Today's read was one I couldn't pass up on. As a cattle owner, this one rang so close to home that I had to take a peek. I'd never heard about Buddy (was living in Germany at the time), but it reminded me of more than a few wild incidents over the years. Yep, cattle are unpredictable...and when each one weighs more than a small car, they are a force to be reckoned with.
The blurb on this book reminded me a bit of something that happened when my parents still held property back in western Nebraska. Like all somewhat 'larger' cattle towns, there was an auction barn not too far away from Main Street. One day, an angry steer broke through the fences (honestly, it's almost impossible to hold a determined bull/steer in check) and took off down the main road. Of course, every other steer in the pen followed his lead. It turned into a stampede down Main Street, with cowboys on horses, cop cars, and pick-up trucks doing their best to wrangle them all back in.
Anyone who deals with cattle, especially out West, will have tons of jaw-dropping tales. And dangerous ones. Big animals, even gentle and kind ones, always deserve respect and awareness.
Anyway, let's head off into today's read and learn more about Buddy and his adventures.
Oh, and the proceeds from this book are going to help Buddy continue to live his lovely life in Florida.
BUDDY THE BEEFALO ESCAPES!
by Marliss Melton
Illustrated by Stephanie Melton
James-York Press
Picture Book
21 pages
ages 4 to 8
Buddy the Beefalo captured the hearts and minds of people everywhere when he escaped from a meat-processing plant in Plymouth, Connecticut, and fled into the surrounding forest. Buddy’s determination to survive led to an eight-month long search and eventually to his recovery. By then, fans of Buddy had set up a crowd-funding campaign and contributed enough money to send Buddy to a sanctuary in Florida, where he would remain forever free. Buddy’s story has now been written for young audiences to reinforce their understanding that animals, like people, deserve to live in safety and without fear.
By purchasing this book, you are contributing to Critter Creek Farm Sanctuary, Buddy's forever home.
MY TIDBITS
With care and suspense, this read draws in and will have listeners wishing they could visit Buddy someday themselves.
Buddy grew up on a pasture with a herd, but unlike the rest of the bulls, had a different set of parents. As a Beefalo (a mix of buffalo and beef cattle), he was larger than his friends and stronger. When they were rounded up and taken to a large building, Buddy became anxious, broke through the fence, and escaped to a forest. Determined not to be shipped back to the building, he avoided every attempt the police laid out to catch him even though it meant spending months and months in harsh weather by himself among the trees.
The pacing in this read is very well done and keeps the story flowing smoothly the entire way through. The difficulties Buddy faced come across with care and concern, and this makes it easy for readers to sympathize with him. The author lets his clever hesitation come across naturally to build respect, while allowing his struggles to touch the heart. The illustrations flow right along with each moment and support the emotions as well as the information to make a balanced book.
This is a lovely read-aloud for the intended age group and works even for those readers, who are sure of their words, to visit on their own. There are some terms on the first pages, which might need a little explanation (Angus, etc), which makes it an ideal read to introduce a quick theme for groups on the subject. Especially the shorter length is a fresh breeze for more reluctant listeners and keeps boredom away.
And here she is...
Marliss Melton is a best-selling, award-winning author renowned for writing suspenseful novels for adults. Yet, as a dedicated mother and educator, she instantly recognized that Buddy’s extraordinary story deserved to be shared with readers of all ages. Buddy the Beefalo Escapes! brings to life the true tale of Buddy—a remarkable bull/buffalo hybrid—who escaped a slaughterhouse and spent eight courageous months hiding in the woods near Plymouth, Connecticut.
Buddy’s fierce determination to survive and his clever ability to evade capture enthralled the nation, transforming him into a symbol of hope and resilience. His story reminds us all that the desire for freedom and a meaningful life is not exclusive to humans but is shared by creatures great and small. As Buddy’s frequent sightings kept headlines buzzing, a growing community of supporters rallied behind him, inspired by his brave journey.
This heartfelt children’s book is narrated primarily from Buddy’s perspective, inviting young readers to step inside his heart and mind during this harrowing yet inspiring adventure. Through vivid storytelling, Marliss Melton creates a powerful connection between readers and Buddy, allowing them to experience his fears, hopes, and ultimate triumph.
Adding to the magic, the book’s illustrations are masterfully crafted by Marliss’s niece, Stephanie Melton, who completed the artwork at just fourteen years old—contributing a youthful charm that perfectly complements the narrative.
Today, Buddy enjoys a peaceful life surrounded by new friends at Critter Creek Farm Sanctuary in Florida. Reflecting a commitment to animal welfare, 100% of the profits from Buddy the Beefalo Escapes! are donated to the sanctuary to support and improve the lives of the animals who call it home.
This inspiring story not only entertains but also encourages empathy, compassion, and respect for all living beings—making it a perfect addition to any young reader’s bookshelf.
BUDDY THE BEEFALO ESCAPES! May be purchased in digital ($4.99) and paperback ($9.99) format at: https://www.amazon.com/Buddy-Beefalo-Escapes-Marliss-Melton/dp/1938732634
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