Behind the Scenes of Best in Show

"A masterful job of compiling stories and insights from some of the most successful professionals in the sport of dogs... an entertaining, informative, and inspiring book for dog lovers at all levels of involvement and experience."

- DONALD STURZ, PRESIDENT OF WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB

About Kelly

Kelly Lyn Marquis received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of New Hampshire and has been involved in the dog show handling industry for most of her life. Since becoming a professional handler, Kelly has achieved some of the highest awards in the industry. In addition to writing and showing dogs, she operates Winall Coaching, helps goal-oriented individuals reach their desired potential, and hosts handling workshops for owner-handlers who share a passion for dogs, showmanship, and excellence.

Endorsements

Reviews and honest perspectives from industry leaders and readers from all walks of life.

"…an entertaining, informative, and inspiring book for dog lovers at all levels of involvement and experience."

Donald Sturz
President, Westminster Kennel Club

"Finally, a look backstage at the fascinating world of dog shows!  This is a pure gem for the millions of folks who watch dog shows on TV or who are lucky enough to attend in person.  Kelly’s innate ability to explore the lives of key dog handlers – both past and present – exposes what really goes on behind the scenes of a Best in Show.”

Wayne Ferguson
President, Kennel Club of Philadelphia, and President, Morris and Essex Kennel Club

"I have read a multitude of dog books, but never one so comprehensive, illuminating, and entertaining. Behind the Scenes of Best in Show digs to the very core of the sport. It features some of the stars of today, but also brings to life the architects and immortals of purebred dogs… and does it in such a humane and down-to-earth way as to be of interest and enlightening to the casual observer, professional handler, judge or the most accomplished breeder."

Joe Purkhiser
Col., USAF (Retired), AKC All-Breed Judge

"Kelly has expertly taken the reader into the lives and psyche of the great men and women in our sport.  If they sound like world-class athletic coaches, it’s because they are!  When the masters of our conformation world share their stories, it is both educational and entertaining at the same time.  A good read."

Patricia Craige Trotter
AKC All-Breed Judge, Author of Born to Win, Breed to Succeed, Breeder/Owner-Handler

"In Behind the Scenes of Best in Show, Kelly Lyn Marquis offers an uncommon glimpse at the unseen moments that take place before, during and after every show. Each interview and every story reveals the kind of intimacy that not only encourages insecure dogs to become confident champions but also inspires talented handlers to dig deep and become even better versions of themselves."

Dan Sayers
Editor of Showsight Magazine

"Kelly masterfully shares her own deep experience in dogs and weaves the stories of the “Masters” into a full open-curtain reveal of the joyful yet excruciating complexity and commitment required to succeed at the highest level.  This book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the depth, dedication, and passion behind dog handlers’ polished exteriors.  (This book) brings new meaning to words ‘commitment” and ‘dedication,’ previously not understood by the average exhibitor."

Lee Whittier
Founder, The Dog Show Mentor

"It is difficult for an author to write a book that has something for everyone, but Kelly Marquis has done it!  Behind the Scenes of Best in Show is a how-to manual and dog show history book rolled into one interesting read.  No matter your level of experience or interest in the sport of purebred dogs, you’ll come away with a bit more knowledge and understanding of the sport after reading this book."

Tom Grabe
Publisher, The Canine Chronicle

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