Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Diary of a Wimpy Kid


by Jeff Kinney

In Diary of a Wimpy Kid, we meet Greg Heffley who is using the book as a journal (not diary like the dumb cover says) because his mom wants him to. Not because he wants to share his feelings or anything. Greg records his thoughts on the first year of middle school (grade isn't identified, but I would assume 6th grade) and the ups and downs it provides.

Told through simple writing and illustrations, this story is quite funny. I even found myself actually laughing out loud a couple of times. The jokes are clever and the illustrations are fabulous.

I didn't particularly like Greg. He's kind of a jerk, but he seemed like a real character and I couldn't help wanting to know what would happen next. I even think there is some potential for some growing up and becoming less of a jerk in the other two books in the series.

This book would be fabulous for 5-7th grade boys (and possibly girls) who are reluctant readers.

4 out of 5 stars

6 comments:

Shelley said...

Both my 12-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter really enjoyed this one. I'll have to give it a try myself.

Laura H said...

I have seen this book review so many times. I just need to read it and get it over with.

Susan said...

My kids LOVE this book. I volunteer with the reading program at my kids' school, and let me tell you, ALL the kids are reading these books. We've got a copy around here somewhere - I really need to read it for myself ...

KT said...

It's a pretty quick read - I think it took me a bit more than an hour, so I would guess you all could finish it pretty quickly. Assuming you can find it at the library...

Enjoy

Susan said...

My 9 yo bought the sequel at the book fair yesterday. He finished it in about 1 1/2 hours and LOVED it. My 6 yo had a fit because he wants to read it again before he lets her read it. Sheesh.

I saw lots of kids buying these books. The series is very, very popular. I'm sure the waiting lists at the library are miles long!

Shooting Stars Mag said...

This does sound kind of cute. I think it would be a fun read.

-Lauren