1. Escape from the harsh reality of Flint, Michigan: Bud, an orphan living in the foster system, finds himself in a series of increasingly intolerable situations. The climax of this comes when he runs away from the Amos family, fearing further abuse. This act of escape sets him on a journey of self-discovery and independence.
2. The quest for freedom and self-reliance: Bud's journey takes him through several challenges. He relies on his wit and resilience to navigate the complexities of his new life. He learns to find food, shelter, and even earn money through various means, like selling shoeshine services. These experiences demonstrate his growing maturity and ability to handle life on his own.
3. The search for his father: Bud's ultimate motivation is to find his father, Herman E. Calloway, a famous jazz musician. This pursuit becomes the driving force behind his actions. He gathers clues about his father's whereabouts and embarks on a journey to find him.
4. Encounters with influential characters: Along the way, Bud encounters various characters that influence his journey. Some, like Lefty Lewis, offer him kindness and guidance, while others, like the malicious Deza Malone, present challenges. These encounters shape his character and provide him with valuable lessons about life, relationships, and race.
5. The revelation of his father's identity: Finally, Bud arrives in Grand Rapids, where he finds his father's band, "The Dusky Devastators of the Depression." However, the reunion is not as straightforward as Bud anticipates. His father initially rejects him, believing Bud's mother lied about their relationship. This rejection creates a dramatic tension and sets the stage for the climax of the novel.
In summary, the rising action of "Bud, Not Buddy" is a compelling journey of self-discovery, courage, and resilience. Bud's relentless pursuit of his father, his encounters with various characters, and his struggle to survive on his own all contribute to the escalating tension and build anticipation for the eventual climax.