by Garth Stein
First published 2008
Enzo considers himself unlike other dogs. He thinks like a philosopher and dreams of having opposable thumbs. Television has taught him much about the world, but his real education comes from listening to Denny Swift, his owner and an aspiring race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo learns that racing mirrors life itself. Speed alone never wins races or solves problems. As Enzo approaches death, he looks back on the years he spent with Denny and their family. He remembers the struggles they faced together and the bonds that held them through difficult times. The story mixes heartbreak with humor as Enzo observes human behavior from his unique canine perspective. His loyalty to Denny never wavers, even when circumstances test their relationship. Enzo sees the contradictions in human nature, the way people can be both foolish and wise. His observations reveal truths about love, family, and hope that only an outsider could notice.
Genres: fiction, animals, philosophy, literary-fiction, family-life, contemporary
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, outsider-perspective
321 pages · Hardcover · HarperCollins