J. Frank Dobie, a renowned folklorist and scholar of the American West, presents a comprehensive exploration of the coyote's place in folklore, legend, and the natural world. Drawing upon a vast collection of stories, songs, and personal observations gathered over decades, Dobie meticulously examines the multifaceted perception of the coyote across different cultures and historical periods. The book argues that the coyote, often maligned, is a creature of profound significance, embodying both the wildness and the adaptability of the American landscape.

This work is widely regarded as a seminal study on the cultural significance of the coyote in North America. Scholars and readers alike praise Dobie's deep knowledge of folklore and his engaging narrative style. The book is considered an essential resource for understanding the complex relationship between humans and this iconic animal in the American West.