Diary of a Wimpy Kid is a book for middle-grade readers written and illustrated by Jeff Kinney. Published in 2007, it marked the debut of a bestselling series. Set against the backdrop of middle school, the book is written from the perspective of Greg Heffley, a sixth-grader navigating the complexities of the 'tween years. Greg's candid and often humorous diary entries document his experiences, struggles, and schemes to achieve popularity and respect amidst the social hierarchy of middle school.
Greg's life is portrayed with a blend of comedy and the genuine challenges of growing up. He shares his frustrations with his family, including his teenage brother, Rodrick, who is constantly at odds with Greg, and his toddler brother, Manny, who enjoys a seemingly endless streak of parental favoritism. His attempts to become popular involve a series of misadventures, including misguided endeavors with his best friend, Rowley Jefferson, who is unconcerned with social status yet finds unexpected popularity.
The story reveals the highs and lows of Greg's school year, from creating a haunted house to participating in a school play gone awry, dealing with bullies, and the ramifications of a broken friendship. The infamous "Cheese Touch" incident underscores the book's exploration of schoolyard culture and peer pressure, culminating in a poignant conclusion that tests the integrity and depth of Greg and Rowley's friendship.
Since its debut, Diary of a Wimpy Kid has won widespread acclaim and an avid following, inspiring numerous sequels that continue the adventures and misadventures of Greg Heffley. Its success has also led to adaptations in film, including a live-action feature in 2010 and an animated film released on Disney+ in 2021, further cementing the series' impact on children's literature and popular culture.
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About the author
Jeff Kinney
Jeffrey Patrick Kinney is an acclaimed American author, cartoonist, and screenwriter. He rose to prominence through his creation of the children's book series Diary of a Wimpy Kid, which has captured the hearts of young readers worldwide. He is also the creator of a child-centric website, Poptropica.
Born in 1971 in Fort Washington, Maryland, Kinney started his journey into the world of children's literature when he was just a kid. While a student at the University of Maryland, College Park, he created the comic strip "Igdoof," showcasing his budding talent in storytelling and illustration. His commitment to storytelling was further solidified with the conception of Diary of a Wimpy Kid in 1998, a project that began as an online version before transitioning into a globally celebrated print series. As of 2023, the series has expanded to include 31 books, with over 275 million copies sold worldwide.
Throughout his prolific career, Kinney has received numerous accolades, including six Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards for Favorite Book and recognition as one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People in the World. His Diary of a Wimpy Kid books have been adapted into a successful film series, for which Kinney served as executive producer.
Beyond his writing, Kinney is a dedicated advocate for reading. With his wife, Julie, he owns and operates the cleverly named bookstore An Unlikely Story in Plainville, Massachusetts. In 2023, Kinney embarked on The No Brainer Show book tour, promoting library support and literacy through interactive events. Dedicated to not only entertaining young readers but also fostering a love for reading among them, Jeff Kinney continues to be a significant figure in children's literature, media, and lives.
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