How is Bud From Bud Not Buddy determined?

In "Bud, Not Buddy" by Christopher Paul Curtis, Bud's identity is determined through his journey of self-discovery and the clues he uncovers about his past. He finds a flyer for a band led by his father, which connects him to a sense of belonging and purpose. As Bud meets various characters along the way, he learns more about his mother's history and the significance of his name, ultimately leading him to a deeper understanding of who he is. This quest for identity is central to the novel's themes of family and resilience.