Curtis, C.P. (1999). Bud, Not Buddy. [New York]: Scholastic.

Bud Caldwell is a clever young boy on the run searching for his long lost father.  Years ago his mother died leaving Bud with a few precious objects that convince Bud that his father is a famous musician named Herman E. Calloway. As Bud goes along his journey, he uses his wit and experience to survive and find the man who could be his dad. Although there are disappointments along the way, Bud finally finds where he belongs, and discovers not only his past, but also a future.

This book grabs you from the very beginning. I found I was emotionally attached to Bud, and wanted so badly for him to find happiness, but I was also laughing out loud at some of the events. This story blends just the right amount of mystery and humor to make the emotional journey riveting for the reader. We are taken through the experience of searching for answers, but Christopher Paul Curtis slowly allows the reader to discover the truth right along with Bud. I love this book, and the blending of historical facts and information with a great story show how historical fiction can be such a powerful experience for readers.