Newbery Medal Winner Series
Bud, Not Buddy
on Goodreads (112,851)
What’s inside...
Hit the road with Bud in this Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award-winning classic about a boy on a journey to find his father—from Christopher Paul Curtis, author of The Watsons Go To Birmingham—1963, a Newbery and Coretta Scott King Honoree. It’s 1936, in Flint Michigan. Times may be hard, and ten-year-old Bud may be a motherless boy on the run, but Bud’s got a few things going for him: 1. He has his own suitcase full of special things. 2. He’s the author of Bud Caldwell’s Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself. 3. His momma never told him who his father was, but she left a clue: flyers advertising Herman E. Calloway and his famous band, the Dusky Devastators of the Depression!!!!!! Bud’s got an idea that those flyers will lead him to his father. Once he decides to hit the road to find this mystery man, nothing can stop him—not hunger, not fear, not vampires, not even Herman E. Calloway himself. '[A] powerfully felt novel.' —The New York Times
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-11
Length
304 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Bud is determined to find his father? How does his determination help him navigate challenges?
What role do the suitcase and its contents play in Bud's journey? What special item would you carry on a journey?
How do the different characters in the story change Bud’s view on family and trust? Who influences him the most?
What does Bud learn about the importance of music in his life and community? How does music influence your feelings or experiences?
How do Bud's experiences during the Great Depression reflect the struggles people faced during that era? Can you relate them to any challenges we face today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on Bud's journey and the challenges he faces, encouraging your child to explore their feelings and thoughts about the storyline.
Use Bud’s rules for life as a fun discussion point. Ask your child what rules they might create for themselves, and why.
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in Bud’s situation, promoting a deeper connection to the storyline and characters.
Discuss the historical context of the book. Explain the Great Depression briefly and discuss how historical events can shape characters' lives and stories.
Relate the theme of music to your child's experiences. Ask them about a song that is important to them and why, connecting Bud's love for music to their personal experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Bud, the protagonist, demonstrates resilience as he faces numerous challenges in search of his father. His determination despite setbacks is a central theme.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face difficulties with a positive attitude and not to give up easily when faced with challenges during schoolwork, sports, or other activities.
Example Lesson: Importance of hope and positive outlook
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Bud remains hopeful and keeps a positive outlook which helps him navigate through tough situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children the importance of maintaining hope and positivity even in difficult times, which can improve their mental health and overall well-being.
Example Lesson: Value of relationships and trust
Explanation: Bud's interactions with various characters throughout the book show the importance of forming trust and building relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the significance of building trusting relationships with family and friends and how these relationships can provide support in times of need.
Example Lesson: Understanding history and its impact
Explanation: Set during the Great Depression, the book provides a historical backdrop that adds depth to the storyline and helps children understand the impact of history on personal lives.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to take an interest in learning about history and how it shapes the world they live in.
Example Lesson: Self-identity and personal growth
Explanation: As Bud searches for his father, he also discovers more about himself and his past, which is crucial for his personal growth.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of self-discovery and personal growth through exploration and asking questions about their own lives.