Publisher's Synopsis
For decades, pit bulls have been demonised by society and portrayed as hellhounds. They've become the most feared, hated and abused of all companion animals. Some cities and, even entire countries, ban them while the media persist in associating them with viciousness. This unjust reputation has sealed the fate of millions of dogs who face prejudice around the world and languish in shelters, where they are the mostly put down. Since 2014, French photographer, Sophie Gamand, has been composing portraits of adoptable pit bulls from more than thirty shelters and rescue centres throughout the United States. Many have been waiting for years for a home. Adorning her models with handmade flower-crowns, Gamand tells each dog's story and celebrates their inherent personality, vulnerability and individuality. Posted and shared widely on social media, the portraits - at once charming, candid and deeply affecting - have not only led to hundreds of dogs finding loving, forever homes, but have, also, spurred efforts to destigmatise an animal whose reputation for violence says more about us than it does the character of the dogs themselves. Full of moving, honest and inspiring stories of individual dogs and their lives (and deaths), PIT BULL FLOWER POWER presents a vivid, beautifully composed cross-section of Gamand's extraordinary work. The book, also, serves as a testament to the caring people who work in animal rescue, the passion and dedication of those who provide homes for these animals and the dignity, forbearance and love of these dogs who are at the mercy of humans.
