Buddy Bloom Wildflower
A Tale of Struggle and Celebration
by
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Hello, my name is Buddy Bloom. I'm a wildflower. After the tough time I had getting here the sunshine sure feels good.
My story began one day in early spring. I was just a seed in a package with a whole bunch of other seeds. My friends and I were really excited. We were waiting to be planted next to a little white fence in a beautiful garden.
“I'm sure looking forward to some fresh air,” my friend Sonny said. “Me too,” said Mildred. “I wish this package had windows.” “What's taking so long?” said Pearl. “I heard so much about the clear blue sky, I can't wait to see it.”
One of the seeds started hammering on the package. “Hey, let us out of here!” he shouted. “Patience, everyone, patience.” Regina told us. “I hear Mother Nature likes to take her time.”
* * *BOOM! CRACKLE! BOOM! Everyone jumped. “What's that noise?” Joey yelled. “Thunder,” someone shouted.
* * *We all huddled close together. Another big boom, rain began to hammer down on our package It seemed to be getting louder and harder with each drop. I wondered what happened to the nice lady who had taken us home from the garden store. Why wasn't she taking care of us now?
* * *...a powerful gust of wind picked up the package and pushed it hard against the fence. An instant later the package ripped open. My friends and I were scattered in all directions.
* * *“Regina? David? Evette!” I yelled. No one answered. The rain kept coming down and soon it was dark. I was cold and alone. All my friends were gone.
* * *I looked around hoping I could find another seed and we could figure out what to do. I didn't see any seeds but I did make a new friend. “Hi there.” I turned to see an ant crawling from behind a rock. “My name is George. You look as lost as I do.” “Hello,” I said. “I hope you can help me. I am very tired and very lonely. I miss my friends and family.” George and I had just met and a few minutes later we were sharing our troubles and moreimportantly helping each other.
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About the Book
Buddy Bloom is a flower seed looking forward to fresh air, sunshine, and gentle rain to help him grow. After a raging storm—with help from George the Ant, Ken the Turtle, and Sadie the Butterfly, he learns the value of struggle, the joy of friendship, and the celebration of life.
“Children who love fantasy and anthropomorphic characters will enjoy the adventures and lessons of a little wildflower seed named Buddy Bloom. With courage and persistence, he meets his challenges. Good friends offer him important discoveries plus wisdom and help him find his place in the world and his reason for blooming.” —Mimi Brodsky Chenfeld, author, teacher, consultant
“I have always believed that if one can tell a great story, one earns the right to share the message. These engaging characters will teach young and old about dealing with challenges, overcoming adversity, and living with possibility.” —Jim Stovall, author, The Ultimate Gift
“In this digital age, old-fashioned storytelling seems to be a dying art. Jerry Snider keeps the tradition alive with this allegory about the trials and joys that help us grow to reach our potential.” —Dave Kershner, singer, songwriter, musician
“The story of Buddy Bloom captures the spirit of resilience and perseverance for young and old alike. We should all aspire to be positive in our delight in the world and how we relate to others. Well-written and insightful, this is an inspirational story that touches the heart…a beautiful gift to share.” —Pamela Kaylor PhD, Communication Studies, Ohio University
About the Author
Jerry Snider is a graduate of Ohio University. This is his first book for children. You can visit him at www.buddybloomwildflower.com
Karen Ross Ohlinger is a self- taught artist who loves creating characters that come to life in the minds of children. You can visit her at www.karenrossohlinger.com