Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Chapter Book 8


Title: Bud, Not Buddy
Author: Christopher Paul Curtis
Genre: Historical Fiction
Subgenre: Chapter Book
Themes: Independence, Running away, Bravery
Primary Characters: Bud Caldwell
Date of publication: 1999; 2000- Won the Newbery Award
Publishing Company: Random House Children’s Books

Summary: Bud Caldwell, who is ten years old, is motherless. He decides to run away from his most recent foster family in Depression-era Michigan. He doesn’t know exactly where he is going but he end up in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Bud looks up the man that he is convinced is his father. Unfortunately Herman E. Calloway, a famous jazz musician, has no interest in taking care of a 10-year-old orphan. Bud lands on his feet, though, thanks to the interest of the other members of Calloway's band. 

In the classroom: Christopher Paul Curtis is a phenomenal writer. I think it is important for students to be aware of how life was in the Great Depression and also be aware of situations like living in a foster home. It is an important lesson for students to grasp that everyone has a different story and life style. This book will be a wonderful teaching tool that will give an indirect History lesson as well. 

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