Woof

Starred review from October 10, 2005
Many of these pictures will make you smile, and some will make you laugh, but this is more than just a collection of cute doggie pix. They are portraits in the full sense of the word: whether posed or impromptu, each image reveals something true about a particular dog or about dogs in general. Erwitt, a veteran photographer and member of Magnum, offers simple truths: "Living with a dog is messy"; "A dog teaches a boy fidelity." His pooches, in all shapes and sizes, are pensive and playful, reflective and active; they zestfully leap into a lake or lie belly up in a grassy field, enjoying a lovely day. Unlike William Wegman's dog photos, Erwitt's don't rely on props or costumes, though two supercool Dalmatians in goggles do make an arresting pair. Even if you're not a dedicated dog lover, this book will charm you. Woof!