.Book Talk
Current Book for October 2026
The Art of Racing in the Rain
by Garth Stein
We will meet on Saturday, October 24, 2026
at The Point 104 W. Grand River Ave. in Portland (MI)
at 9:15 a.m. for breakfast to discuss the book.
About The Book
Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul
(and an obsession with opposable thumbs), he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an
up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing, isn’t simply about going fast. Using the techniques needed on the race track, one can successfully navigate all of life’s ordeals.
On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through: the sacrifices Denny has made to succeed professionally; the unexpected loss of Eve, Denny’s wife; the three-year battle over their daughter, Zoë, whose maternal grandparents pulled every string to gain custody. In the end, despite what he sees as his own limitations, Enzo comes through heroically to preserve the Swift family, holding in his heart the dream that Denny will become a racing champion with Zoë at his side.
A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope, The Art of Racing in the Rain is a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life…as only a dog could tell it.
About The Author
Garth Stein is the internationally bestselling author of the contemporary classic The Art of Racing in the Rain, which was made into a major motion picture. The Art of Racing in the Rain has sold more than 6 million copies world-wide, has been translated into 38 languages, and spent more than three years on the New York Times bestseller list.
Stein is the author of three other novels—A Sudden Light, How Evan Broke His Head and other Secrets, and Raven Stole the Moon, as well as a full-length play, Brother Jones.
Garth lives in Seattle with his wife and three sons. He was an amateur race car
driver until he left racing after a serious crash—while racing in the rain.
Book Talk
Our book club is very casual and welcoming.
Please plan to join us whether you read the book or not.
We do discuss the book, but it's also about the fellowship. The more the merrier!
Please feel free to contact us to confirm the date/time/locationfor our Book Talk, as
sometimes we do have to change it on short notice. Our contact information can be
found by clicking on the Contact tab at the top of this page.
Click on the Book List tab near the top of the page for a
complete list of all of the books that Book Talk has read.
Information about the book and author from the author's website: garthstein.com
This web-page updated 9-27-2026
