Bud, Not Buddy
Corgi Childrens 2003
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- resilience
- identity
- family and belonging
- perseverance
- hope
- friendship
- music and jazz
- Great Depression hardships
About this book
Bud Caldwell is a ten-year-old on the run during the Great Depression, carrying a suitcase of treasures and a stack of flyers that might lead him to the father he’s never met. His journey from foster homes and Hoovervilles to the world of a traveling jazz band is filled with humor, heart, and quick thinking. With a lively voice and memorable characters, the story blends adventure and history in a way that keeps readers turning pages. Perfect for middle graders who enjoy resilient heroes, historical settings, and a touch of music.
Setting: Michigan during the Great Depression (Flint and Grand Rapids), 1930s
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bud, Not Buddy right for my child?
Yes — Bud, Not Buddy is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include resilience, identity, family and belonging.
How long does it take to read Bud, Not Buddy?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Bud, Not Buddy takes around 6.8h to finish. The book has 67,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Bud, Not Buddy have an AR quiz?
Yes — Bud, Not Buddy has an AR quiz available, worth 8 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Bud, Not Buddy?
Bud, Not Buddy has an AR reading level of 5, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.