Watchdog and the Coyotes

"Watchdog and the Coyotes" by Bill Wallace is a children's novel that tells the story of Sweetie, a Great Dane who has been mistreated by his previous masters and has ended up in the pound. The book explores themes of perseverance, loyalty, and outsmarting adversity.

Plot Summary

The story begins with Sweetie, a Great Dane, who has been mistreated by his previous owners and has been to the pound three times. Despite his rough start, Sweetie is determined to prove himself as a loyal and protective companion. When coyotes start stealing food from his friends, Red the Irish Setter and Poky the Beagle, Sweetie must find a way to protect them. The coyotes threaten to return and eat Sweetie and his friends, but Sweetie is determined to outfox them.

Key Themes

1. Perseverance: Sweetie's journey from being mistreated to becoming a loyal protector showcases his perseverance and determination.
2. Loyalty: The novel highlights Sweetie's unwavering loyalty to his friends, Red and Poky.
3. Outsmarting Adversity: The story emphasizes Sweetie's ability to outsmart the coyotes, demonstrating that even the weak can overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Critical Reception

While detailed reviews are not extensively available, the book has been praised for its engaging storyline and suitable age range. Here are some points from the available sources:

• Goodreads: The book is described as a fast-paced, descriptive novel suitable for reading aloud or independently, with a popular theme of the weak overcoming the seemingly more powerful.
• Simon & Schuster: The summary highlights Sweetie's attempts to make peace with the coyotes, despite their scornful howls, and his determination to protect his friends.
• Barnes & Noble: The book is noted for its fast-paced and descriptive narrative, making it appealing for both reading aloud and independent reading. It is also mentioned that the author uses the popular theme of the weak overcoming the powerful, which adds to its engaging nature.

Awards and Recognition

Bill Wallace, the author, has won numerous children's state awards, including the Bluebonnet Award from the Texas Association of School Librarians and Children's Round Table, the Sequoyah Children's Book Award from the Oklahoma State Department of Education, and the Central Missouri State University Award for Excellence in Children's Literature.

Publication Details

• Publisher: Aladdin
• Publication Date: September 1, 1995
• Edition Description: Reissue
• Pages: 112
• Product Dimensions: 5.12 inches (width) x 7.50 inches (height) x 0.30 inches (depth)
• Lexile: 600L
• Age Range: 8-12 years

Overall, "Watchdog and the Coyotes" is a heartwarming tale of perseverance and loyalty, suitable for children aged 8-12. Its engaging storyline and themes make it a popular choice in children's literature.