The Three Little Javelinas by Susan Lowell

Traditional/Folk

This story is an adaptation of a familiar folktale, "The Three Little Pigs". This version is southwestern, taking place in the desert. Javelinas are related to pigs and are wild and hairy. The story plot is essentially the same as the originial version. The three javelinas each set out to build a house of their own. The first javelina builds his house out of tumbleweeds, the second out of saguaro sticks and the third out of adobe bricks. Instead of a wolf, the three javelinas were tormented by a coyote. In the end, all three of the wild pigs are safe and sound in the third pig's house, sheltered from the coyote. I believe this story would be a good change to reading the original version of "The Three Little Pigs." Most students have heard the ordinary version before and a different adaptation would create a new interest to the old tale. This story would be a good example to read to students before assigning a creative writing assignment. With this tale, a teacher could explain that authors create new and special stories out of old stories by using a similar plot. Students could then create a new story of their own using a tale that they already know, giving them a chance to use their imagination and practice writing skills.