Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw (by Jeff Kinney)

I haven't read this one yet, but I've read others, and as a children's librarian and mom, I must say that this series has reached a level of reader that often couldn't (or wouldn't) tackle Harry Potter, or who weren't into fantasy. Greg, the main character, is so self-centered and clueless that his first-person narration is hilarious. Kids are smart enough to realize that he is not a role model. They can also appreciate exxageration. ALL the things that happen--unfair teachers, sneaky parents--may not realistically happen to someone, but that's why this is FICTION. As a parent, you might want to discuss some of the issues in the "Parents need to know..." section, but don't spoil your kids' enjoyment of these books by making a moral lesson out of them. They're FUNNY! Read one and try not to laugh. Aso, as mentioned, the pictures are brilliant, and the diary-and-cartoon format has already inspired lots of kids to try their hands at authorship. At a time when we are complaining that there aren't enough boys reading, and too many kids are addicted to video games, let's be glad there are some books they are really excited to read. And get ready to give them another book when they're done. I think Common Sense Media does a great job of reviewing kids media, but they may have missed how excited kids are about these books!