Thanks, Enzo!

The purpose of this blog is not to review books.
It's about my life.
But since this book made such a huge impact on my life,
I thought it only fitting that I talk about it!

I read this book a few weeks ago.
Well, I didn't actually read it.  I listened to it.
I do that a lot lately-listen to audiobooks as I work or walk my dogs.

"The Art of Racing in the Rain" is not a new book.
It's been around awhile.
I'm a little late to the party, but it's been on my "to read" list
for a long time.

When I listened to the first chapter, I admit I didn't love it
right away.  If I hadn't paid for the audiobook, I probably would
have stopped listening.   I'm soooo glad I didn't stop!

It's a simple book written in the voice of Enzo, a dog.
At the end of his life, Enzo looks back at the times of his life
with his beloved owner, Denny.  And the story unfolds.

In the telling, Enzo has a way of seeing the human world
that is funny and very insightful.  His simple observations
and wisdom teach us many things about how to live our lives.

I was literally sobbing in the last chapters of this book.
I didn't want it to end.  I didn't want Enzo to die.
And while the tears were still wet, I gave my dogs some extra
hugs as I listened to the last few chapters over again.

This book is not just for dog-lovers, although I think perhaps
it is a bit more enjoyable if you have ever known and loved one.
Dog lover or not, it forces you to look at life differently.
It shows you how to live a better life.
That's why I liked it so much!

“There is no dishonor in losing the race. There is only dishonor in not racing because you are afraid to lose.” 
― Garth Stein, The Art of Racing in the Rain