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In this colorful book filled with rhymes and laughs, young readers meet Deondre and his brother, Devante. The story centers around Deondre and Devante’s pursuit of cookies for breakfast. However, their father insists that the boys cannot have cookies for their morning meal. Deondre and Devante beg and plea for chocolate chip, gingersnaps, and vanilla cream. Their father navigates the situation by offering alternatives such as cocoa and Apple Jax, but the boys continue pleading. Just when young readers and their parents think that Deondre and Devante’s father has won the morning battle, a surprise is received that will make everyone happy.
This book offers a strong lesson about the power of conflict management and negotiation. As Devante and Deondre pose one side of their argument, their father gently nudges them toward a healthy resolution. What the book strongly depicts is how, by avoiding an argument, Devante, Deondre, and their father carefully work towards a solution that works for all. The colorful illustrations provide a visual depiction of the experience and the mediation. These illustrations make it easier for young readers to understand what personal conflict navigation and mediation look like.
Readers of all ages will find humor in Devante and Deondre’s actions, and parents will find an admirable, inspirational role model in their father. Thus, the book is not only a great learning tool that teaches how to respond to disagreements, but it is also a great tool for teaching readers of all ages to develop strong character and to learn to respect others even when they disagree.