Coyote and the Stars

10 pages · 3 min · ages 5+

Based on: Native American (Wasco)

Coyote looked up at the sky. The night was very quiet now. He saw many tiny, silver lights. "The stars are pretty," Coyote said. He wanted to share their light. He smiled at the glowing sky.

Coyote had a very kind idea. He wanted to make sky pictures. Then people could see great stories. Coyote felt a warm feeling inside. He wanted to help his friends. Making others happy is a gift.

Coyote could not reach the sky. He went to find his friend. Eagle had very large, strong wings. "Will you fly me up?" Coyote asked. Eagle was happy to help him. They were ready for a journey.

Coyote sat on Eagle's wide back. They flew high above the trees. The air felt cool and fresh. The stars looked like bright lemons. They were closer than ever before. It was a very long flight.

The stars were soft, friendly beings. They giggled and danced in space. "We want to play!" they sang. Coyote touched a star very gently. It felt warm like a sunbeam. He was careful with his hands.

Coyote began to draw with stars. He placed them in a line. He made the shape of Bear. The stars stayed where he put them. This was a very special pattern. Coyote worked with a big smile.

Next, he made a swimming Fish. Then he made a brave Hunter. The stars shone bright in spots. They liked being part of stories. Coyote was a very creative artist. He loved making beautiful new things.

Coyote had many stars left over. His paws were getting very tired. He wanted to finish his job. He wanted the whole sky bright. "There are so many!" he whispered. He was excited to see more.

Coyote tossed the rest into sky. He flung them with a dance. The stars flew like silver dust. They made a long, white river. This was the magnificent Milky Way. It was a splash of light.

Down below, the people looked up. They saw the Bear and Fish. They saw the river of stars. "Look at the magic!" they cheered. Coyote felt very happy and proud. He shared his love with everyone.