A review by sphynxreads
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.0

I can see why once upon a time, this was a hit. There were certainly a number of parts that made me feel things and there's the irresistible charm of a dog story, but overall this seemed to me more emotionally manipulative than anything. It doesn't offer much in the way of introspection about what it means to be human (or what it means to be a dog) that I found myself largely underwhelmed. I haven't read the source material yet, but I think I liked the approach and the heartfelt story in A Dog's Purpose more, at least from what I've seen in the film adaptation.