Over the Counter #116

What books caught my eye this week as they passed over my library counter and under the scanner?

 

First up was Things Your Dog Doesn't Want You to Know by Hy Conrad and Jeff Johnson.

 

From the publisher, Sourcebooks:

 

"Dear Human:  Your dog probably puzzles you. Most of us do that. And most of us would like to keep things as they are: humans in the dark, dogs with the upper hand. But we dogs are about to let you in a little secret. Okay, a lot of secrets.

• We graduated first in our obedience class three times. This should tell you something.
• Puppies know that they're being cute. They're using you.
• We don't sound anything like those silly voices you use to imitate us.
• We hate those ridiculous names you give some of us. Moonbeam is not a dignified name for a mutt. You might want to check your herb garden for fertilizer.
• We are only wearing this stupid birthday hat so we can get some cake. No self-respecting dog cares about his birthday.
• We are not spoiled, certainly not in comparison to teenage girls.
• We are in charge of the house. We let you pretend that you are.
• We'd be lost without you. We love you.

It's all in our new book, Things Your Dog Doesn't Want You To Know, as told to humans Hy Conrad and Jeff Johnson. Even Steve Martin (yes, THAT Steve Martin) raves about us! Inside you'll find revelations such as the reason we at the sofa (leather tastes very similar to rawhide), and what we really think of the costumes you dress us up in. I'm not alone. Ten other courageous canines have stepped forward to tell you what your dog won't – every last dirty, hairy bit of it. If you have dogs, love dogs, or have ever been baffled by a dog, this book is a must-have."


Not a dog person? Well, what about this offering? Knit Your Own Cat by Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne.

From the publisher, Black Dog and Leventhal:

"Why is a company called Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers publishing a book on cats, you ask? Well, after the marvelous success and universal praise for the bestseller Knit Your Own Dog, we were irresistibly compelled to follow-up with the same authors Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne to publish Knit Your Own Cat.

Offering step-by-step knitting patterns for 16 breeds, Knit Your Own Cat teaches you to create the most adorable and cuddly cat; the one you’ve always wanted—one that doesn’t need feeding or vet visits. Guaranteed not to shed or scratch up your couch, or your money back! The patterns are easy-to-follow for both new and veteran knitters. A covetable companion for life can be created in just a few evenings, and yet each pattern is extremely detailed, and includes all of the distinguishing features of each breed. The cats can be knit into various positions such as standing, sitting, crouching, and curled up for a nap.

Cats include: *Abyssinian *Maine Coon *Bengal *Orange *Black Cat *Persian *Black & White       *Ragdoll *British Shorthair *Siamese *Burmese *Tabby *Devon Rex *Tortoiseshell *Kitten       Beautiful color photographs of the finished cats, as well as detail shows, both inspire and instruct. Accompanying the patterns are expert tips on choosing yarns, stuffing and sewing the cats, and adding personality (and collars, bells, and bows!) to your creation."


(Over the Counter is a regular feature at A Bookworm's World. I've sadly come the realization that I cannot physically read every book that catches my interest as it crosses over my counter at the library. But... I can mention them and maybe one of them will catch your eye as well. See if your local library has them on their shelves!)