logo

60 pages 2 hours read

Garth Stein

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein is a novel narrated by Enzo, a wise and philosophical dog, about the life of his owner, race car driver Denny Swift. Through Enzo's eyes, readers experience Denny's joys and struggles, including the complexities of his racing career, his wife's illness, and a challenging custody battle for his daughter. Themes of loyalty, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams are explored. Sensitive topics include terminal illness and accusations of sexual assault.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Garth Stein's The Art of Racing in the Rain garners praise for its unique narrative told from a dog's perspective, offering heartfelt insight into human nature. Many appreciate its emotional depth and exploration of life’s challenges, though some critique it for potential sentimental overreach. Overall, it is a poignant story resonating with animal lovers and introspective readers alike.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Art of Racing in the Rain?

Fans of heartfelt, animal-narrated stories will adore The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. Similar to readers who enjoyed Marley & Me or A Dog’s Purpose, they’ll revel in the emotional journey, themes of loyalty, and life lessons told through the eyes of a dog, appealing to both pet lovers and those seeking a tear-jerker.

Book Details
Pages

321

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Seattle, Washington • Contemporary

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

Lexile Level

850L

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.