Blue Dog: Limited Edition

by George Rodrigue, Lawrence S. Freundlich

How did Tiffany, George Rodrigue's beloved pet, become the Blue Dog? What secrets lie behind her soulful golden eyes? And why has this tale about a dog, her master, and his paintings inspired millions? STC's long-awaited reprint of Rodrigue's original Blue Dog book reveals the answers.Through vibrant paintings, Rodrigue dramatizes Tiffany's transformation from a frisky -- and white-furred -- terrier/spaniel to Blue Dog. In the process, he illustrates the back and forth of both man and beast as they strive for true communication -- a level of understanding that goes far beyond their differences. The text gives voice to Tiffany as well as George, and the terrier/spaniel's sharp, sophisticated sense of humor provides a completely unique perspective on the nature of love, art, and human behavior. Joyous and moving, Blue Dog is a must for any fan of Rodrigue's sublime canine companion.

Genres: Art, Dogs

96 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first saw this book in a library I worked at in our children's picture book section. It never got read as it wasn't a children's book. But I never had a chance to read it before it vanished. 23 years later, I have rediscovered the book I wanted to so much read- and am happy I did! Having suffered a few beloved pets deaths, I think I've rediscovered the book at just the right time. It's a wonderful story and I love the paintings! Comforting tale of loss and re-finding.

[Azabu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Texan art collector Don Sanders shares his impressive trove of work by the late Louisiana painter George Rodrigue in this hefty, four-color celebration that makes a convincing case for pet advocacy. Much is made of the ‘Blue Dog’ series, which was introduced in 1984 with the Bayou Collection. Rodrigue used his beloved pet as a model for the soulful-faced interpretation of a “loup-garou” --Cajun ghost dog of legend that comes out by night. Familiar to Louisiana natives with his appealing gaze, the doleful Blue Dog captured the fancy of Sanders, a passionate animal lover and founder of a no-kill animal shelter in Houston. (Sanders admits to owning seven cats and two dogs.)

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

"To find her you must lose her. The Blue Dog knows the way."

George Rodrigue's beloved terrier/spaniel mix, Tiffany, became his muse and his spirit guide after she died. Tiffany and her master found peace over time through his paintings of Blue Dog.

[Kimberly Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

♥ When George Rodrigue's Dog passed he was at a deep abyss of loss... then she returned and he began to paint her......

[Kasia]

We don’t deserve dogs.

[Averi Carroll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saw it in the library and was intrigued by its cover. An incredibly sweet story of how art can be used to process grief and loss along with beautiful paintings of the lost dog.

[Akilah Mantock · Rating 4 out of 5]

My mum passed this book on to me years ago, and while Ive always read it when I felt down, I never really understood it until I read it just now

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have owned this book since 1995,a gift from an old boyfriend, and have packed it up and moved it too many times to recall. I finally took 20 minutes to read it today. I am a huge fan of Rodrigue, but I suppose I never wanted to be disappointed by this book. I figured nearly 17 years was long enough to wait. The art is amazing. Really like how the narrative unfolds. My one complaint is the repetition that occurs in both Tiffany and George's tellings. Rodrigue's philosophy about love and grace is pretty clear; would have made more of an impact had the narrative been tighter. Especially love Tiffany and the rabbits.

[Asia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting book, it wasn't what I expected at all. There were a lot of very poignant moments that I thought were even more beautiful than the paintings, but I was a bit put off by the way the book became very god-centered towards the end. Apart from that it was a very interesting and quick read. something I reccommend to those who like animals.

[Joanne · Rating 2 out of 5]

Kind of an "art" book with many of Rodrigue's throughout. Interesting banter between the voice of the artist and the voice of Blue Dog. A man/dog love story - but who, in the end, is really the "master"?

[Skyqueen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Years ago when I found out about this book, I had to have it. It is very personal to me & I cherish it.