Dairy of a Wimpy Kid--Reading Journal

Dairy of a Wimpy Kid
By Jeff Kinney

As I sat reading on the couch, using my husband as a back support, he was obviously reading along, for he kept chuckling. I’m sure he could relate to Greg somewhat, being one of the smallest boys in his class all through junior high. Any middle school boy, but especially those who fall at or below the average popularity rating, can relate to Greg and his quest for positive attention from his peers. Author Jeff Kinney does not sugarcoat Greg’s character at all—he is self-centered, opportunistic, and an inconsiderate friend. Perhaps that is what makes him so realistic. Aren’t all middle school boys (and girls for that matter) like that to some degree? Despite his faults, he is a likable character, and I had to laugh at all of his antics (and Kinney’s cartoons). He is honest (at least in his journal) and a kid that everyone can relate to. The book serves as a great springboard for discussions about friendship, perceptions, gender differences, honesty, and many other social issues that ‘tweens face on a daily basis.

I laughed consistently throughout the book, and it was an easy, quick read. I think upper elementary and middle school boys (and girls) would LOVE this book because they can relate to it so easily. The handwritten font as well as the cartoons would appeal to almost all readers, especially reluctant readers, in my opinion. However, I found that it was a little episodic; and, although the ending is logical and fitting, it was something of a let- down to me—a little abrupt with not much of a resolution. I found myself thinking, “That’s the end?!” I’m not sure what I was looking for. Perhaps I was wanting to see more evidence that Greg grows and learns from his mistakes a little more at the end. With the diary format, though, I’m not sure if a more self-reflective ending would have worked as well (nor would it be very realistic for a middle-school boy :-)).