Although in the children's section in the library, this was not a children's book. I stopped reading it to my boys, because the content was ...for lack of a better word, 'too real'. The ease by which parent's rights could be taken away was shown clearly through this fiction. (Thus the 'too real' for my boys) But it presents an accurate view of society's view on father's rights. (Very concerning)


Stein provides a good example of a book written in one POV---from a dog's perspective.


The theme of fighting for what you treasure without quitting offered hope and inspiration.

The lessons from racing cars paralleled life's lessons adding a different perspective unknown to me.

I didn't finish reading it to my boys, but I had to finish reading it for myself. (and gave them a synopsis for closure)

A book of warning to fathers who don't see what society is doing to their rights. Hang in there and don't quit. Fathers are needed.
( )

I haven't met a person who didn't get teary while reading this book. ( )

Told from the dog's point of view, how he wished he could talk to help a father regain custody of his daughter. ( )

Adult Reader Reaction: This is a well-told story. It is poignant, but also has some humorous moments. You don't have to be a dog lover to appreciate Racing in the Rain, but it is a help. Although this is listed as a book for a "middle grade" audience, there are several elements that may require adults to be engaged in the reading: Eve loses her battle with cancer, Zoe is separated from Denny because of a custody suit by her grandparents, and Enzo reflects on his life as he is dying. I would recommend this for high school students as a high interest / low readability book.

Pros: Any reader who has ever wondered what their pet sees or thinks will enjoy this dog's eye view of family life. This is a sweet story with a happy (but not totally predictable) ending.

Read our full review and add yours at The Reading Tub®.

Story from dog's point of view. His owner is Denny, who is a race car driver. A good portion of the story is the custody battle with the in-laws after his wife dies from brain cancer. It has a good ending. It's an OK story, just nothing to write home about. ( )