Bud, Not Buddy (novel)

Before I had a cover or pages you could turn, I was a feeling. I was the sound of a saxophone humming a hopeful tune, the rumble of a long walk on a dusty road, and the warmth of finding a family you never knew you had. I am the story of a boy with a special suitcase full of treasures and a heart full of courage, even when he feels all alone. My pages are filled with adventure, music, and a list of special rules for making your way in the world. I am a journey to find a place to belong. You can call me 'Bud, Not Buddy'.

A wonderful writer named Christopher Paul Curtis brought me to life. He used his words like a musician plays notes to create my world. He finished writing my story, and I was shared with everyone for the first time on September 1st, 1999. My adventure is set a long time ago, in the year 1936, during a time called the Great Depression, when many people had very little money and jobs were hard to find. My main character is a ten-year-old boy named Bud Caldwell. He's an orphan, which means he doesn't have a mom or dad, and he runs away to find the person he believes is his father: a famous jazz musician. Bud’s journey across Michigan is full of challenges, but also funny moments and the kindness of strangers who help him along the way.

When people started reading my pages, they felt Bud's hope. In the year 2000, I was given some very special awards, like the Newbery Medal and the Coretta Scott King Award, because my story touched so many hearts. I help children understand that even when times are tough, you can be brave and kind. I show them that family isn't just about who you're related to, but about the people who love and take care of you. Today, I still sit on shelves in libraries and bedrooms, waiting to take new friends on an adventure. I am a reminder that every person has a story worth telling, and that a little bit of hope can sound as sweet as a whole jazz band.