Books Like Diary of a Wimpy Kid
by Jeff Kinney
If it was the deadpan, self-conscious middle-school cringe and comic-strip pacing of Diary of a Wimpy Kid that hooked you, you came to the right place. The books below deliver that same punchy, illustrated, laugh-out-loud diary energy — awkward schemes, messy friendships, and snackable chapters you'll inhale between classes.
Recommended for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Big Nate: In a Class by Himself
Lincoln Peirce
Comic-strip style humor about a mischievous, self-confident schoolboy and his antics.
Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life
Rachel Renée Russell
Diary-format, illustrated middle-grade voice focused on social drama and crushes.
Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life
James Patterson & Chris Tebbetts
Fast-paced, humorous tale of a kid rebelling against school rules with comics elements.
Tom Gates: Excellent Excuses (and Other Good Stuff)
Liz Pichon
Comic-doodled diary style full of school mishaps and dry British humor.
The Strange Case of Origami Yoda
Tom Angleberger
Quirky school-based humor with short chapters and a creative, offbeat premise.
The Terrible Two
Mac Barnett & Jory John
Prank-filled school rivalry with clever humor and quick, readable chapters.
Frindle
Andrew Clements
Lighthearted school-centered story about creativity, consequences, and funny escalation.
Wonder
R.J. Palacio
Warm, school-focused story with accessible voice and strong emotional payoff about belonging.
Amulet (Book 1): The Stonekeeper
Kazu Kibuishi
Illustrated, fast-moving graphic novel series that hooks reluctant readers with adventure.
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