If your middle-grade reader liked Diary of a Wimpy Kid, they might also like…

• Big Nate: In a Class by Himself

• The Terrible Two

• Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made

• Dork Diaries

Each book delivers laugh-out-loud humour, relatable school mishaps, and short, accessible chapters that keep even reluctant readers turning pages.

Here’s what they’re about

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Greg Heffley just wants to survive middle school with his dignity intact — which turns out to be nearly impossible. Through cartoon-style journal entries, Greg documents awkward friendships, embarrassing moments, and his constant attempts to climb the social ladder. Alongside his well-meaning but clueless best friend Rowley, Greg navigates family life, school disasters, and his own questionable decision-making. Funny, fast-paced, and brutally honest, this book captures the everyday drama of growing up, making it especially appealing to reluctant readers and kids who love humour rooted in real life.

Big Nate: In a Class by Himself

Nate Wright is convinced he’s destined for greatness — he just has to survive school first. Through comic strips and short chapters, Nate tackles teachers who don’t “get” him, friendships that get complicated, and his own overconfidence. Big, bold, and bursting with humour, Big Nate blends visual storytelling with relatable school struggles. It’s a fantastic choice for readers who enjoy comics, jokes, and characters who aren’t perfect but are endlessly entertaining.

The Terrible Two

Miles Murphy is determined to be the best prankster at his new school — until he meets a rival who may be even better. Forced into an uneasy partnership, the two boys escalate their tricks into a battle of wits that soon becomes something more meaningful. Funny, clever, and full of inventive pranks, this book blends mystery with humour and heart. It’s a great pick for readers who love smart mischief, school-based stories, and plots where creativity rules.

Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made

Timmy Failure is the founder, president, and CEO of his own detective agency — even if his cases rarely go to plan. Armed with confidence, questionable logic, and his polar bear partner Total, Timmy tackles mysteries while misunderstanding almost everything around him. The humour comes fast and dry, paired with simple illustrations that enhance the comedy. This series is ideal for readers who love absurd situations, deadpan narration, and protagonists who are hilariously unaware of their own shortcomings.

Dork Diaries

Told through diary entries filled with doodles, Dork Diaries follows Nikki Maxwell as she navigates middle school drama, friendships, crushes, and rivalries. Nikki’s voice is relatable, honest, and funny, capturing the ups and downs of fitting in and finding confidence. With plenty of illustrations and bite-sized chapters, the series is highly accessible. It’s especially popular with readers who enjoy school stories, social dilemmas, and humour rooted in everyday life.