Coyote in Love - by Mindy Dwyer (Paperback)

About the Book

In many Native American stories of creation, Coyote proudly takes his place as the ultimate trickster, the mischievous hero whose lessons may even include painful lessons for the unwary. Dwyer's retelling of a Northwest coyote legend allows readers to meet that same colorful and wily creature, but this time made vulnerable himself by love. Full color.

Book Synopsis

In many Native American stories of creation, Coyote proudly takes his place as the ultimate trickster, the mischievous hero whose lessons may even include painful lessons for the unwary. Mindy Dwyer's retelling of a Northwest coyote legend allows readers young and old to meet that same colorful and wily creature, but this time made vulnerable himself by love.
As the author and illustrator sums things up, Coyote in Love is "a tale of love and the way things came to be." Children will be entranced as they hear of the antics of Coyote as he sings to the heavens in pursuit of the love of a star. They'll also learn from the "Old Ones" how a lake with never-ending depth and the bluest waters-Oregon's Crate Lake--was formed by a flood of tears from heartbroken Coyote. This appealing legend is matched by the bright, whimsical watercolor images of Coyote.

Review Quotes

"This is a cute story, but we won't stop there talking about this book. Many of the children's books that are from or about the Native American culture deal with folklore and relationships between mankind and the animals. Many of the same animals are characters in various cross-cultural accounts, such as eagle, raven, fish, frog, and our friend coyote. This story takes coyote on his mischievous adventure as his love for blue star. Eventually rejected, his fall creates the crater hole and his tears fill the hole, known today as Crater Lake. This story will be well liked by children in the Pacific Northwest who are familiar with Crater Lake, especially those who have visited. The cultural accuracy of portraying an important Native American folklore hold true with the story's retelling." -ChildLit Wiki

"The illustrations are painted in vibrant purples, turquoises, and blues, offset by soft greens and yellows. Coyote's stylized figure reflects the pointed shape of his beloved star. The text, on the facing page, is surrounded by geometric borders of a similar palette, and important words are emphasized with color. With an interesting layout and typography supporting an appealing tale, this is a worthy addition to collections. -School Library Journal

"How much I like Coyote in Love! It feels rounded out, comfortable, adapted to our world. Nicely done! I think you have succeeded in bridging old and new in a creative way." -Betsy Ragland, (Portland) Oregonian

About the Author

Dwyer is an award winning author/illustrator.