Chewed

Photographers Anne Svenson and Ron Warren – co-authors of the popular Sock Monkeys – here turn their attention to those masses of slobbered-over yarn, remnants and stuffing that ordinarily go the way of all pet toy casualties and get discarded without a second glance. Before their lenses, once-plush cuddly creatures and formerly bouncy rubber toys are transformed into intriguing eyeless, armless, one-legged sculptures – snatched from the jaws, of so to speak, oblivion. A headless bunny rabbit, mutated plastic rat, masticated rubber hotdog or donut – each is a beloved pet’s dream companion transfigured by the sharp teeth and powerful jaws of the overinfatuated animal. Svenson and Warren have photographed the chewed victims in a formal yet irreverent style appropriate to the perspective of the pet; the result is a humorous appraisal of beauty, devotion and contentment. With 138 full-color photographs, CHEWED includes delightful twisted and poignant short stories by a variety of contributors writing about their favorite chewed creature. 160p.