Old Coyote Book

With simple beauty, Nancy Wood tells a loving story about a wise creature's last day, illuminated with masterful illustrations by Max Grafe.

Old Coyote's muzzle is turning white, and his steps are slow. He spends most of his time basking in the sun and remembering. Chasing rabbits, raising pups with Mrs. Coyote, gathering with his friends on the mountain and howling at the moon — it's been a long, full life, and he's grateful for it. But could it be time for him to take one last journey?

Elizabeth Young - Children's Literature

Soft, gentle, peaceful illustrations enhance the quiet text of this story of an old coyote in his final hours on earth. Though Old Coyote drifts off to sleep on top of a mountain, the analogy is subtle enough for readers to understand he has died without many grim overtones. Old Coyote carefully says good-bye to Mrs. Coyote, assures the rabbits he will not hunt them today and kindly greets his old friends on his moonlight journey. The symbolism is congeneric to Native America folklore, and this work may be construed as such, especially from the endpapers and final double page spread where Old Coyote dreams his way into a whole new world. Appropriate for dealing with the death of a loved one, four legged or two, this book will also be helpful when adult words aren't appropriate or suitable. It is encouraging to realize our part in the endless circle of life and accept whatever small piece we may enjoy on earth. 2004, Candlewick Press, Ages 4 to 8.