Although the title of this book would lead you to believe it is a racing instruction manual with a very specific focus it is in fact a commentary on life told through the eyes of Enzo, a dog owned by an amateur racer. On the surface this seems like a ridiculous concept however seeing the world interpreted through the mind of a canine makes everything seem clearer and simpler.

Without giving away too much I can tell you that the story is about Enzo’s owner and the terrible misfortunes he is put through. The lead character is a beginning level race driver in an organization like SCCA or NASA. Like so many of us in the motorsports world he is balancing his work and home life with the money and time consuming world of racing. Throughout the whole ordeal his four-legged life companion is there, witnessing it all. Within these pages are many true to life words of wisdom that work both in the driver seat and in the outside world.

I must prepare any who seek to read this novel that all but the most emotionless monsters will find this to be a tear-jerker beyond Old Yeller or Where the Red Fern Grows. At 321 pages in paperback it is a very fast weekend read. Those well-versed in the automotive and motorsports worlds will love the references to specific races, drivers and machines. This book is not just for automotive enthusiasts or animal lovers, it bridges the niche gap and strikes a chord somewhere in all our lives. I would rate the novel PG-13 for content. There is also a more child-friendly version available called Racing in the Rain: My Life as a Dog.

The Art Of Racing In The Rain retails for $14.99 but can be had for less through Amazon.com.