Diary of a Wimpy Kid

                 

 by Jeff Kinney

I read these books because my elementary school boys LOVE them.  We have 5 copies of all but the latest and they are NEVER on the shelf!  I read them for the same reason I read Harry Potter; I needed to be familiar with what my students are reading.  Plus, I like to laugh and if these are as funny as advertised, then count me in!

These are the diaries of Greg Heffley.  He writes about every day life as an elementary/middle school student... fights with his best friend, being the middle child and school conflicts.  They are funny... if you're an 8 year old boy.  There is little to no appeal for girls, but looking at them, I think that is to be expected.  Greg Heffley writes about things that are important to him.  And remember... these are diaries.  He does not intend for anyone to read these. 

A few years ago, I went to a book festival where Jeff Kinney was one of the featured authors.  His sessions were over flowing with 8 year old boys!  And I think this was before the second book came out.  Even before there was talk of the movie being made.

Unless you're a parent to a young boy, there is no reason for you to read these.  You are not missing anything.  If you're wondering if they're appropriate for an older elementary aged boy, absolutely.  They have the usual fart jokes that boys that age enjoy.  Let them read it.  If they're reluctant readers, these books just might be the hook they need to get them reading!

2 stars out of 5.
(Because I'm not an 8 year old boy!)