 Publisher: Penguin Books
Author: Jeff Kinney
The Diary of a Wimpy Kid novels are written in a diary format accompanied by cartoons. The main character, Greg Heffler, a self-centred adolescent, journals his middle school experiences which includes brushes with bullies, getting his best friend into trouble, making an attempt to be involved in school politics, family life, spending a lot of time playing computer games, sleeping a lot, a bit of old, mouldy cheese on the basketball court (the first novel) and more.
Greg Heffler, the wimpy kid, is the middle child of three boys. His younger brother never gets into trouble even when Greg thinks he should and his older brother is always getting the best of him. Greg tries to ensure that every situation turns out best for him with very little effort on his part but it is no surprise to readers that it rarely does turn out the way he expected. He reminds me of a junior version of Basil Faulty of the British television series Faulty Towers. With a character like this, you can expect many humorous moments.
The Diary of a Wimpy Kid series of books are a light hearted, quick and easy read, which is great for parents who need some help encouraging a child who does not particularly like to read. If you are looking for a role model type character to inspire your children, look elsewhere. Words such as dumb, moron and jerk have been used and there is also a reference to a kid smoking a pack of cigarettes a day. On the up side your children may be inspired to write their own journal and can learn from Greg Heffler's character by understanding how not to behave and how not to treat your parents and your best friend. Parents can be inspired to brush up on their parenting skills in the hope that their son's do not turn out to be like Greg Heffler.
The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary has a lot of interesting facts about the movie industry and how movies are made. The Diary of a Wimpy Kid Do-It-Yourself Book encourages children to write their own journals, create a journal cover and draw their own comics, cards, neighbourhood and bedroom.
I recommend that parents read at least one of these books as the content may not be suitable for every family. Some parents may prefer to read the books with their children and discuss the various characters or scenarios in the book. Warning: You may find yourself giggling out loud.
Suitable for children from 10 years and older when they are able to distinguish between humorous fiction and what is appropriate in real life.
Review by Cara Mullin
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