Garth Stein

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You are here: Home / Works / The Art of Racing in the Rain

The Art of Racing in the Rain

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

The Art of Racing in the Rain


“In Mongolia, when a dog dies, he is buried high in the hills so people cannot walk on his grave. The dog’s master whispers into the dog’s ear his wishes that the dog will return as a man in his next life. Then his tail is cut off and put beneath his head, and a piece of meat or fat is placed in his mouth to sustain his soul on its journey; before he is reincarnated, the dog’s soul is freed to travel the land, to run across the high desert plains for as long as it would like.

I learned that from a program on the National Geographic channel, so I believe it is true. Not all dogs return as men, they say; only those who are ready.

I am ready.”

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.

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Latest News

  • The Art of Racing in the Rain — The Movie

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Latest News

  • The Art of Racing in the Rain — The Movie

    The Art of Racing in the Rain — The Movie

  • Early Reveal: ENZO AND THE 4TH OF JULY RACES Cover!

    Early Reveal: ENZO AND THE 4TH OF JULY RACES Cover!

  • #EnzosHalloween Costume Contest

    #EnzosHalloween Costume Contest

  • Enzo’s new website for kids!

    Enzo’s new website for kids!

  • A Chat With Garth About the Magic of Old Cars

    A Chat With Garth About the Magic of Old Cars

  • Chat Books With Garth Stein

    Chat Books With Garth Stein

  • Enzo’s Very Scary Halloween

    Enzo’s Very Scary Halloween

  • Cool Off with A Sudden Light

    Cool Off with A Sudden Light

  • Summer Reading with The Art of Racing in the Rain

    Summer Reading with The Art of Racing in the Rain

  • Andrew Luck Book Club Selects The Art of Racing in the Rain

    Andrew Luck Book Club Selects The Art of Racing in the Rain

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