Some people think that dogs do little beyond wander and scavenge.
Perhaps you agree. Some think that dogs do not wonder and ponder. They surely agree that dogs cannot make plans. And they certainly conclude that dogs cannot play tricks. But I know a dog who can.
Anansi comes from a land where dogs are very important. They have their own beds, their own dishes, their own clothes, their own toys, their own doctors, and their own shops. They have their own parks, where they are free to run and play with other dogs.
They live inside houses; they travel in cars, on trains, even in aeroplanes. These dogs are bathed with sweet soaps. Their hairs are brushed until they shine. Their teeth are scrubbed to shiny white.
These dogs compete in contests to decide which is the most beautiful in the land. These contests happen in hotels and conference centers. In these contests, the dogs strut and preen. They show off their skills and their loveliness.
Judges give scores. They choose the most beautiful and talented dog. There are so many kinds of dogs of so many sizes and so many colors. There are large dogs, as big as a calf.
There are small dogs, as tiny as a kitten. There are many sizes in between. That is where Anansi is. Anansi is in between, a middle-sized dog, even a bit smaller than most middle-sized dogs.
There are white dogs and brown dogs, red dogs and yellow dogs. There are spotted dogs, and dogs of many colors. Anansi has one color only. Anansi is pure black. Anansi is shiny black, and just a bit smaller than medium-sized.
Dogs can have eyes that differ in color as well. The eyes can be brown, black, tan, yellow, green, blue, and even white. Anansi’s eyes are rich brown, chocolate brown. Anansi is pure black with chocolate brown eyes.
Anansi is a trickster, a tricky dog who can think, and plan, and ponder. Maybe you doubt me. I will tell you amazing stories, so perhaps you will believe.
Come back here next week. I will tell you stories of the trickster Anansi. You will be amazed, even if you do not believe.
