by Kathy Beckwith (Author), Joann Sims (Illustrator)
DIDDLYSQUAT is a little story about 1 orange, 2 people desperate to have it, 3 geese, and a court jester with all the answers. Or not. When the jester takes over and insists on the one and only perfect solution, which leaves neither the chef nor the cooper happy, the geese (and the reader) realize that a little pause and a little problem-solving could have done wonders. DIDDLYSQUAT is both whimsical and full of wisdom, a story about the benefits of communicating before jumping to conclusions or making demands. It is an inspiration for learning conflict resolution skills, ways of friendship, and skills of leadership. It is written to delight the young child, but is equally meaningful to children, youth, and adults who experience an ah-ha moment over the surprise ending.