Bud’s mother passed away when he was six and is not present in the actual events of Bud, Not Buddy. Despite her absence, she has a strong influence on Bud. Brainstorm a list of character traits for Angela Janet Caldwell. What passages in the story lead you to characterize her with those traits? Also, discuss 2-3 ways her words and actions influence Bud in his behavior and decisions.

Though Herman E. Calloway’s band is not a traditional family, Bud’s quest for a family environment is fulfilled when he arrives in Grand Rapids and meets the members. Discuss 3-4 specific ways based on book details in which the band members serve as Bud’s new family. What needs do they fulfill, and how do the individual members’ personalities play a role in making Bud feel at home?

Bud, Not Buddy does not have a “villain,” but readers can find antagonistic forces throughout the book. List 5 characters, situations, or obstacles that serve as forces working against Bud and discuss the ways in which he struggles to overcome them.