Diary of a wimpy kid: No brainer by Jeff Kinney

Even though this is the eighteenth book in the Diary of a Wimpy kid series Kinney has managed to bring us another great story about Greg Heffley and his experiences in Middle school.  This time Greg faces the fact that his crumbling school may be closing because the school has had the lowest scores in the state for the standardised tests.  Inside the diary Greg takes us on a journey that the school takes to cut costs and raise money to keep the school open.  He complains about a Latin teacher who doesn't even speak Latin, the problems with Hall passes, the lack of stationary and the reasons behind the empty Library shelves, as well as the invention of the highly prized Fudgedogs from the canteen. On a serious note, the book does attempt to cover many of the real difficulties schools are facing today, especially budget cuts, sponsorship by companies outside the school system and poor student engagement. Cartoon-style illustrations throughout the book are so entertaining, giving the reader more insights into what is happening to Greg and his friends at school.  The authenticity of Greg's voice throughout keeps a smile on your face as you read and there are many genuine laugh out loud moments that will be enjoyed by young readers and adults alike.

Themes: Diaries, Friendship, Middle-schooling, Protests.

Gabrielle Anderson