Edward and his large, floppy dog, Paws, enjoy a final walk together in a quiet story about an old, beloved pet’s final days. Paws is tired. “He has run enough.” All he wants to do now is lie in Edward’s cozy bed, dreaming about rabbits. But he gamely accompanies Edward outside, following along at a leisurely pace, resting when Edward stops to talk with friends. Later, at home, Paws does not come when Edward calls and Edward goes to Paws. After offering Edward a final, comforting lick, Paws falls into a “sleep without dreams.” Firmly rooted in Paws’s point of view, this story effortlessly conveys the sense that his life was full and well lived, and that he was devoted to Edward. Edward’s grief is acknowledged even as he continues to spend time with a younger, more energetic Paws in his dreams. Illustrations in deep colors reinforcing the overall comforting sensibility show Edward in unrealistic, and shifting, skin tones. (Ages 4–8)

Paws and Edward are best friends that enjoy each other's company. Edward wants to go out, but his dog Paws wants to stay in and rest, as he becomes more tired and continues to dream of chasing rabbits. Once Paws is gone, Edward is left only dreaming of Paws and the happy times they had together. This story of loss and love is accentuated by the illustrations that show Paws falling into deeper exhaustion and Edward feeling empty after the loss of Paws.

2020 USBBY Outstanding International Books List, Best Picture Books of 2019 List – Kirkus Reviews. 2020 USBBY Outstanding International Books List.

Author and illustrator live in Norway. In addition to writing, Espen Dekko has worked as a puppeteer and theatrical director.

Norway. Originally published in Norwegian as P+E by Magikon forlag in 2017. English translation by Kids Can Press published by Kids Can Press (Toronto) in 2019.