What does plagues mean in bud not buddy?

In "Bud, Not Buddy" by Christopher Paul Curtis, the term "plagues" refers to the hardships and challenges that the protagonist, Bud Caldwell, faces throughout his journey. These "plagues" symbolize the various obstacles, such as loss, abandonment, and poverty, that affect his life as an orphan during the Great Depression. They highlight the struggles of resilience and survival in a difficult environment, shaping Bud's character and determination to find his place in the world.