Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The last straw by Jeff Kinney
The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney, the third instalment in the hugely popular Diary of a Wimpy Kid series featuring a special movie themed cover, proves once again why readers can’t get enough of Greg Heffley’s chaotic life. Packed with laugh-out-loud moments, awkward situations and brilliant cartoon illustrations, this book continues the series’ winning formula while celebrating its ongoing popularity.
At the centre of the story is Greg, who once again finds himself dealing with the everyday disasters of growing up. From dodging responsibility to trying to impress people who barely notice him, Greg’s schemes are both ridiculous and oddly believable. One of the funniest subplots in the book begins when Greg receives a Christmas present from his uncle: a basketball hoop laundry basket. To Greg, this is not a gift - it’s a terrible hint that he’s now expected to do his own washing. What follows is a hilarious series of attempts to avoid laundry duty, including creative (and questionable) ways to rewear dirty clothes.
Greg’s problems don’t stop there. His dad becomes determined to toughen him up and even considers sending him to military academy. Greg’s frantic efforts to prove he’s brave and responsible lead to one ridiculous disaster after another. Add in his awkward crush on a girl who barely knows he exists, and readers are treated to a perfect storm of embarrassing and funny situations.
Kinney’s signature black and white cartoons perfectly complement the text, often delivering punchlines that make the jokes even funnier. The diary format, and balance between text and illustration, makes the story accessible and engaging; especially for reluctant readers or those building reading confidence.
The Last Straw feels almost like watching a stand-up comedy routine on the page. The humour is constant, the pace is quick and the situations are delightfully exaggerated, while still grounded in real childhood experiences.
Perfect for middle-grade readers, this book encourages laughter and reminds us that nobody has life completely figured out - especially not Greg Heffley…. although he would certainly beg to differ!
Themes: Friendship, School, Family, Humour.
Michelle O'Connell