1959 "First Edition" stated on copyright page; E.P. Dutton & Co. publishers, New York; smaller hardbound; very good condition with unmarked pages; slight browning to edges of pages; inside front cover has previous owner's name and stain - see pic; no dust jacket.
 
Description -
Carl Lamson Carmer (October 16, 1893 - September 11, 1976) was an American author of nonfiction books, memoirs, and novels, many of which focused on Americana such as myths, folklore, and tales. His most famous book, Stars Fell on Alabama, was an autobiographical story of the time he spent living in Alabama. He was considered one of America's most popular writers during the 1940s and 1950s. He became an assistant editor at Vanity Fair. In his later years, Carmer would work as a folklore consultant for Walt Disney Productions and produce a folklore radio series called "Your Neck o' the Woods." He also produced four albums of regional songs. In all, Carmer wrote 37 books. An oblique look at American history, the title of this book is self-explanatory. The presidents of the United States are considered in terms of the animals they have kept as pets. The mockingbird of the Madisons, Roosevelt's Fala, McKinley's vast menagerie, President Truman's somewhat uninspiring dog, all these pets are introduced here by way of giving the reader a more human and informal portrait of ten Presidents. The unpretentious dog, horse and parrot are among the wide variety of tame animals who kept the celebrated company of our country's leaders. Carmer relates the fascinating stories of the favorite pets of ten Presidents and their families. Here are the behind-the-scene glimpses of Martha Washington riding her horse up and down the stairs of a sedate house.Tad Lincoln driving a herd of goats through the East Room of the executive mansion.Thomas Jefferson feeding his mocking-bird.Zack Taylor's horse, "Old Whitey," upsetting a dignified parade. The tales are arranged chronologically and each is set against a background of the historical events of the period.