We have an office/home dog, Zoe, a golden retriever who is a member of the BuzzFlash family. And that's what this great pop-sociology book is about, how dogs have moved from pets to members of the family. In a transient society, they are anchors of completely undemanding love and loyalty, and they even facilitate meeting other members of our "human" community.

"One Nation Under Dog" is for anyone who loves dogs and is curious about their role in modern America, which has evolved considerably in so many ways since the Fido days of the '50s -- even their names have become more human-like.

We heard the author interviewed on Terry Gross's Show (NPR) and became just fascinated with the book.

It's about our wild love affair with all things canine, and how it reflects upon us.

"Informative, entertaining.... As the man says in this terrific book, it's not about the dogs, it's about the people."—Jonathan Yardley, The Washington Post

"A Fast Food Nation for dog lovers, this astute and amusing investigative report offers a ‘journey into the $41-billion-a-year world of the modern American pet.’… Reminiscent of Tom Wolfe's New Journalism essays on the sociology of pop culture.… Essential reading for anyone whose dog has become hooked on Kong bounce balls."—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“Combines research and great … anecdotes for … sociological insight into the obsessive world of dog ownership.”—Philadelphia Magazine

"Doggone entertaining."—Kirkus Reviews

“What makes this book so great is that it neither preaches nor rationalizes - it just explains…. He alternates easily between research and laugh-out-loud tales of his runty St. Bernard, Murphy, and cat, Amelia. And with a historical sweep, he shows us how we got to this place. Ultimately, One Nation Under Dog is not about our pets - but about ourselves.” —The Florida Times-Union (Jacksonville)

“In the wake of Marley mania… Schaffer explores the rapidly expanding dimensions of America's pet mania - Mr. President, a must-read before you pick the pup!”—Carlin Romano, Philadelphia Inquirer

"A surprising, often hilarious view of the American pet scene."—Star-News (Wilmington, NC)

Buy more progessive premiums to support BuzzFlash progressive news and commentary (we accept no advertising, corporate or otherwise to maintain our complete independence)by going to The BuzzFlash Progressive Marketplace.