If You Don't Know Diddley You Don't Know Squatt (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9798348494001)

In Duane's "If You Don't Know Diddley, You Don't Know Squatt," Diddley Squatt, a young black gifted guitarist with a revolutionary style, embarks on his first electrifying journey through the famous southern Chitlin Circuit Tour. The late 50's/early 60's backdrop adds a layer of historical significance to his experiences, as he navigates a world rife with racial and the cutthroat realities of the music industry. Accompanied by his best friend, a talking squirrel named Sly, Diddley encounters a colorful cast of characters - seasoned blues musicians, a comedic act, an operatic black woman singer, and a fiery popular R&B duo- each adding their own unique flavor to Diddley's adventure. He faces significant setbacks, including his first physical altercation/fight with a jealous rival and his deliberate attempt to sabotage young Didd's career. Yet, through it all, Diddley's resilience and unwavering spirit shine. He forms an unlikely friendship with a white mute roadie, named Mute; finds strength in his fellow musicians encouragement and mentorship; and uses these experiences to fuel his creativity as he writes down these experiences in his daily journal and later turns these words into new songs he creates - and ultimately culminates it all into a powerful, collaborative concert show that leaves the audience spellbound. However, the triumph is short- lived. A hurricane and a family crisis force an abrupt end to the tour, leaving Diddley a bittersweet mix of success and heartbreak as he heads back home to Rundown, Mississippi - his future uncertain but his spirit undaunted. The story is not just about the music; it's a coming-of-age tale about overcoming adversity, bullying, and finding friendship from folks of all gender and colors in unexpected places, and discovering the power of one's own voice. In the end, as Sly tells us all

- "If You Don't Know Diddley, You Don't Know Squatt."