Marc Joseph: American Pitbull - Softcover

James Frey; Cory Reynolds

Softcover

ISBN 10: 3865210945 ISBN 13: 9783865210944

Publisher: Steidl, 2005

Synopsis

In this large, abundantly illustrated volume, Joseph attempts to document the American Pitbull Terrier as owned throughout the country. What emerges, however, is a single-sided, often stereotypical view of the pitbull owners themselves--a portrait that is nevertheless evocatively captured. The opening two-page spread shows a close up of a young man from Liberty, Tex., proudly baring his gold teeth and his pitbull ring; an American flag hangs above him. Subsequent photos show pitbulls tied up in back yards or being held by their tattooed owners (men and women; black, white and Latino). Joseph offers a glimpse into an East Village apartment in New York City, then turns his attention to a hangar where pitbull brick-pulling competitions are held. Only in Frey's essay, which narrates the author's search for a pitbull pup, does the stereotypical view of pitbulls as ferocious and strong begin to be challenged.

About this title

Synopsis:

The American Pit Bull Terrier is one of the most maligned breeds of dog, especially in recent years, with sensational media reports of violence and viciousness. But pit bull people - old-timers, breeders and owners - have long shown the dogs fanatical devotion, establishing an entire culture around them. It is these people and their pets that have captured Marc Joseph's gaze over the past two years. American Pit Bull offers an alternative view of a controversial world. Travelling across America to visit his subjects in their backyards and homes, at dog shows, wild hog hunting events and weight-pulling competitions, Joseph has been granted unprecedented access to a culture known by few outside its own community and law enforcement agencies. There are the few remaining old-time dog men and they there are the rap stars and ghetto kids for whom owning a pit bull has become de rigueur. There are the regular folks, all across the country, whose pet pit bulls form an integral part of their family. And there are the pit bull owners in Europe and Asia, for whom the breed has attained a mythic, cult-like status.

About this edition

• Publisher: Steidl
• Publication date: 2005
• ISBN 10: 3865210945
• ISBN 13: 9783865210944
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 248