A Powerful Story of Wildlife and Coexistence: Coyote’s Wild Home
Dear Animal Advocacy Supporters,
This month, as our Humane Education Resource of the Month, we are excited to highlight an exceptional resource that aligns perfectly with our mission of fostering compassion and understanding towards animals: Coyote’s Wild Home, by Barbara Kingsolver (2023 Pulitzer Prize Winner in fiction; 2000 National Humanities Medal winner) and Barbara’s daughter, Lily Kingsolver (American ecologist and author), with illustrations by Paul Mirocha. Published in 2023 to extremely positive reviews, this 32-page picture book offers two intertwined stories that describe the adventures of a young coyote pup and a girl named Diana, both embarking on their first journeys into the Appalachian wilderness.
The story unfolds through alternating perspectives. Coyote Pup, under the guidance of his aunt, ventures out for his first hunting lesson, learning essential survival skills and the importance of patience in the wild. Simultaneously, Diana embarks on a camping trip with her grandfather, who shares his wisdom about the natural world, teaching her to observe animal tracks, understand the roles of various creatures, and appreciate nature’s delicate balance. This parallel storytelling not only highlights the similarities between human and animal experiences but also emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living beings within their habitats. Throughout their journey, Coyote’s Wild Home opens young and mature minds alike to the wonders of the natural world and the complexities of animal life. It also sheds light on the ever-growing challenges coyotes face as they navigate a world encroached upon by human development.
What cannot be overstated is the exquisite illustrations of artist, Paul Mirocha. Within the rich narrative, he expertly weaves detailed paintings that vividly capture the beauty and lifeforce of the Appalachian forest. Each page immerses readers in lush landscapes, from dense woods to flowing streams, bringing the environment to life and enhancing the educational aspects of the story. The artwork serves to invite readers to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature.
What is important to note is the strength of Coyote's Wild Home educational value. The Kingsolvers, both trained scientists, incorporate biological facts into the narrative, offering age-appropriate lessons on ecology, predator-prey relationships, and the significance of each species in maintaining environmental harmony. For example, through Grandpa's explanations, readers learn how coyotes help control populations of herbivores like deer and rabbits, preventing overgrazing and promoting forest health. This approach fosters a sense of respect and empathy toward these often-misunderstood creatures, challenging negative stereotypes and highlighting their vital role in the ecosystem.
Coyote's Wild Home stands out as a harmonious blend of storytelling, art, and education. It encourages young readers to explore the natural world with curiosity and compassion, fostering an early appreciation for biodiversity and the special relationships that sustain our ecosystems. The book also includes backmatter, which provides further information about coyotes and practical suggestions on how readers can contribute to their conservation. This supplementary content serves as a valuable resource for parents and educators aiming to deepen children's understanding of wildlife and environmental stewardship.
As advocates for animals and their habitats, we believe that early education is key to creating a compassionate future for wildlife while encouraging the values necessary for more respectful coexistence. Coyote’s Wild Home is a powerful resource for nurturing that awareness, and we highly recommend it for families, schools, and libraries.
Thank you for your continued support, and for being part of our mission to create a kinder world for all living beings!
Source: The Gryphon Press
