Sleeping with the Beast

Sleeping With the Beast is not just another pretty book filled with pictures of dogs and owners romping in the fields. It is about a New England family that just happens to be comprised of a couple with two sons and five dogs—all cohabitating in one large farmhouse. Dale Ryan invites us into her home for a close-up view of what it's like to live with dogs. This is a rather intimate book about dogs and their human partners. Furthermore, the book touches on legal, moral, and philosophical issues that confront our diversified families. The author also describes how dogs should be regarded not as twenty-first-century accessories, but should be respected for their multidimensional character. The term "beast" is used here in the most affectionate way. In a sense we are all beasts, whether two- or four-legged. Gorgeously illustrated with four-color photographs of Dale and her family—especially the dogs.

Dale Ryan has studied art and design and has a Bachelor of Science in art education. She has been working on projects ranging from dog shelters, schools, and sustainable, local foods for hospitals. She lives in Connecticut with her family.