. It's the character and observations of Enzo that make this book worth reading.

Fantastic book, everyone should read it.