18 Books Like Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Have you ever found yourself laughing out loud while reading about the misadventures of a middle schooler navigating the ups and downs of adolescence?
If so, then you’re likely familiar with the comedic charm of ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ by Jeff Kinney.
But what happens when you’ve devoured all the books in the series and are left craving more tales of awkward encounters, humorous mishaps, and the everyday struggles of growing up?
I’ve got you covered here!
In this blog post, I will explore a treasure trove of books that capture the essence of ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ while offering their own unique twists and turns.
Get ready to embark on a hilarious literary journey that’s sure to keep you entertained from cover to cover!
Books Like Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Big Nate series by Lincoln Peirce
The “Big Nate” series chronicles the daily life and adventures of Nate Wright, a confident and somewhat mischievous sixth-grader with a talent for getting into trouble and a love for cartooning.
With a blend of humor, the trials of middle school life, and the occasional triumph, Nate’s stories are presented in a mix of traditional narrative and comic strip format that makes it accessible and engaging for readers.
The series captures the essence of being a kid with all the ups and downs, showcasing Nate’s interactions with friends, teachers, and his family in a humorous light.
Major Similarities:
Like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “Big Nate” is told through a combination of text and comic-style illustrations, appealing to readers who enjoy visual storytelling.
Both series focus on the everyday challenges and humorous aspects of middle school life, from dealing with bullies to the quest for popularity, making them relatable to their audience.
The diary or journal format of both series allows for a personal and introspective look into the protagonist’s thoughts and feelings, enhancing the connection between the characters and the readers.
Dork Diaries series by Rachel Renée Russell
“Dork Diaries” follows the life of Nikki Maxwell as she navigates the complexities of middle school, including dealing with mean girls, making new friends, and experiencing her first crushes.
Told through diary entries filled with doodles and text, the series offers a candid and humorous look at adolescence from a girl’s perspective.
Nikki’s creative and imaginative diary entries make her experiences both entertaining and relatable, capturing the essence of middle school life with all its drama and excitement.
Major Similarities:
Similar to “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “Dork Diaries” uses a diary format to tell the story, making it easy for readers to connect with Nikki’s personal experiences and feelings.
Both series deal with the universal themes of friendship, social challenges, and the struggle to fit in, all while maintaining a light-hearted and comedic tone.
The illustrated diary entries in both series enhance the storytelling, making complex emotions and scenarios accessible to young readers.
Timmy Failure series by Stephan Pastis
The “Timmy Failure” series introduces readers to Timmy Failure, an endearingly overconfident and hilariously inept detective, who, along with his imaginary polar bear partner, Total, runs the “greatest detective agency in the town” — at least in Timmy’s mind.
The books are filled with Timmy’s misinterpretations of the events around him, leading to a series of comedic mishaps and adventures. Despite his lack of detective skills, Timmy’s unwavering confidence and unique outlook on life make for a highly entertaining and heartwarming read.
Major Similarities:
Like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” the “Timmy Failure” series is told from the first-person perspective, offering an intimate glimpse into the protagonist’s often misguided thoughts and actions. Both series excel in combining humor with the trials and tribulations of childhood, particularly focusing on the theme of fitting in and finding one’s place.
The inclusion of whimsical illustrations throughout the “Timmy Failure” books complements the narrative in a similar manner to “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” making both series appealing to readers who enjoy a visual element in storytelling.
Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts
“Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life” explores the story of Rafe Khatchadorian as he starts sixth grade and decides to break every rule in his school’s oppressive code of conduct.
Through a blend of text and dynamic illustrations, the book captures Rafe’s imaginative and often humorous attempts to overturn the system, all while dealing with his own personal challenges at home and at school. The narrative delves into themes of rebellion, creativity, and the importance of self-expression, making it a compelling read for middle graders.
Major Similarities:
This book shares the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series’ penchant for blending illustrations with text to tell a compelling story that resonates with middle school readers. Both protagonists face the challenges of navigating school life and the awkwardness of adolescence, using humor and mischief as coping mechanisms.
The themes of friendship, family dynamics, and the struggle against conformity are central to both stories, making them relatable to a wide audience of young readers.
The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger
“The Strange Case of Origami Yoda” is a unique and engaging novel that combines humor with the mystery of whether the Origami Yoda puppet, created by the quirky Dwight, can truly predict the future or offer sage advice.
Told from multiple perspectives through a series of case files, the book weaves together different students’ experiences with Origami Yoda, offering insights into middle school life and the power of belief. The novel’s format, including doodles and different handwriting styles, adds depth and variety to the storytelling.
Major Similarities:
Much like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “The Strange Case of Origami Yoda” appeals to readers through its humorous take on the social dynamics of middle school, the use of a unique narrative structure, and the inclusion of illustrations that complement the text.
Both books explore themes of friendship, acceptance, and the challenges of growing up, all while engaging the reader with a compelling mystery or series of events. The interactive and participatory nature of the narrative invites readers to form their own opinions about the characters and their decisions, similar to the introspective and relatable storytelling found in “Diary of a Wimpy Kid.”
The Terrible Two by Mac Barnett and Jory John
“The Terrible Two” is a hilarious and clever series about Miles Murphy and Niles Sparks, two prankster prodigies in Yawnee Valley, a place more famous for its cows than anything else. Initially rivals, Miles and Niles eventually join forces to form an unstoppable pranking duo, aiming to pull off the biggest prank ever seen.
The series is a celebration of creativity, friendship, and the art of the prank, showcasing the lengths to which the duo will go to achieve prankster perfection, all while navigating the challenges and triumphs of middle school life.
Major Similarities:
Like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “The Terrible Two” series focuses on school life, the dynamics of friendship, and the challenges of fitting in, with a particular emphasis on the humorous aspects of these experiences.
The playful rivalry and eventual partnership between Miles and Niles mirror the friendships and conflicts found in “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” making both series relatable to readers who enjoy stories about school and the complexities of growing up. The inclusion of illustrations and the narrative’s focus on pranks and humor further align “The Terrible Two” with the appeal of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid.”
Tom Gates series by Liz Pichon
The “Tom Gates” series invites readers into the imaginative world of Tom Gates, a young boy who documents his daily adventures, thoughts, and doodles in a diary format. Filled with humor, the series touches on Tom’s school experiences, family life, and his aspirations to become a rock star.
Liz Pichon’s engaging illustrations and unique handwriting style bring Tom’s stories to life, making each page a visual delight. The series is known for its relatable humor, creative presentation, and the protagonist’s endearing quirks.
Major Similarities:
Similar to “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” the “Tom Gates” series is presented in a diary format, filled with illustrations and stories that capture the essence of being a kid. Both series explore the trials and triumphs of school life, family dynamics, and the pursuit of personal goals, all while maintaining a light-hearted and humorous tone.
The doodle-filled pages and first-person narrative style make Tom Gates’ adventures particularly appealing to readers who enjoy the visual and personal storytelling approach of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid.”
The Misadventures of Max Crumbly by Rachel Renée Russell
From the creator of “Dork Diaries,” “The Misadventures of Max Crumbly” series introduces readers to Max Crumbly as he starts middle school and faces all-new challenges, including dealing with bullies and discovering his own heroic potential.
Told through diary entries filled with text and illustrations, Max’s adventures are both humorous and relatable, offering insights into the life of a middle schooler who dreams of being a superhero. The series captures the anxieties and triumphs of middle school, friendship, and the power of perseverance.
Major Similarities:
“The Misadventures of Max Crumbly” shares the diary format and illustrative style with “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” making it attractive to readers who enjoy engaging, visually accompanied narratives.
Both series tackle the themes of navigating school life, dealing with bullies, and the importance of friendship.
The humorous and sometimes awkward experiences of Max Crumbly resonate with the relatable stories of Greg Heffley, appealing to readers who appreciate a blend of comedy and the realities of growing up.
Stick Dog series by Tom Watson
“Stick Dog” is a humorous series about Stick Dog and his group of friends as they embark on epic quests to find the perfect meal. Illustrated in a simple yet expressive style, the series combines the adventures of Stick Dog with drawings, plans, and maps created by the canine characters themselves.
The stories are told from Stick Dog’s perspective, offering a unique and funny take on the world from a dog’s point of view. The series is not only about the pursuit of delicious treats but also highlights the value of friendship and teamwork.
Major Similarities:
Although “Stick Dog” is about a group of dogs, the series shares the humorous and adventurous spirit found in “Diary of a Wimpy Kid.” The illustrations and the narrative style engage young readers in a similar way, making complex ideas and emotions accessible and entertaining.
Both series emphasize themes of friendship, the pursuit of goals (be it the perfect meal or navigating middle school), and the humorous mishaps that occur along the way, appealing to readers who enjoy stories that combine humor with heart.
Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior by Cube Kid
“Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior” offers a unique twist for fans of Minecraft, presenting the diary of a young villager who aspires to become a warrior. Told in a diary format, the story incorporates elements familiar to players of Minecraft, such as crafting, exploration, and battling monsters, while also delving into themes of bravery, self-discovery, and the challenges of achieving one’s dreams.
The illustrations and Minecraft-inspired setting make the series particularly appealing to fans of the game, providing a narrative experience that blends the virtual world with the format of a diary.
Major Similarities:
Like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior” uses a diary format to tell a compelling and personal story, albeit in a fantasy setting inspired by Minecraft. Both series engage readers with their blend of humor, illustrations, and first-person narrative, making the protagonist’s experiences both relatable and entertaining.
The themes of growth, adventure, and the pursuit of one’s goals resonate with readers, making “Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior” a unique yet familiar choice for fans of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” who also have an interest in gaming and fantasy.
My Life as a Book by Janet Tashjian
In “My Life as a Book,” readers meet Derek Fallon, a young boy who discovers a novel way to engage with reading over his summer break. Through his imaginative drawings, Derek brings stories to life, turning what he views as a chore into a series of exciting adventures.
The book touches on themes of creativity, the joys of reading, and the importance of seeing the world from different perspectives. Derek’s journey is not just about avoiding summer boredom; it’s about discovering new passions and the transformative power of imagination.
Major Similarities:
Like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “My Life as a Book” offers a relatable protagonist who navigates the complexities of youth. Both books use a combination of text and illustrations to tell their stories, making them appealing to readers who enjoy visual elements in their reading.
The themes of creativity, the challenges of growing up, and the exploration of personal interests resonate with readers of both series, offering humorous and insightful reflections on childhood.
Frankie Pickle series by Eric Wight
The “Frankie Pickle” series introduces Frankie, a young boy with a vivid imagination that turns everyday challenges into extraordinary adventures.
Whether he’s facing the daunting task of cleaning his room or navigating the social dynamics of school, Frankie’s daydreams transform his reality into a world of superheroes, pirates, and adventurers.
The series is a delightful blend of illustrated chapters and graphic novel sections, perfectly capturing the essence of Frankie’s imaginative escapades.
Major Similarities:
Similar to “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” the “Frankie Pickle” series combines engaging narrative with dynamic illustrations, appealing to readers who enjoy stories that blur the line between reality and imagination. Both series highlight the inner workings of their protagonists’ minds, offering humorous and exaggerated takes on the trials of childhood.
The theme of using creativity to cope with and interpret daily life connects the two series, making Frankie’s adventures relatable to fans of Greg Heffley’s diary entries.
EllRay Jakes series by Sally Warner
“EllRay Jakes” follows the life of the smallest boy in his class, as he navigates the challenges of school, friendships, and family. Despite his size, EllRay’s big personality and even bigger heart shine through as he deals with bullies, misunderstandings, and the pressures of being in third grade.
The series is praised for its realistic portrayal of elementary school dynamics, offering valuable lessons about honesty, bravery, and the importance of being true to oneself.
Major Similarities:
Both “EllRay Jakes” and “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” explore the social and personal challenges faced by young boys in school. While “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” is presented in a diary format with illustrations, “EllRay Jakes” focuses more on narrative storytelling but shares the humor, relatability, and themes of friendship and perseverance.
Readers who appreciate the candid and often humorous reflection on school life and growing up will find a lot to love in EllRay’s stories.
Jedi Academy series by Jeffrey Brown
“Jedi Academy” transports readers to a galaxy far, far away, where they follow the journey of a young boy attending a school for Jedi. Told through a combination of diary entries, letters, doodles, and comic panels, the series offers a unique look at the trials and triumphs of training to become a Jedi.
The mix of humor, adventure, and the challenges of navigating school life makes this series a hit with fans of Star Wars and young readers alike.
Major Similarities:
Like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “Jedi Academy” uses a diary format to give readers an intimate look at the protagonist’s thoughts and experiences. Both series blend humor with the everyday challenges of school and friendships, albeit in very different settings.
The visual storytelling elements, including illustrations and comic panels, engage readers in a similar manner, making both series appealing to those who enjoy stories that are both fun and visually dynamic.
Captain Underpants series by Dav Pilkey
The “Captain Underpants” series is a wildly popular collection of books that centers around two imaginative fourth-graders, George Beard and Harold Hutchins, and the superhero they accidentally create by hypnotizing their grumpy principal, Mr. Krupp.
The books are filled with humor, action, and the kind of silly adventures that captivate young readers. Through comic strips, flip-o-rama sections, and laugh-out-loud humor, Dav Pilkey explores themes of friendship, creativity, and standing up to bullies.
Major Similarities:
While “Captain Underpants” leans more heavily into comic book territory, it shares with “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” a profound sense of humor and a focus on the antics of school-aged protagonists. Both series are celebrated for their ability to engage reluctant readers with their mix of text and illustrations, as well as their irreverent take on school life and authority figures.
The emphasis on friendship and the power of imagination links the two series, providing readers with not just entertainment, but also messages about the importance of creativity and collaboration.
The Wimpy Kid Do-It-Yourself Book by Jeff Kinney
“The Wimpy Kid Do-It-Yourself Book” is an interactive companion to the beloved “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series. This book invites readers to engage directly with the world Jeff Kinney created by offering a variety of writing prompts, drawing activities, and space for readers to document their own stories and experiences.
It’s a tool for sparking creativity, encouraging young writers and artists to explore their imagination. The book also includes comics, puzzles, and activities related to the original series, making it a must-have for fans.
Major Similarities:
This book shares the essence of the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series by maintaining its humorous and relatable tone, while also offering fans a new way to interact with their favorite characters and settings. Like the original series, it uses a mix of text and illustrations to engage readers, but it takes a step further by making the reader an active participant in the creative process.
The DIY book promotes creativity and self-expression, key themes in the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series.
The Loser List by H.N. Kowitt
“The Loser List” chronicles the trials and tribulations of Danny Shine as he finds himself mistakenly placed on the school’s infamous “Loser List.” This diary-format novel explores Danny’s attempts to navigate the complex social hierarchy of middle school, dealing with bullies, friendships, and the quest for social acceptance.
The book is filled with humor, heart, and the kind of cringe-worthy moments that define adolescence. Through Danny’s eyes, readers get an inside look at the challenges of fitting in and the importance of being true to oneself.
Major Similarities:
Like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “The Loser List” is presented in a first-person diary format that combines text with illustrations, making it highly accessible and engaging for young readers. Both books tackle the universal themes of social acceptance, the awkwardness of middle school, and the desire to fit in, all while delivering laugh-out-loud humor and a compelling narrative.
Danny’s journey mirrors Greg Heffley’s in many ways, making “The Loser List” a perfect companion for fans looking for more stories of middle school misadventures.
Charlie Joe Jackson’s Guide to Not Reading by Tommy Greenwald
“Charlie Joe Jackson’s Guide to Not Reading” introduces readers to Charlie Joe Jackson, the self-proclaimed laziest reader in the history of reading. Through a series of humorous tips and tricks, Charlie Joe shares his strategies for avoiding reading at all costs.
However, as the story unfolds, Charlie Joe learns valuable lessons about friendship, honesty, and maybe even the joy of reading. The book is clever, witty, and filled with illustrations that add to the charm and humor of Charlie Joe’s guide.
Major Similarities:
Both “Charlie Joe Jackson’s Guide to Not Reading” and “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” excel at presenting the inner thoughts and humorous perspectives of their protagonists in a way that resonates with young readers.
The use of a first-person narrative, combined with playful illustrations, makes both books appealing to those who may be reluctant readers.
Themes of navigating school life, dealing with friends, and the growth that comes from overcoming personal challenges are central to both stories, providing readers with not only entertainment but also relatable life lessons.
