The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

I can't say that I wasn't engrossed in this book. It's a fast read and I read it in a couple days. I did enjoy it, even though it was a bit cliche in parts.

The novel is told from the point of view of Enzo, a dog, who is loyal, smart and very insightful. Even though I have never had a dog, I could relate to my friends who do and who cherish their dogs and think of them as human. There was so much to love about Enzo in this story.
His owner, Denny, encounters all kinds of bad luck that seems to keep piling up. But as a race car driver, he always keeps his eyes ahead and on the road. The book is a bit preachy in that regard but the message is good. I can see this being a really good book for high schoolers. It's a fast read, holds your attention, and has a message. The art of racing in the rain is a metaphor on how to lead your life, staying in focus.
So, I will recommend it - not as a great work of literature, but for providing an interesting twist to a story of a family struggling through hard times - and surviving!