thinks Paws.
And the birds? And the other dogs?
Edward has found the stick.
"Are you tired, Paws?"
It feels good to lie in the grass.
Together with Edward.
Paws has walked and walked.
His paws are heavy.
Paws doesn't have to walk anymore."
Paws and Edward are inseparable. Edward has all the energy that young children exhibit. Paws, his aged companion, has seen more sprightly days. Paws love to stay inside to sleep and dream; Edward likes getting outside to enjoy the weather and a walk. Paws loves Edward and wants to do what makes him happy.
Although he would rather be cuddling up beside Edward and his book, Paws goes for the walk to ensure Edward enjoys the benefits of fresh air and exercise.
"It's chilly outside.
Paws knows where they're headed.
His pace is nice and easy.
Paws doesn't feel the urge to run anymore.
He has run enough."
It is not an easy undertaking for an old dog. One morning when Edward calls for Paws, there is no response. Edward discovers that Paws has fallen into a dreamless sleep, and will not wake up. Edward is awash in the grief that comes when a best friend is no longer there to share space and time. He walks without Paws and finds himself lying on the park bench where they spent so much time. Everything else is the same; there is no Paws. On a final spread, Edward dreams of Paws in a place where he is happy, and energetic as he once was.
Gently acknowledging that heartbreak is inevitable when a much loved pet is lost, this book will provide comfort to those children who must deal with such loss. Written from the dog's perspective, they will more easily acknowledge that Paws is just too tired to go on, and wants only to sleep and dream on Edward's bed. The illustrations effectively convey the emotions felt by both Paws and Edward, and show the love the two have for each other.
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