When the cat spills all the milk, and Walter the Baker must substitute water, the Duke and Duchess notice the difference in their favorite sweet rolls. The Duke presents Walter with a challenge: create from one piece of dough a roll the sun can shine through three times, or be banished from the Duchy. The task seems impossible, but after a few lucky accidents and a little help from his family, Walter presents the Duke with his invention -- the pretzel.

Eric Carle's familiar bright colored paper collages and an amusing story combine to create a book sure to delight the picture book crowd, as well as pretzel lovers of all ages.