At least three poodles — two gray, one black — were in attendance and wearing their party manners as first-time author Wendy Wahman read her new picture book, “Don’t Lick the Dog” at a book-launch party Saturday night at Parkplace Books in Kirkland.
“It was a festive evening, with wine, cheese, brownies and plenty of mingling among the attendees — many of whom were Wahman’s colleagues from the late, lamented Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
In addition to assorted small children, guests included Kitty the Portuguese water dog, Smithers the Australian shepherd (who practically grew up at the P-I alongside artist Andrew Saeger), a mellow Golden Retriever (aren’t they all?) and a big, black Reading With Rover dog.
”If local illustrator and author Wendy Wahman took one of those online tests that reveal what breed of dog a person most resembles, she would surely be deemed a standard poodle. She is tall, smart and regal, with an engaging, welcoming smile. She even sports the requisite topknot of soft ringlets. And it’s a good thing that Wahman seems akin to poodles, since her family consists of three of them, along with two cats and a husband.
“Andy’s dark eyes are alluring, and his toussled gray curls emit pure animal magnetism. It’s tempting to reach out and give the guy a pat on his fluffy head. Then you remember Wendy Wahman’s playful admonition in “Don’t Lick the Dog: Making Friends With Dogs.” “Whap! Whap! Whap! Dogs hate that! Stand still and let dogs come to you to smell your hand or sniff your shoe.” Point taken.”
Thank you Cecelia!
