HOW THE STARS FELL INTO THE SKY

Oughton's first book for children is a lyrical retelling of a potent myth: It is First Woman's idea that ``the laws'' should be written for all to see. Using stars from the blanket at her feet, she is slowly recording them by ``placing her jewels across the dome of night'' when she is observed by Coyote, who offers to help. Unfortunately, he lacks First Woman's patience. Picking up the blanket, he hurls the stars at the sky in ``wild disarray, shattering First Woman's careful patterns'' and leaving the world forever in confusion about exactly what the laws may be. Oughton's fine debut provides Desimini with the best vehicle she's had for her spare, powerful style; she sets the heroic figures of the early world against deep blues and greens, the shadowed earth glowing ruby red against a starry sky. A dramatically handsome setting for an especially noble Native American tale. (Folklore/Picture book. 4-10)