How the Stars Fell Into the Sky: A Navajo Legend

How the Stars Fell Into the Sky retells the Navajo legend of First Woman, who carefully begins placing stars in the night sky to write the laws of the land for all people to read — only to have the trickster Coyote grow impatient and scatter the remaining stars into the scattered pattern we see today. Evocative illustrations and lyrical language bring this traditional pourquoi tale to life. This book is an excellent choice for students because it introduces Native American oral storytelling traditions, explains a natural phenomenon through cultural narrative, and encourages reflection on patience and consequences.

Publishing Details

Author : Jerrie Oughton

Illustrator : Lisa Desimini

Author Nationality : United States

Physical Details

Type of Book: Picture Book

Cover: Softcover

Pages: 32

Size: 10.2 x 7.9 inches

Year Published: 1996

Instructional Details

Reading Grade Level: 1st Grade

Genre: Fiction

Sub-Genre: Traditional Literature

Theme: Native Americans, Fables & Folktales, Space