Every summer, Paul and Barbara Roberts take their children out to the country, where they spend peaceful time together at the edge of the lake. Their four kids love the place they call "The Cottage." They love each other, too, even as each child begins to grow and develop new interests and new friends-each child except Peter, who is different than the others. Peter has Down's syndrome. He doesn't look like the other Roberts kids, and he doesn't act like them, either. This can be hard to understand, especially for other kids Peter's age. Even so, Peter is often filled with joy; the simplicity of nature gives him peace. One day, while sitting by the lake, Peter makes friends with a tiny hummingbird. Peter names the hummingbird "Buddy," and soon they form a friendship that just might save Peter's life. "Peter and Buddy the Hummingbird" is based on the true story of a real Down's syndrome child who found wonder and joy in nature. Peter never gives up, and neither does Buddy, which goes to show that no matter what someone's size or skill level is, everyone has the ability to leave lasting impressions on the lives of family and friends.