Goppy and Libby are best friends. But when Libby needs money for a new backpack, Goppy decides to teach her a valuable lesson about responsibility and frugality. He shows her how to earn her own money, and together they learn the joy of honest work and financial independence. It is never too early to begin teaching children about self-responsibility and the fundamentals of conservatism, and in this charming and humorous tale, Scott and Andrea Smith prove these lessons can be learned in an enjoyable and entertaining way. Children will identify with Goppy’s prudence and Libby’s tenacity, and together, children and their parents will learn how to Teach a Donkey to Fish. Andrea and Scott Smith are the not-so-normal parents of two young kids living in beautiful upstate South Carolina. Although not farmers by trade, Andrea and Scott wanted to plant the seeds of conservatism in their children at an early age.

5 Responses to “Teach a Donkey to Fish”

1. Daniel St. CLair says:

   September 3, 2010 at 12:00 am

   This book is insulting to freedom-loving American conservatives and liberals. It is also an insult to the intelligence of children to be presented with such crude, hateful political stereotypes. Anyone who buys this book and the people who made it should be ashamed of using defenseless children as political pawns via indoctrination. Parents, don’t buy your kid hate-mongering propaganda.

   Oh, and the illustrations are atrocious.

   Reply
2. T. Hoeting says:

   December 18, 2009 at 12:00 am

   I think the thing I liked best about this book was the concept of giving by teaching rather than giving with the superior attitude of a metaphorical (and condescending) pat on the head. Libby is a perfect foil for those folks who want the governemnt to give..give..and then give a bit more, rather than working and saving for what they want.

   Okay, I do think the name “Goppy” is a bit hokey, but no worse than many other children’s characters in other books. “Libby” was just too perfect.

   The illustrations are bright, colorful, and enhance the text. The message is very clear and a good one to teach our young children. If you want something, see what you can do to earn it, rather than getting it free. Yes, you will get it faster if someone gives it to you, but earning it adds a extra touch of pride in the ownership.

   Great job Mr. and Mrs. Smith! I’m looking forward to sequels!

   Reply
3. C. Young says:

   December 9, 2009 at 12:00 am

   As a loving concerned parent I am dismayed with the idea that political stereotypes are presented as a way of thinking for children.

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4. M. Means says:

   December 5, 2009 at 12:00 am

   I thought this book was wonderful. Such a good message about the “American Dream”, through work and responsibility we may flourish and succeed!! Great job, thanks for providing a book to communicate this message to children.

   Reply
5. Julianne M. Lillie says:

   December 4, 2009 at 12:00 am

   This is such a great children’s book! I would recommend it to any parent trying to raise their children with morals!!!! This book was such a breath of fresh air in this morally corrupt society! Thanks to the author!!!

   Reply