If Only You Knew How Much I Smell You

Who hasn't looked into a dog's eyes and wondered what thoughts he is trying to express? The answers are in this whimsical book of more than 50 doggy countenances evoking their innermost thoughts. Roy Blount's verses - written from the dog's point of view - give the meaning of the quizzical expressions and penetrating looks that Valerie Shaff's camera catches. These dogs articulate their most ardent wishes, their true opinions of their owners and their particularly canine expressions of love. From adorable Dalmatian pups to mournful hounds to soulful setters, each dog describes the befuddles, heartbreak and the simple joys of dog life: a good stick, forbidden chicken bones, fetching, barking and, of course, sniffing. Until dogs learn to talk, this may be the best way to remember that the "inner dog" is probably a lot like the outer one.