Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Title: Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Author: Jeff Kinney
Illustrator: Jeff Kinney
Ages: 10-12
Rating: 4/5

Plot: Greg has just entered middle school and he begins his quest to be popular and famous. But its tough being popular when when everyone is a nerd but you!

Assessment: Greg's journal/diary entry style writing gives the reader a special view into Greg's special perspective on his life. But what makes the book so funny, is to see how obvious it is -to everyone but Greg, that he is the source of all his trouble.

The drawings accompanying Greg's descriptions are funny and really add a different dimension to the story.

This would be a great series to recommend for a reluctant reader -especially for boys. The stories are funny and have many elements that kids would be able to relate to. The illustrations help to break up the story, and the text that is easy enough that it would be a good recommendation for someone who is disinterested in reading because they have trouble with their reading.

Kinney, J. (2007). Diary of a wimpy kid. New York, Amulet Books.



Title: Rodrick Rules

Plot: Greg has a new diary to record the events of his year. But one thing keeps coming up, and its something he doesn't want to remember. Unfortunately for Greg his brother Rodrick knows all about his secret and he is not about to let Greg forget it!

Assessment: This next book in the series is written in the same manner, from Greg's unique perspective.

As the series progresses readers get a better look at how Greg perceives his parents. He sees them as biased towards the younger brother Manny, and oblivious to their family life. While this is part of the self-centered personality of the hero and makes up some of the humour, some parents may not appreciate Greg's seeming lack of respect for his parents.

Kinney, J. (2008). Diary of a wimpy kid: Rodrick Rules. New York: Amulet Books.



Title: The Last Straw

Plot: Greg has high hopes for the summer, but his Dad seems to have other plans for him... Military Academy. Can Greg convince his Dad that he's not as wimpy or as lazy as he seems?

Assessment: Another funny installment in Greg's Diary. While he is trying to avoid Military Academy, I thought that part of Greg's efforts was just in trying to impress his dad. In the end, they do kind of bond and Dad thinks his son is brave for trying to protect him from embarrassment -which is funny and a happy ending!

Kinney, J. (2009). Diary of a wimpy kid: The last straw. New York: Amulet Books.