A Coyote's in the House

Yes, that Elmore Leonard, pacey, racey crime writer, well known for his ability to catch the voice of his tough characters, has written a book for children. Good news, in prospect. A coyote, Antwan, tough-guy outsider, takes up the offer from an Alsatian, the faded star of a series of Hollywood films, to see what life as a ‘pet’ is like with his human owners and dainty poodle companion, Miss Betty. When Antwan and Buddy plan a life-swap we have some of the wise-cracking dialogue we would expect and some lively, jolly incidents, with clever plotting. The Hollywood background and the very specific reference to the world of films are the final touches of what seems like a ready-made film script. Even the few Lauren Child illustrations, adding her typical though rationed dash of fun, seem like cues for the animator. The many cutesy touches give the book the feel of manufactured children’s entertainment but as a film, with those superstar voice-overs for the slick animation, well… we could have a more contemporary and equally popular Lady and the Tramp. (Leonard’s own guidance to writers, reprinted on his website, may offer more for children and teens to get their teeth into; it’s literally Get Shorty for sentences and fancy writing.)