DENVER -- April 22, 2008

Ooooh, I do love a good story!

Nothing like a cozy evening curled up with a Milk Bone, some ice cubes and a good book. And I read a wonderful book last night called "The Art of Racing in the Rain," by Garth Stein. It's one of those "read it all in one sitting" kinds of books.

The narrator is a dog named Enzo. Now I ask you, how many books are narrated by dogs? The answer is "Not enough!" (My favorites include "Life is Good" and "Christmas is Good" by Trixie Koontz, and "Sight Hound" by Pam Houston. Let me know if you have others.)

Enzo's owner Denny is a race car driver and Enzo shares his love of racing. They watch movies about races and tapes of Denny's real races together, and Denny even takes Enzo along for the ride in one memorable scene. WOOF WOOF means go faster!

The story centers around Denny's wife Eve's death and his battle with his former in-laws for custody of his daughter. Enzo, like most dogs, has some rather astonishing insights into humans, and he's able to take Denny's lessons for successful racing and apply them to life. His greatest lesson is "That which you manifest is before you." Not a new idea by any means, but one worth repeating. (I admit to trying to manifest cookies, yet they don't appear. Hmmmm. Perhaps I need more practice.)

I learned some cool stuff about racing, too. It's too bad that I don't know any drivers personally who might take me for a hot lap in a fast car. I'm not sure that's a CCI-approved activity anyhow.

Marianne says I should point out that human readers should have Kleenex handy for the ending. She was reading over my shoulder and sniffling for the last few pages. We both agree this book gets four paws up for the clever and beautiful writing, the interesting story and of course, Enzo.

And here's great news: the author, Garth Stein, will be in Denver Monday, June 09, 07:30 p.m. at the Tattered Cover Book Store! Marianne says she'll take me to meet him. I wonder if he'll be surprised to have a dog in line asking to get his copy of the book autographed?

Chow for now!

Parker

For more information on the book, go to www.theartofracingintherain.com.

Would you like more information about Canine Companions for Independence, or how to become a puppy raiser? Call 1-800-572-BARK or go to www.cci.org for details.

Questions or comments for Parker? Send them to Call7ForHelp@TheDenverChannel.com.