Desktop files won't open with mouse click

I'm sure this has an obvious solution, but I can't find it.
(I'm on a new Powerbook G4 running Tiger)
When I try to open a folder or file on my desktop by double clicking it, nothing happens.
However, when I click once on the folder/icon to highlight it, then hit Command + O, it opens/launches.
I want to be able to open files with my touchpad without having to use the keys. Is there a setting for this?
Thanks!!!!
Powerbook G4 15" Mac OS X (10.4.1)

You might want to go into the System Preferences under "Keyboard & Mouse" and check your double-click settings. Also, if I understand correctly, to click using the trackpad itself, you can select "Clicking" under the trackpad options.
PowerBook G4 12 1.5GHz and a bag full of goodies! Mac OS X (10.4.4) 80GB HD, 512 MB ram, 300GB Maxtor OneTouch II FireWire 400 External HD.

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