Reading Is For the Dogs: Tammy’s June Picks

Just in time for Father’s Day -- two great books featuring a dog as the main character, naturally!

I did a review a while back on The Art of Racing in the Rain, but thought I would pass it along again as it is the perfect gift, along with A Dog’s Purpose, for the dog-loving guy in your life…

The Art of Racing in the Rain, by Garth Stein (Harper)
Jodi Picoult said it much better than I ever could, “The Art of Racing in the Rain is the perfect book for anyone who knows that some of our best friends walk beside us on four legs, that compassion isn’t only for humans, and that the relationship between two souls who are meant for each other never really comes to an end. Every now and then, I’m lucky enough to read a novel I can’t stop thinking about; this is one of them.”

Attention all dog lovers: If there is one book you should read this year, The Art of Racing in the Rain, by Seattle author, Garth Stein, is it. This tale is told from the dog’s point of view on the last day of his life and is simply captivating... I could not put it down and although there were many poignant moments throughout the story, I only cried at the very end and even then, only because their final parting was sweet and touching and the loving bond between Enzo and Denny will never really end.

A Dog’s Purpose: A Novel for Humans, by W. Bruce Cameron (Forge)
All dogs go to heaven, unless they have unfinished business here on Earth. Thus begins the story of Bailey, an endearing mutt, who comes back to earth repeatedly searching for his purpose in life... Bailey’s life really begins when he finds himself in the arms of an eight year old boy, named Ethan.

This story is an emotional, yet hilarious and often heartwarming tale of one special dog…and truly, that one dog, is the dog each and every one of us own.

I loved this book for its touching and funny story and for the way it explores the bond that all dog lovers share with man’s best friend.