"Bud, Not Buddy" follows the journey of a young boy named Bud Caldwell, who is a ten-year-old orphan living in Flint, Michigan during the Great Depression. After experiencing a difficult life in foster homes, Bud decides to run away in search of his father, whom he believes is a musician living in Grand Rapids. Armed with a briefcase full of memorabilia and optimism, Bud faces the harsh realities of his environment as he navigates his life alone. Throughout his adventure, Bud encounters various characters that shape his understanding of family, friendship, and the world around him. His interactions with other children and adults reveal the struggles faced by many during this tumultuous era. The story vividly portrays the challenges of poverty but also highlights the resilience and hope that Bud embodies as he searches for belonging.