The Zen of Zelda

Why are bulldogs the dog of preference for so many owners? -- Check any large city out. Why are bulldogs used so disproportionately in greeting cards, TV and poster ads, and even special situations to give a business an amusing flair? Let's face it, there is something in funny-looking canines that appeals to the human spirit. Dachshunds and basset hounds have a special appeal too: witness Hush Puppies. But bulldogs? They are so ugly, but in an amusing way; they are beautiful. Add all of this to their lovable personalities and we can understand how they are extra special. Through a three-part series of pictures -- Dog-mas, Truths, Enlightenment -- the authors, owners of Zelda the bulldog, try to bring us to Nirvana. But let us not get too serious: straight through, the book consists of pictures of Zelda dressed amusingly and/or in amusing situations, accompanied by a witticism. The authors state they searched for Zen truth but could not find it -- until they found it in laughter and laughing at oneself, at the core of their Zen. But don't laugh, they have been successful, for Zelda is a celebrity in America. Maybe they should just moderate their message to a bit of the specific: The meaning of life is best found in humor and the lovability of bulldogs.

The Dalai Lama himself could learn a few things from Zelda. . . I laughed out loud and couldn't put it down until I'd seen every photo-- Zelda is truly a remarkable dog and role model, and has something for everyone.

Every photo vignette is just fabulous! A brilliant collection. Here is a message for the BIG Z: Your new book, so full of ZEN. Outstanding, it rates a TEN! Arlene Millman, author of BOOMERANG - A MIRACLE TRILOGY (The tale of a remarkable Boston Terrier).