Patrick McDonnell’s new book, titled Darling, I Love You: Poems from the Hearts of Our Glorious Mutts and All Our Animal Friends, is a collection of poetry and illustrations honoring the animal-human bond.

It’s also a collaboration — the first ever — between Patrick and internationally acclaimed poet Daniel Ladinsky, widely known for his interpretations of Hafiz, Rumi, and other mystic poets. Daniel’s other books include The GiftI Heard God Laughing, and Love Poems from God.

Darling, I Love You features selections from Daniel’s thousands of original, unique haiku, alongside drawings of Patrick’s beloved MUTTS characters. These perfectly sweet pairings are sure to tug at the tender emotions of anyone who knows what it’s like to love and be loved by an animal.

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In a recent Washington Post article titled “Poetry as Solace and Social Commentary,” columnist Elizabeth Lund writes: “Pet owners will chuckle knowingly about the way the speakers shift between simple observations — ‘sometimes all you need/ is a friend who won’t/ question you’ — and deeper statements, such as ‘greet yourself/ in your thousand/ other forms’ that reminds us why humans need animals as much as they need us.”

Darling, I Love You has also received praise from Modern Dog Magazine, PETA, 5 Minutes for Mom, and Bustle.

Released just in time for Valentine’s Day, Darling, I Love You makes a great gift for a friend or spouse, oneself, or even, of course, your beloved pet. Visit the MUTTS Shop to purchase your copy today!

Want to hear about the creative collaboration between Daniel and Patrick? You’re in luck! They’ll be speaking about their work at an event in Princeton, NJ on February 26. Visit our Facebook page to RSVP and read more.

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