Character Stories for How Coyote Stole Fire

Character Stories

for

How Coyote Stole Fire

By

Hope W. Myles Scott

See Original Story Editions by CAST

I am Human.  Our winters are very cold.  Some of my friends were so cold that they did not survive the winter blizzard! My family is afraid that I may not survive.  They must find a way to keep me warm during our cold winters.  What can be done?  Can anyone help us?

I am the Fire Being.  If you look closely you can see my eyes and mouth!  My body glows like burning coals!   I have menacing claws like the talons of the dangerous vulture . But, I keep things warm.   Have you ever been cold and wet?  If you stand by my flames I will warm you and help you dry.  I am also useful for cooking.  I did not want Humans to have access to my benefits .  That is until Coyote came and stole a fiery branch.

I am Coyote.  My instincts are to distrust Humans.  But, one day while I was out I heard Humans singing a sad song because of ones who did not survive, both old and young, the winter blizzard.  I have no need for warmth; my fur keeps me warm.  Humans need warmth to survive.  I am also considered a Trickster because of the tricks I play on others.  I used to have golden fur from head to tail.  I stole a fiery branch from the Fire Beings.  As I ran away, one of them caught the end of my tail.  All Coyotes now have a white tail-tip because of the sizzling grip of the Fire Being.

I am Chipmunk.  My instinct is also to distrust Human.  When Coyote told me that the Humans needed my help I was filled with compassion .  I wanted to help.  Like Coyote, I do not have a need for warmth because of my fur.  I was once tan all over.  But, as I was carrying the flaming stick that Coyote stole from the Fire Beings it burnt three long streaks down my back.  Now, all Chipmunks carry the same streaks on their backs.

I am Robin. I also had compassion on Human when I heard their plight .  I am unlike Coyote and Chipmunk because I do not need fur to keep me warm.  My warmth comes from my feathers which were once all chocolate brown.  I helped Coyote by carrying the burning branch close to my chest.  That fiery branch is the reason that now all Robins have a red chest.

1. None of the animals in the story have a relationship with humans.  What animals do you think could have helped in this story?
2. What if Coyote and the other animals could not carry fire to Human?  
3. Has fire been beneficial or harmful to animals?  Why or Why not?

UDL Editions by CAST - How Coyote Stole Fire 

Word Central - Merriam-Webster

How Coyote Stole Fire Short and Long Versions

Activities

Other Native American Tricksters

Coyote Steals Fire YouTube Video