In Conclusion

Are you enjoying this "tale" about a dog's life? What part of the story have you come to? Is it when Annika...? I won't spoil it for you, but if you haven't finished yet continue reading you will be delighted.

It is said that in Mongolia a dog's tail is cut off and buried where no one can walk over the grave. If the dog has unfinished business it will come back as a human. Do you believe this to be true? Can you imagine your canine friend as a person? I had a dog that seemed to be trapped inside his body, the look in his eyes was so human. He has passed away, but wonder if maybe he had unfinished business and I didn't know it.
Would you know?

About the Art of Racing in the Rain

We're pleased to announce that The Art of Racing in the Rain, by Garth Stein, is the October selection. In this heartwarming and beautifully crafted novel, canine Enzo evaluates his life on the eve of his death, recalling his days as the loving protector of aspiring racecar driver Denny Swift and his family. "If you've ever wondered what you're dog is thinking (and who hasn't!), Stein's third novel offers an answer" said Publishers Weekly in their review of The Art of Racing in the Rain.

After you read and fall in love with this book (which we know you will), mark your calendar because Garth Stein is going to be one of the authors appearing at the Books by the Banks Book Festival on Saturday, October 17 at the Duke Energy Center. He'll be in the Author Pavilion all day, signing books and chatting with Festival attendees. Admission is free!

About Garth Stein

Garth Stein was born in Los Angeles and later moved to Seattle where he now resides with his wife, three children and his faithful companion Comet. According to his website the cover of his book displays a picture of his dog. Garth Stein has written two other books, Raven Stole the Moon and How Evan Broke His Head and Other Secrets. He has also produced and directed short films and documentaries. He is also a novice race car driver which makes this fictitious story credibly real.
Go to Garth's website and check out his credits, you can even submit your own "Enzo" snapshot.

Discussion Questions for The Art of Racing

Did you enjoy this tale of the life of man's best friend? In the last day of Enzo's life he recounts what meant so much to him. Denny Swift is an aspiring race car driver. Enzo is his animal companion; although he perceives himself to be a human without thumbs. Denny and Enzo knew they could rely on each other through life's ordeals. When Eve got sick Enzo was there to support Denny. Enzo was there to protect Denny from the custody battle with Zoe's grandparents and the accusations from Annika. And that magnificent ride in Denny's race car. Enzo learns a lot from watching television so he knows the techniques of racing a car, especially in racing in the rain of life, love, and friendship? Is there anyone you can truly rely on to be by your side like the friendship Enzo and Denny have. Enzo looks after Denny like a human. Do you think that is possible to be able to communicate in this manner?

Discussion Questions for The Other

I hope you're enjoying The Other. Let's get the discussion started!

1. Neil describes John William at sixteen as “The rich kid who hates and loves himself equally. The contrarian who hears his conscience calling in the same way schizophrenics hear voices, so that, for him, there’s no not listening”. Have you encountered people like John William in your own life? In literature? What makes him a believable character, rather than a stereotype?

2. Does Neil also represent a familiar type or character? What makes him interesting or appealing to you? To John William? What distinctive characteristics (strengths and flaws alike) inform the way he tells John William’s story? Consider the qualities that Neil admires in John William in contrast to how he describes himself.

About David Guterson

David Guterson was born in Seattle in 1956. He received his Master's Degree from the University of Washington and after graduation, he moved to Bainbridge Island in Puget Sound, where he taught English at the local high school and began writing for Sports Illustrated and Harper's Magazine.

Guterson is the author of a number of books and short stories, but he is probably best known for his 1994 novel, Snow Falling on Cedars, which won the 1995 PEN/Faulkner Award. Check out an interview with David Guterson here, then be sure to visit your local branch to check out a copy of The Other.

About The Other

David Guterson's The Other is a moving portrait of male friendship, set in the backdrop of Washington State's Olympic Peninsula. John William Barry and Neil Countryman, meet as high school students at a track meet in 1972. John William is from an elite Seattle family while Neil stems from a working-class background. Despite their differences, their forge a lifelong friendship that is tested when, as adults, they choose radically different paths. John William chooses to live as a hermit in the wilderness while Neil becomes a teacher, gets married and has a family. Sound interesting? Check out a review of the book and then check out a copy at your local library! Stay tuned to the Featured Book Blog. Information about the author and discussion questions are coming soon!