Racing in the Rain, My Life as a Dog by Garth Stein

 This is a painfully poignant story narrated by a dog.   If you like soupy books and love dogs, prepare your reading time with a full box of tissues. 

This is the story of a family and their dog.   A dog that just knows that his next revolution on the wheel of creation he is going to have opposable thumbs and vocal cords uses his insight and narrative skills to tell the story.

The story is moving and characterizes the value of perseverance, patience and tenacity.   Love can not conquer all but love can sustain life.    Driving race cars provide Denny and Enzo metaphors for living their lives.   This story can teach compassion and a willingness to help others. 

This is purported to be a kid’s book and admittedly the reading level is hardly taxing.   However it is emotionally charged and could be a bit intense for the younger reader.  (Remember Ole Yeller?) 

Although this book could easily be read by the literate first grader I would not recommend it for the primary grades.   I think it would be fine for the upper elementary grades and on up.  I enjoyed it but then there have always been questions regarding my maturity level.

I recommend the book, it is inspiring, sad and satisfying.

Body of work of Garth Stein

Web Site: http://www.garthstein.com/arr/

Journals of the Big Mouth Bass by Debbie Sue Bass Williamson

I gave this book to Rachel, a 10 year old, a 5^th grade friend of mine who was kind enough to read and review it from the target market perspective.   The blue highlights are my additions or corrections.  

In her exact words:  This book is about nine years old Debbie Bass, who thought most of her presents were stupid or lame.   She had a hard time keeping secrets so she wrote entries in the journal.   She gets the nickname big mouth bass from her brother.  (Who tries to be really girly but just can’t do it. ) (She is referring to Debbie here.)

I liked this book because it’s a ture, funny and heart warming story.   In the story she tries (attempts) to feed her dog whatever she does not like, set the C on fire and become more girly.   But they all backfire. 

I did not have complaints. (about the book)

I think 3^rd -5^th graders. (would like the book.)

It is interesting that although Debbie’s journal entries are addressed to God, that point was not even commented on by Rachel.   It didn’t seem strange to her.   I was struck by the author’s reaction to President Kennedy’s assassination.    I suspect that most of us who were alive that day have an equally clear and vivid memory or where we were and how we heard.   That part struck me but again, it didn’t seem to mean as much to someone in the target age group as it is, to them, ancient history.   I found this to be a very touching book.  

I recommend the book too.  

I recommend the book.

Body of work of Debbie Sue Bass Williamson

Web Site: none found