Tomie’s publisher asked Tomie if he would be willing to create artwork for an illustrated edition of MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, by Valentine Davies. First, a movie. Then, a book. And next, an illustrated storybook. Tomie was happy to be asked, but Valentine Davies’ widow needed to give her approval. It was arranged that they would meet at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at Madison Square Garden in NYC. Mrs. Davies was a breeder of Ibizan hounds. We wandered around looking at dogs. Our attraction to Irish wolfhounds was dampened when learning that their long tails could clear coffee tables as they passed, and their life expectancy was short. Tomie “offended” an Airedale terrier breeder when he commented that the Airedales looked small. (Tomie’s family had an Airedale.) Mrs. Davies and Tomie hit if off and his illustrated edition of MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET was published in 1984. She offered to give him an Ibizan hound puppy, but he declined. He confided, “I’m not going to own a dog that is thinner than I am.” Wise words to live by. (Bob) Pray for Peace, Justice, and Equality
