A good friend of the author, legendary designer Calvin Klein hosted the event for his pal Glenn Plaskin.

New York City - Last week the gorgeous MacKenzie-Childs Manhattan flagship store on 57th Street was the sight of a very special book release reception about a very exceptional girl, a beautiful blond cocker spaniel named Katie. Published by Hachette Book Group imprint Center Street, "KATIE: Up and Down the Hall" is a special book for both those that have ever loved a dog and those who never have.

In a story that spans almost 15 years, journalist and best selling author Glenn Plaskin shares not only the love affair he had with Katie, but how Katie touched three sets of otherwise disconnected neighbors that were brought together as a single family because of her antics, devotion and infectious personality. Named after one of Plaskin's favorite interview subjects Katharine Hepburn, Katie shared the spunk, tencity, intelligence and dignity of her namesake.

As described in the publisher's abstract, "KATIE: Up and Down the Hall" is the heartwarming story of how five neighbors are brought together by the presence of a remarkable dog. In an increasingly frenetic culture where "real" families are often scattered and relationships strained, this uplifting tale dramatically demonstrates how a surrogate family can become just as close as a biological one. Plaskin, Pearl, and Pearl's husband of 50 years, Arthur, form a profound familial bond that soon blesses all in its sphere, including a three-year-old boy, Ryan, and his single dad, John, who live down the same long hallway. Together, they create a blended family of three generations, each of its members finding the love and connection they're searching for.

McKenzie-Childs partner Howard Cohen with CEO Lee Feldman at their NYC flagship store.

The motherless boy finds a "Granny" in Pearl; his dad, with no parents of his own, inherits a mother; the author discovers a confidante; and Pearl, childless, adopts everyone. At the center of it all is Katie, an astutely intelligent (and mischievous) spaniel with an unforgettable face who becomes a celebrity in her downtown New York neighborhood - making friends with seniors, fellow dogs, even a police horse named Walter. Through her soulful eyes, we witness nearly 15 years of antics and family adventures spanning everything from Hollywood high times to the terrors of 9/11."

With guests announced by a pair of trumpeters standing outside the 57th Street entrance, the MacKenzie-Childs store was the perfect setting for the cocktail party which featured hors d'oeuvres, cupcakes, champagne and special cocktails courtesy of Lake Placid Spirits, whose gluten free potato vodka was quite remarkable.

The quests were as impressive and eclectic as the home goods that mark the iconic MacKenzie-Childs style. Hosted by designer Calvin Klein, guests included best selling author Mary Higgins Clark, Judge Judy Sheindlin, anchorman Ernie Anastos and New York City Police Commissioner Ray Kelly, among others. And yes, Plaskin's new blond cocker spaniel love Lucy had the run of the store and found her way in the arms of almost everyone in attendance.

Just in time for the holidays, "KATIE: Up and Down the Hall" will undoubtedly prove a coveted gift for both young and old alike.