Garth Stein's book, "The Art of Racing in the Rain" is one of my favorite books. I have read through it numerous times. How Evan Broke His Head is NOT ...Racing in the Rain but, then again, who said it should be? "Evan" lacked the comical and somewhat philosopical aura about it that "Rain" held for me and many times I had to tell myself to reset my expectations. Perhaps I was looking for a sequel? Perhaps I was trying to tie the two stories together? Whatever my motives, once I accepted the story for the mere words on the page, I realized what a powerful and moving story it truly was. Evan lives his life in fear, he hides behind fascades and lies and blames everyone and holds himself completely blameless - like a victim.

Sometimes we need a purpose in life; sometimes we just need someone to need us. The death of Evan's first love, who he hasn't seen in nearly 15 years, brings light and perspective to Evan's life. A child he didn't know he had, paternal heartstrings he didn't know existed and the realization of a life yet lived are the backbone of this story. It is a story of redemption and of forgiveness. It is a tale of acceptance and removing barriers. It is an awakening -- a journey, and one that I am glad I got to make as I waltzed through its pages.

And while the books may appear to lack a common thread, this reader realized that even Evan learned to fight his battles and learned the Art of Racing in the Rain.