1. Curtis's use of dialogue lends itself well to readers theater. Choose a selection such as Bud's first encounter with the jazz band or the story of how Bugs got his name, and perform the scene for the class.

2. View a 1930s Shirley Temple movie such as Little Miss Marker. Discuss how the film compares to Bud, Not Buddy.

Are there similarities or differences?

Which is more true to life? Why do you think Shirley Temple was such a popular child star? Would she have appealed to Bud? Why or why not?

3. Create a panel discussion of the pros and cons of placing children in foster homes. Could Bud's experience still apply? Why or why not?

4. How does the structure of Bud, Not Buddy, compare to Curtis's earlier work, The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963? Is one more accessible or easier to follow than the...