Dogs and kids. Is there any more magical combination?
How about dogs, kids, and old postcards? These come together in the lovely book, “The Best Dog in the World: Vintage Portraits of Children and Their Dogs,” by Donna Long. Just the darling cover shot of a young girl almost lying on her Cocker Spaniel is enough to make you want to buy it.
But pick it up, and there’s seemingly no end to the wonderful sepia-toned images, dotted with bits of information about some of the children, as well interesting observations about the rising – and falling – popularity of the photographed breeds.
Many of the shots were taken in photographers’ studios in a variety of locations throughout the United States and a few other countries, all in a span of about 30 years – 1890 to 1920. Others show children on porches, in backyards, and standing in the snow – all accompanied by what are clearly beloved friends.
Published by Ten Speed Press, “The Best Dog in the World,” is a book any dog lover will, well, love. It hits stores in April.