The art of driving in the rain (Amount, 2008) is a moving book written by Garth Stein. The novel has won him awards and recognition, and has topped the best-seller list of The New York Times. It has also been adapted to the cinema in 2019 by Simon Curtis (My week with Marilyn). Actors like Amanda Seyfried or Kevin Costner participate in this version, who gives the voice to the sweet dog in the story.
The protagonist of the novel is Enzo, a wise dog, whose soul has something human about it. He doesn't look like other animals, and the Swift family, with whom he shares his life, knows this well. It is a book that could be understood as a fable because is full of teachings, as well as love for animals, family and dreams. Do you dare to read it?
The art of driving in the rain
Enzo
"In Mongolia, when a dog dies it is buried on top of the mountain so that no one can step on its grave." This is how this novel begins, with a very direct and condensed introduction of what we can find in it. The narrating voice is that of a very human dog, named Enzo, which keeps a lot of wisdom of life, a life that is already coming to an end. Therefore, there are many experiences that he treasures and that he begins to explore from the beginning so that the reader can reach the final point where Enzo is already, in that position, almost ready to leave earthly life.
It could be said that the novel has something spiritual, yes, but it also has a touch of humor. For example, in the introduction Enzo points out as a reference to a program of National Geographic, to which he grants full credibility after seeing that in Mongolia it is said that the soul of some dogs can be reincarnated in a man if he is prepared for it. He says that he is.
Of course, Enzo corresponds to that laudable figure who seeks to protect his family, the Swifts. And he has the firm conviction to do the same with humanity to have a new opportunity as a man.
a book with soul
Enzo has a great will to become a better being (canine, human?) for this world and for everyone in it. AND This eagerness to give the best of himself towards others has been found in the love of his family.. Each member of that family has marked him and has found happiness at his side. He has seen his master Danny's endeavor and success, as well as suffering and loss. He has accompanied the little one of the house, Zoë, from the moment she was born. And he has also taken care of Eve, Danny's wife, whom he has grown to love.
The art of driving in the rain it becomes a parable with each Enzo's learning, which is also that of each reader. He leads them by the hand (or by the paw) and immerses them in satisfaction, pain, but above all, in love, company and understanding of what it means to be alive in relation to the pack, which is the family, and sharing a life in society.
Balance, anticipation, patience
The author based his text on personal experiences derived from his love of driving racing cars. The pressure and mastery of the technique, as well as the danger that comes with it, will be of great help to amo and can in their awareness of the risks of life. Something that is inevitable and that we must accept. Life itself is a trance we all know how it ends. It does not have a pessimistic message, on the contrary, it warns about the power of anticipation, teaches to cultivate patience and transmits a balanced look in the face of life's battles.
Likewise, The art of driving in the rain It is a calming read and is also perfect for animal lovers.. It is a moving book that will move you, and that is far from being a drama. The novel is a life lesson full of faith for the future for the new generations.
About the Author
Garth Stein is an American writer born in Los Angeles in 1964.. After studying Fine Arts at Columbia University and specializing in film, he dedicated himself to producing and directing documentaries. Since writing was also something that she had cultivated during his profession, she decided to direct her professional course towards literature with the new millennium.
In addition to being a creative writing teacher, he published some works and premiered plays before jumping to publishing success with The art of driving in the rain. A book that can be found translated into different languages and in a film version. From the author it is also in Spanish someone stole the moon. He currently lives in Seattle with his wife and his three children, as well as a dog named Comet.