Desiderata for Dog Lovers: A Guide to Life & Happiness

by Max Ehrmann

Man’s best friend has always been a source of comfort and calm for owners—and that makes the combination of dogs and Desiderata such a superb match. Each phrase in the poem receives just the right accompanying image: a black Lab resting quietly on the beach illustrates “and remember what peace there may be in silence.” A cute mutt with its face cocked to the side—as if concentrating on a conversation—demonstrates what it means to “listen to others.” A pair consisting of one large and one small doggie reveals the truth that: “For always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.” Every dog lover will be charmed.

Genres: Animals, Dogs

72 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2007

About the author

Max Ehrmann (September 26, 1872 - September 9, 1945), an attorney from Indiana, was best known for writing the prose poem "Desiderata" (Latin: "things desired as essential") in 1927.

Ehrmann, who was of German descent, received a degree in English from DePauw University, followed by a degree in Philosophy from Harvard University. He then returned to his hometown of Terre Haute, Indiana to practice law. Eventually this led him to work in his family's meatpacking business and in the overalls manufacturing industry. Finally at the age of 41, Ehrmann decided to forget such work and become a writer. At the age of 55 he wrote Desiderata, which achieved fame only after his death

Reviews

[Dawn Kravagna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful gift book. The poem is lovingly illustrated with great dog photos. Any dog lover would love this book. I just reread it this morning before giving it to a woman struggling with many problems. Anyone can benefit from meditating on this wonderful poem, highlighted line by line.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful!

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happiness is so simply explained in this book/poem and the dog pictures are adorable.

[Kendra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read May 26, 2008
Re-read March 22, 2015

Beautiful poem, with dog pictures. Quick to read though.

[PastAllReason · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, so it's the Desiderata. You know what you're getting. But this one comes with pictures of dogs! One pic for each line, and there are several of corgis.

[Kandrea Cheney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute little book with pictures of dogs that go along with the words of Max Ehrmann's poem, Desiderata (desired thing).

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's the Desiderata with pictures of cute doggies. A brief, delightful respite.