Dog Books: The Art of Racing in the Rain

Has anyone else read this book? I'm officially in love with Enzo.

I finished it in two days, on the bus rides to and from work, and over lunch breaks. Any time I could squeeze it in - it's that good!  It is an emotional book, sad and depressing in places, but I didn't cry - Enzo tells the tail of his life and family in a straightforward way. He helps you believe that it is all happening for a reason, and there isn't a need to feel pity for him - in fact, the sad parts of the book are also filled with a sort of excitement and hope. This is a book I'll look back to when our dogs are ready to leave this world. 

There is also a "young person's" version of this book.

The description from the author's website gives the overview best, so I won't try to re-word it:

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, Zoë, 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 Zoë at his side.

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.

I'd love to believe our dogs think the way Enzo does. So much so, that just in case they do, I've started talking to them more and differently since I finished reading this book. In hopes that someday, perhaps, when we're out on a run, and I ask Suvi if she wants to go faster, she'll bark twice...

What did you think? Chad won't read it because it's sad - I might be able to convince him to see the movie, should it come out - but even that's doubtful. I kinda love that about him, though.

Do you have other dog book recommendations? I love to read, and I'm always looking for suggestions!! Comments welcome below.