Set in 1903 and 1904, Buxtehude, the main character is a black bear born in Maine with a physical disability. Young Buxtehude soon learns the hardships and pitfalls of even the mildest of disabilities. Despite the serious message of the book, Buxtehude meets some humorous and scary characters during his journey to find his self worth. Children will find this book to be a delightful read that will provoke both laughter and enlightening thought.