Ep 5. Buster Isn't Buying It/One Ornery Critter

Buster isn't Buying It/One Ornery Critter is the fifth episode of the 19th season of Arthur. In this episode, Buster becomes skeptical about a new craze in town. Meanwhile, the kids at Lakewood Elementary School prepare for the annual "Animals in the Classroom" day.

The episode begins with Arthur and Buster discussing the latest craze in town, a new movie called "The Karate Bunny". Buster, who is known for being an avid fan of all things popular, is not interested in seeing the movie. He explains that he doesn't believe the hype and is tired of being told what he should like. Arthur tries to convince him otherwise, but Buster stands his ground. He says, "I'm my own bunny and I don't have to like what everyone else likes."

Later, Buster and Arthur visit Buster's cousin, who works at a pet store. Buster is impressed by his cousin's knowledge about animals and decides to buy a lizard. However, things quickly go awry when the lizard proves to be difficult to care for. Buster becomes frustrated and declares that pets are not worth the trouble.

Meanwhile, at Lakewood Elementary School, the students are preparing for "Animals in the Classroom" day. Each student is assigned an animal to research and present to the class. Fern is assigned the task of researching skunks, but she is dismayed when everyone makes fun of her for having to present on such a smelly animal.

Meanwhile, at the pet store, Buster's cousin tries to convince him to keep the lizard. He explains that all pets, no matter how difficult they may seem, are worth the effort. Buster is still hesitant until he sees a stubborn parrot who refuses to eat. Buster takes it as a challenge to get the parrot to eat and eventually succeeds. He realizes that he can't give up on something just because it's difficult.

Back at school, Fern presents her research on skunks to the class. She surprises everyone by revealing that skunks are not only fascinating animals but also helpful to the environment. The class is impressed, and Francine even admits that she wishes she had been assigned skunks instead of her rabbit.

In the end, Buster decides to keep the lizard and promises to take better care of it. He also promises to not give up on things just because they're difficult. The episode ends with Arthur and Buster discussing their newfound appreciation for individuality and the importance of not blindly following the crowd.

Overall, this episode teaches kids about the importance of being true to yourself and not blindly following popular trends. It also highlights the value of persistence and not giving up on something just because it's difficult. The storyline about the "Animals in the Classroom" day also teaches kids about the importance of appreciating all animals, even if they don't seem as exciting as others.