Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Author: Jeff Kinney

The popular Diary of a Wimpy Kid has taken young audiences by storm. Greg Heffley is forced to cope with every one's greatest fear--discovering how to stay cool in middle school. As the novel proves, this is no easy task, especially when you have a brother who taunts you, a friend who's dad screens your video games, and you have to protect yourself from bullies on Halloween. Drawing largely on experiences Kinney faced when he was growing up, this novel will make readers laugh and wonder exactly how one young boy can find himself amidst so much drama.

In his diary, Greg the main character, details his daily activities, starting with the first day of middle school and his warnings to readers about choosing where to sit in class. How does Greg feel about middle school? He thinks it's dumb because, "You got kids like me who haven't hit their growth spurt yet mixed in with these gorillas who need to shave twice a day."

Greg is one of three children. According to Greg, his little brother, Manny, "never gets in trouble, even if he really deserves it," and his older brother Rodrick is always getting the best of Greg.

Whether it's dealing with bullying, his friend Rowley, homework, or family life, Greg is always busy trying to figure out the angle that will make things come out best for him. Author Jeff Kinney does a great jobs, in words and picture, of illustrating the general goofiness that comes with being a self-centered adolescent, and the funny things that happen as a result.

Sample Questions

• Who's idea was it for Greg to write a journal?
• What is Greg so worried about?
• What type of character is Greg? Describe his traits and behaviors.

Activities and Discussions

• Create a journal and write in your journal everyday, incorporate comic drawings into your journal.
• Create your own comic book series
• Create stick figures of the characters using Popsicle sticks and pipe cleaners

About the Author

Jeff Kinney

Other Books Written by Jeff Kinney

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Cabin Fever

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Dog Days

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Hard Luck

Reference

Kinney, J. (2007). Diary of a wimpy kid: Greg Heffley's journal. New York: Amulet Books.