“Whether you show a dog every weekend or just watch the Westminster Kennel Club on television each year, Bo Bengtson's Best in Show is a must-read to help you enjoy and understand the world of dog shows even more.”
— David Frei, co-host of The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on USA Network
“Given Bo Bengtson's encyclopaedic knowledge of dogs, mixed with his own involvement over many years crossing several continents, I eagerly anticipated seeing his new book. It surpasses anything I imagined; a truly wonderful book in which the breadth of coverage of both the past and present is awe-inspiring. And it is fun and easy to read.”
— Ferelith Somerfield, breeder, Crufts Best in Show judge, and canine journalist
“An astonishing accomplishment! . . . Best in Show [is] the most comprehensive history of our sport ever written. It deserves a place on every dog fancier's bookshelf. “
— Peter Green, professional handler and judge
“At long last a factual and meticulously researched history of the purebred dog scene around the world. It's an everything-you-ever-wanted-to-know book about the fascinating world of show dogs. . . . And who better to have written it than Bo Bengtson, who has traveled the world successfully experiencing practically every facet of the dog world's vast array of opportunities and challenges.”
— Richard G. Beauchamp, breeder, exhibitor, judge, and dog writer
“What incredible good fortune, for the dog world, to have someone with Bo Bengtson's enthusiasm, passion, intelligence—not to mention his research and writing skills—take on this monumental task. The result is a must-read for dog lovers, breeders, judges, and historians alike.”
— Bill McFadden, handler and breeder
“To every endeavor under the sun, each generation is given a gift of greatness . . . and Bo Bengtson is the greatest living dog writer of our times. . . . Bengtson's work will be discussed, shared, and quoted for years to come. . . . This book deserves a quiet nook, a glass of wine, and a favorite dog curled by your feet. . . . Everyone who considers themselves a dog aficionado simply must have this book. . . . Best in Show is a gottahaveit.”
— Kerrin Winter-Churchill, president of Alliance of Purebred Dog Writers
“[This book] provides a definitive picture of how the modern purebred was shaped by kennel clubs and dog shows. Historical persepctive … offers surprising revelations about the satate of the game today. No one is better prepared to present this complex subject than Bo Bengtson. This book is a gift to the dog world precisely when it is needed most.”
—Amy Fernandez, artist, author, breeder, and president of Dog Writers Association of America
“Based in large part on the author’s nearly 50 years’ participation in the sport, Best in Show details the joys and the disappointments that invariably accompany success in this complex but ultimately rewarding hobby of breeding and keeping those beautiful dogs that ultimately end up in the show ring.
—Gretchen Bernardi, judge and AKC delegate, breeder and author.
“This engrossing volume packs a wallop in its relatively compact size…Whether you’re a veteran competitor, short-term fancier or just want a good fireside read, this is a classic and indispensable book.”
— Dogs in Canada, July 2008
“This book simply “does not quit”.” …it is doubtful any superlatives are left to use in its description. …close your eyes, let the pages fall open and read from the middle to both ends…it really doesn’t make any difference how you face the music, because the symphony is always there… What makes Best in Show a best buy is the broad-spectrum appeal it will have to all readers, regardless of discipline. …with over 700 images covering almost as many pages, Best in Show will keep you treasure hunting for years.”
— Canadian Dog Digest, June 2008
“[Best in Show] contents with text and illustrations are simply overwhelming: a work of diligence, which in this form can most likely only result from such an expert and connoisseur of the scene as Bo Bengtson. … this fantastic book is a reference work for all active dog people, who will return to it again and again.
— Euro Pudel, summer 2008
“When I first heard about the project, I questioned whether or not it was even possible. Happily, it was more than possible. This book is a masterpiece. … presents every aspect of purebred evolution and evaluation from multiple perspectives. … bring legendary dogs and their breeders, handlers and admirers to life with astonishing detail and hundreds of rare photos. … Best in Show is a much-needed reminder of how and why fanciers are here, and should be required reading for every dog owner.” — Dog World (U.S.), August 2008
“An amazing collection of images and comprehensive history of the world of show dogs condensed into more than 650 pages in some 13 chapters. This book is an absolute “must have” for anyone with an interest in dog shows and show dogs, be they an aficionado or casual spectator to the sport. … beautifully presented piece of art. … it is the type of book that can be picked up and read on any occasion, dipped in and dipped out of. That is, if you can manage to put it down, a compelling read that will entertain, amuse and quench anyone’s thirst for knowledge. … As good as it gets this virtual Best in Show, the crème de la crème, is a real winner!”
— Our Dogs (UK), March 28, 2008
"Bo Bengtson has covered the world of the dog show with his usual élan.
Bo is a gifted writer who has brought much to the dog fancy, and his classic book, Best in Show, presents an in-depth history of dog shows as well as a perceptive look into contemporary events. This one is a must read!"
— Patricia Craige Trotter, author of Born to Win, AKC Judge, and Norwegian Elkhound Breeder |