A charming first edition of The Dog Book, published in 1932 by The Saalfield Publishing Company of Akron, Ohio and New York. Written by noted dog author Albert Payson Terhune in collaboration with acclaimed animal illustrator Diana Thorne, the book offers a series of engaging profiles devoted to popular dog breeds of the period. It was Terhune’s first juvenile book and the second collaboration between the two creators.
The volume covers breeds including the Collie, German Shepherd/Police Dog, Setter, Scottish Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, Husky, Boston Terrier, Irish Terrier, Great Dane, Sealyham, Wire-Haired Fox Terrier, Cairn Terrier, and Airedale. A particular highlight is Thorne’s artwork, with 12 full-page color plates illustrating the various breeds in her distinctive style.
This example retains its attractive pictorial boards, featuring a seated German Shepherd against a muted green background, with a beige cloth spine lettered The Dog Book. The binding shows visible age-appropriate wear, including rubbing, edge and corner wear, and light surface soiling, while preserving the appealing original cover illustration and strong period character.
Measuring approximately 12¼ × 9¼ inches and comprising 89 pages, the book has substantial visual presence and works especially well as both a display piece and a collectible volume.
A desirable addition for collectors of vintage dog books, canine illustration, Diana Thorne artwork, Albert Payson Terhune, or early twentieth-century illustrated books.
Details: The Dog Book • Diana Thorne & Albert Payson Terhune • The Saalfield Publishing Company • Akron, Ohio / New York • 1932 First Edition • Hardcover • 89 pages • 12 full-page color illustrations by Diana Thorne.