Dog-Eared: Mutts 9 (Mutts)

Patrick McDonnell possesses an elegance of line and narrative that both transcends and defines his medium. His artistry is in his Zen-like clarity, his simple direct address, and his unique understanding of the essential animal-human continuum. When one experiences "MUTTS," one experiences genius." -Alice Sebold, author of "The Lovely Bones" ""Dog-Eared""is exactly what this latest collection from cartoonist Patrick McDonnell is destined to become. The brilliant assortment of simple-yet-complex strips will have readers turning its pages again and again, eager to revisit the charm, truth, and humor found within. McDonnell's strip, highlights the adventures of Earl the dog and Mooch the cat, best buddies who regularly come in contact with Shtinky Puddin', Sourpuss, Guard Dog, and Crabby-as well as an assortment of whimsically rendered humans. This cast is capable of endless antics, interspersed with poignant views on both the animal and human condition. And whether they're raiding garbage cans or basking in full-frontal belly rubs, Mooch and Earl always have a comment to clinch the scene. "MUTTS" is the kind of strip that comic readers find irresistible. ""Dog-Eared"" is the same kind of collection. One strip leads to another, and before you know it you've turned page after dog-eared page to satisfy a growing "MUTTS" addiction.