A gentle and heartfelt picture book that helps children understand the loss of a beloved pet.
From puppyhood in Hollywood to one final snoot boop, One Last Snoot Boop tells the story of Cuthbert, a mischievous and loyal family dog whose life is filled with love, laughter, and daily walks.
But as the years pass and Cuthbert begins to slow down, JJ and Matt must face the moment every pet family eventually encounters – saying goodbye.
Written in warm, playful rhyme and paired with soft watercolor illustrations, this touching story helps young readers understand that grief and love often go hand in hand. One Last Snoot Boop offers a gentle way for families to talk honestly about loss while celebrating the joy, friendship, and memories pets leave behind.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
One Last Snoot Boop is a moving story that will touch the hearts of all animal lovers, especially those who’ve loved and lost a pet.
We form strong bonds with our pets. They become our confidant, our honorary sibling, our therapy buddy, and our friend. We see each other through the good times and bad. We often grow up together, not quite remembering a time they were not a part of our lives. And when the time comes to say goodbye to our beloved friend, our hearts shatter. One Last Snoot Boop tells the story of an adorable canine who found his forever home at three months old. It was love at first sight for JJ and Matt. They didn’t mind Cuthbert’s queasy stomach on car rides, his chew toy preferences, or whining at night. They were patient with him, and the snapshots show a family who adored being together.
Time moves swiftly. One minute, you are trying to corral an energetic puppy, and the next, you are hugging them as they grow weaker in your arms. JJ and Matt face this emotional journey in One Last Snoot Boop. The story, the illustrations, it all captures the heartbreaking reality. But what truly touches the heart is their final moments together. No spoilers, but you might want tissues nearby.
The death of a beloved pet is never easy to deal with, not for adults and especially not for kids. Kids might question whether there is a doggie heaven. Though One Last Snoot Boop does not come out and say there is one, it does show “Rum the Mighty Tum” in his afterlife. The dog acted as he had for many years and fondly remembered his owners’ loving hands. They, in turn, felt their pup’s love long after he’s gone.
One Last Snoot Boop is an emotional story; a great choice if your family has recently lost a pet, especially a dog. I recommend sharing the book with children aged 3-8 years. I also advise having tissues nearby.
Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest)
Score: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Meet the Author
John Graff is the author of One Last Snoot Boop, a children’s picture book inspired by the life of his beloved dog, Cuthbert. He is the founder and CEO of Ashby & Graff Real Estate and lives in Los Angeles with his husband, Matt, and their son. This is his first children’s picture book.