Song Dogs

Kristin Butcher writes novels for young adults. Her most recent works
are Cairo Kelly and the Mann, The Gamma War, and The Tomorrow Tunnel.

Song Dogs are coyotes, and this novel tells their story in an
informative, yet engaging manner. Following the activities of a handful
of coyotes in Alberta, Betty Wilson cleverly gives the reader a science
lesson on “Canis Latrans,” including everything from survival skills
and territorial rights to social behaviors and family practices.

As the story opens, it is autumn and the reader is introduced to
Silvertip, a young coyote about to leave the protective guidance of his
parents and set off on his own. While being careful to steer clear of
people and the territory of other coyotes, Silvertip soon meets up with
Shadow, a female who is to become his lifelong mate. Together they head
into their first prairie winter, encountering freezing temperatures,
traps, dogs, guns, a vicious badger, meager food sources, and a bout of
almost-fatal distemper, not to mention several run-ins with other
less-than-friendly coyotes. At one point, circumstances separate the
two, and the following summer finds Silvertip babysitting for one coyote
couple, while Shadow performs the same service for another. However,
once their duties are done, the young coyotes search each other out once
more and continue on their journey through life.

Because the book encompasses a full year and visits coyotes of various
ages, it is able to explore all aspects of coyote life. It shows the
animals’ interaction with people, with other creatures, with their
environment, and with each other. And when it’s done, the reader
understands better the coyotes’ need to sing. Recommended.