We, the shop dogs of Parnassus Books, received an assignment from our people last week: to “read” (or sample with any of our other senses) a new book called The Dogist. You may have read about it. Based in New York City, photographer Elias Weiss Friedman snaps photos of dogs on walks, out to play, and at rest for his popular Instagram account of the same name. Now those dogs have their own book, full of 1,000 friendly faces like these:
Opie made sure we had plenty of copies in stock for everyone, and we got right to work.
First, Belle evaluated the fragrance of the book. After several sniffs, she declared it smelled fine, if perhaps not as much like dogs as the cover image initially led her to believe.
Then Mary Todd Lincoln looked at the pictures. Friedman has captured dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments for the pages of The Dogist. MTL was particularly intrigued with the photo of a dapple-colored Dachshund in the “Puppies” chapter.
Eleanor Roosevelt tasted the book once and then three more times, picking up on different flavors each time.
Opie read the words, stopping to concentrate on a chapter called “Barkers,” which he found to be quite authentic.
Next, some of us did our best imitation of the cover pose.
Finally, we got together to discuss our impressions and come up with a review.
It’s unanimous: We give this book four paws, which is our highest rating. It smells nice and tastes OK, but most importantly, it makes us feel like we’re hanging out on the sidewalk with a bunch of new friends. We love it! Come visit us this Tuesday evening, and we’ll make sure you get a signed copy.
Book Signing with Elias Weiss Friedman
The Nashville Humane Association will be in the store for this event to answer your questions about pet adoptions. We will also be collecting items to donate to the Humane Association. You can view their wish list here.
Can’t be there in person? Order your signed copy ahead of time, and we’ll have it autographed for you! Just write “SIGNED” in the notes section at checkout.
Musing 