Describes an episode in the life of conservationist John Muir when he was stranded on a glacier with a brave dog, Stickeen.

Illustrated stories about dogs that knew how to sit, stay, and witness history—from the loyal Greyfriars Bobby to Lizzie Borden’s Boston Terriers. Most dog lovers know Fido and Laika, but how about Martha, Paul McCartney’s Old English Sheepdog? Or Peritas, Alexander the Great’s trusted canine companion? As long as there have been humans, those humans have had beloved companions—their dogs. From the ancient Egyptians mummifying their pups, to the Indian legend of the king who refused to enter the afterlife unless his dog was allowed there too, to the modern meme and popularity of terms like the corgi sploot, humans are undeniably obsessed with their dogs. Told in short, illustrated essays that are interspersed with both historical and canine factoids, The History of the World in Fifty Dogs brings to life some of history’s most memorable moments through the stories of the dogs that saw them happen.

"Reflections" is a compilation of non-fiction short stories and other non-fiction scribbled reflections of my life.When one picks up a non-fiction book there are certain expectations, the truth is paramount, but the truth is as difficult to grasp as a puff of smoke that wends itself in and out and can never be held; it changes the moment it is released. Although we may sit side by side and experience the same event at the same time, hear the same things, smell the same smells, even feel the same things - in the retelling of the event, your truth and my truth will not be the same except in a general way. Therefore, as an author, I have an obligation to you, my audience, to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth - according to my point of view.

In this remarkable history of the interaction between humans and dogs, Derr looks at the many ways in which people have employed canines as he tracks changes in American culture and society.