15 Top Childhood Books Like Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series in 2025

If your child If you loved Diary of a Wimpy Kid, but can’t get enough of Greg Heffley’s hilarious misadventures in Diary of a Wimpy Kid, you’re not alone. Many parents struggle to find similar Books Like Diary of a Wimpy Kid that combine humor, relatable characters, and easy-to-read formats to keep kids hooked.

This guide curates 15 top picks for 2025, handpicked for their laugh-out-loud moments, kid-friendly themes, and ability to spark a love for reading. Whether you’re searching for graphic novels, journals, or silly stories, we’ve got you covered—let’s find your child’s next favorite book!

Books Like Diary of a Wimpy Kid

If you are searching for books like diary of a wimpy kid, you are in the right place. These series bring you the same laugh-out-loud moments, quirky characters, and fun illustrations that make reading so much fun. You will find diary-style storytelling, relatable humor, and middle-school adventures in every book. Let’s jump into some of the best picks!

Diary of a 5th Grade Outlaw Series

Meet Robin Loxley, a fifth grader with a knack for bending the rules and standing up for her friends. This series takes you on a wild ride through school hallways, playground showdowns, and clever plans. If you love stories about friendship, a bit of rebellion, and lots of laughs, you will want to read every book in this series.

Diary of a 5th Grade Outlaw Book 1

Robin faces her biggest challenge yet—winning back her best friend. You get to see her clever tricks and how she handles school drama. The story feels real and funny, just like the best books like diary of a wimpy kid.

Diary of a 5th Grade Outlaw Book 2

Robin’s adventures continue as she tries to outsmart the school’s toughest rules. You will cheer for her as she finds creative ways to help her friends and keep things interesting.

Diary of a 5th Grade Outlaw Book 3

In this book, Robin’s plans get even bigger. She faces new rivals and learns what it means to be a true friend. The mix of humor and heart makes this a must-read.

Diary of a 5th Grade Outlaw Book 4

Robin’s team faces a new challenge at school. You will love the clever twists and the way Robin never gives up, even when things get tough.

Diary of a 5th Grade Outlaw Book 5

The stakes are higher than ever. Robin must use all her skills to save her friendships and keep the fun alive. This book wraps up the first arc with plenty of laughs and surprises.

The Friend Thief Arc (Books 6–10)

Robin’s story continues with even more excitement. The Friend Thief Arc brings new characters, bigger challenges, and lots of mischief. If you enjoy stories about loyalty, teamwork, and outsmarting the odds, you will want to read every book in this arc.

Tip: The illustrations and diary-style entries make these books easy to read and super fun to follow!

NERDS Series

The NERDS (National Espionage, Rescue, and Defense Society) series turns ordinary kids into secret agents. Each book is packed with gadgets, wild missions, and plenty of laughs. If you like stories with action, humor, and a team of unforgettable characters, you will love this series.

M Is for Mama’s Boy

The team faces a villain who is not what he seems. You get to see how each NERD uses their unique skills to save the day. The story mixes school life with spy adventures, making it a blast to read.

Cheerleaders of Doom

A new threat appears, and the NERDS must work together to stop it. The book is full of clever jokes, fast-paced action, and lots of surprises. You will not want to put it down.

Villain Virus

A mysterious virus turns people into villains. The NERDS have to solve the mystery before it’s too late. The story keeps you guessing and laughing at every turn.

Attack of the Bullies

The NERDS face their toughest challenge yet—bullies who have gone too far. You will root for the team as they use brains and bravery to save their school.

Note: The NERDS series stands out for its diary-style humor, quirky characters, and lighthearted mischief—just like your favorite books like diary of a wimpy kid.

Desmond Pucket Series

Desmond Pucket loves monsters, pranks, and making people laugh. This series is perfect if you enjoy fast-paced stories with lots of illustrations and a main character who always finds trouble.

Makes Monster Magic

Desmond tries to pull off the ultimate monster prank at school. The book is filled with hand-drawn doodles, big text, and funny journal entries. You will find the story easy to read and hard to put down. The humor and illustrations make every page exciting.

Mountain Full of Monsters

Desmond heads to a spooky mountain for a school trip. He faces new challenges and comes up with wild ideas to keep things interesting. The story moves quickly and keeps you laughing from start to finish.

Cloverfield Junior High Carnival of Horrors

Desmond’s adventures reach a new level at the school carnival. You get to see even more pranks, monsters, and hilarious moments. The book’s short chapters and fun drawings make it perfect for readers who want a quick, engaging story.

The Desmond Pucket books shine because of their abundant, hand-drawn illustrations and fast-paced, humorous storytelling. Desmond’s journal entries add a personal touch that makes you feel like you are right there with him.

If you are looking for books like diary of a wimpy kid, these series will keep you entertained with their humor, relatable characters, and creative storytelling. Dive in and discover your next favorite adventure!

The Terrible Two Series

If you love pranks, clever plans, and laugh-out-loud moments, you need to check out The Terrible Two series by Mac Barnett and Jory John. This series brings you right into the world of Miles Murphy, a new kid in town who thinks he’s the best prankster around. But then he meets Niles Sparks, the school’s secret prank master. What happens next? A prank war that will keep you guessing and giggling!

The Terrible Two series stands out because it mixes humor, friendship, and a little bit of mischief—just like books like diary of a wimpy kid. You get to see how Miles and Niles go from rivals to partners, teaming up for the most epic pranks their school has ever seen. The authors use a funny, lighthearted style that makes every page a joy to read. If you enjoy stories about friendship and outsmarting the grown-ups, you’ll want to read every book in this series.

The Terrible Two

This is where it all begins. Miles moves to Yawnee Valley and expects to rule the school with his pranking skills. But Niles is already one step ahead. Their prank war is full of surprises, and you’ll love seeing how they try to outdo each other. The story is packed with jokes, silly situations, and clever twists.

Get Worse

Just when you think things can’t get crazier, Miles and Niles take their pranks to a whole new level. The principal is on their trail, and the stakes are higher than ever. You’ll find yourself rooting for the boys as they try to pull off their biggest prank yet. The friendship between Miles and Niles grows, making the story even more fun.

Go Wild

Miles and Niles head to a leadership camp, but they can’t leave their pranking ways behind. The camp is full of new challenges, strange rules, and plenty of chances for mischief. You’ll laugh at their wild ideas and the chaos they create. This book shows that even outside of school, the pranksters never stop.

Last Laugh

The final book in the series brings everything together. Miles and Niles face their toughest challenge, and you’ll see if their friendship—and their pranking—can survive. The ending is both funny and heartwarming, making it a perfect finish for fans of books like diary of a wimpy kid.

If you enjoy stories where kids outsmart adults and pull off hilarious pranks, The Terrible Two series is a must-read. The humor and friendship will remind you of your favorite moments from Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

Blood Diaries: Tales of a 6th-Grade Vampire

Ever wondered what it would be like to be a vampire in middle school? Blood Diaries: Tales of a 6th-Grade Vampire by Marissa Moss gives you a peek into Edgar’s not-so-ordinary life. Edgar is just like any other sixth grader—except for the fangs, the thirst for blood, and the need to keep his secret hidden from classmates.

This book uses a diary format, so you get to read Edgar’s thoughts, worries, and hilarious mishaps. He deals with school projects, gym class, and even crushes, all while trying to hide his vampire identity. The story is funny, a little spooky, and super relatable. If you like books like diary of a wimpy kid but want a twist of supernatural fun, you’ll love following Edgar’s adventures.

Tip: The doodles and diary entries make this book easy to read and extra entertaining!

The Secrets to Ruling School (Without Even Trying)

Do you want to know how to survive middle school and maybe even rule it? The Secrets to Ruling School (Without Even Trying) by Tyler Whipple is your ultimate guide. You follow Max Corrigan, a middle school expert who knows every trick in the book. Max shares his secrets for making friends, avoiding trouble, and staying cool—all with a big dose of humor.

Here’s what makes this book stand out for fans of illustrated school-life stories:

Element	Description
Narrative	You follow Max Corrigan as he navigates middle school, sharing relatable and funny experiences.
How-to Elements	Max gives you practical advice for surviving school, perfect if you like learning new tricks.
Illustrated Format	The book is filled with engaging visuals by Neil Swaab, making every page fun to look at and read.

You’ll find yourself laughing at Max’s wild ideas and maybe even picking up a few tips for your own school adventures. The mix of advice, humor, and illustrations makes this book a great pick if you’re searching for books like diary of a wimpy kid.

Note: If you enjoy books that feel like a friend is giving you advice (with lots of doodles), this one is for you!

School! Adventures at Harvey N. Trouble Elementary

Get ready for a wild ride at Harvey N. Trouble Elementary! This book by Kate McMullan takes you inside a school where anything can happen. The students and teachers are full of surprises, and every day brings a new adventure. You’ll meet unforgettable characters, laugh at the silly situations, and maybe even wish your school was this much fun.

The story uses short chapters, funny illustrations, and lots of action to keep you turning the pages. If you want a book that’s easy to read and packed with laughs, this is a great choice. Fans of books like diary of a wimpy kid will feel right at home with the chaos and comedy at Harvey N. Trouble Elementary.

Don’t be surprised if you find yourself wishing your school had a little more trouble after reading this one!

School! Adventures at Harvey N. Trouble Elementary

If you ever wished your school days were a little wilder, you need to check out School! Adventures at Harvey N. Trouble Elementary. This book throws you right into a school where every day feels like a new adventure. You meet students who pull off hilarious stunts and teachers who never seem to have things under control. The story moves fast, and you never know what will happen next.

You’ll love how the book mixes short chapters with funny illustrations. These drawings pop up everywhere, making the story feel alive. You might find yourself laughing at a silly picture or a joke hidden in the margins. The style reminds you of the fun combinations of text and art that made Diary of a Wimpy Kid so popular. If you like lively stories with lots of action, this book delivers.

Tip: The short chapters make it easy to read a little at a time, but you’ll probably want to keep going to see what chaos happens next!

Let’s see why so many readers enjoy this book:

• The story uses a diary-like format with plenty of doodles and jokes.
• The characters feel real, but their adventures are just wild enough to keep you guessing.
• The humor is perfect for anyone who likes pranks, surprises, and a bit of harmless trouble.
• The book fits right in with other favorites like Dog Man, Big Nate, and Timmy Failure. All these books share a style that mixes lively text with charming illustrations.

You might notice that books like diary of a wimpy kid have started a trend. Kids want stories that make them laugh and show school life in a fun way. School! Adventures at Harvey N. Trouble Elementary does exactly that. It’s a great pick if you want something quick, funny, and full of surprises.

So, if you’re looking for a book that feels like a wild ride through the halls of a not-so-ordinary school, give this one a try. You might even wish your own school had a little more trouble!

More Books Like Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Dog Man Series by Dav Pilkey

If you want a book that makes you laugh out loud and keeps you flipping pages, you should check out the Dog Man series by Dav Pilkey. Dog Man is a dog-human hybrid who works as a police officer. He gets into all sorts of wild adventures, and every page bursts with comic-style drawings and silly jokes. The stories are easy to follow, and the pictures help bring every scene to life.

Dog Man stands out because it mixes humor with heart. You’ll see themes like kindness, friendship, and empathy woven into each story. The characters might be goofy, but they also show you how to care for others and do the right thing. If you love illustrated humor and want a series that’s both fun and meaningful, Dog Man is a perfect pick.

Tip: The flip-o-rama pages let you animate the action yourself—so you get to be part of the fun!

Cat Kid Comic Club by Dav Pilkey

Do you enjoy making your own comics or doodling in your notebook? Cat Kid Comic Club, also by Dav Pilkey, invites you into a world where creativity rules. The story follows Cat Kid and a group of tadpoles as they learn to create their own comics. Each chapter feels like a mini-lesson in drawing, storytelling, and having fun with your imagination.

You’ll love how the book switches between different comic styles and stories. The characters encourage each other to try new things, make mistakes, and keep going. If you want a book that inspires you to be creative and laugh at the same time, Cat Kid Comic Club is a great choice.

Note: This series is perfect if you like books that mix art, jokes, and a little bit of chaos!

Big Nate Series by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate is another awesome series for fans of books like diary of a wimpy kid. You follow Nate Wright, a sixth-grader who always seems to find trouble at school. He deals with teachers, rivals, and the ups and downs of middle school life. The stories are packed with comics, doodles, and hilarious moments.

Here’s what makes Big Nate so much fun:

• Nate faces challenges with teachers like Mrs. Godfrey and always finds a way to make you laugh.
• The humor feels real because it matches the social anxieties and awkward moments you might experience at school.
• Nate’s friendships and rivalries keep the story interesting and relatable.

If you want a book that shows the funny side of school and friendships, you’ll love following Nate’s adventures.

Fun Fact: Lincoln Peirce also wrote Max and the Midknights, another illustrated series full of laughs and adventure!

If you’re searching for more books that capture the spirit of middle school, friendship, and hilarious mishaps, these series will keep you entertained for hours.

Dork Diaries by Rachel Renée Russell

If you love Diary of a Wimpy Kid, you’ll probably find yourself hooked on Dork Diaries. You get to step into the shoes of Nikki Maxwell, a middle schooler who writes about her life in her own diary. Nikki’s world feels a lot like Greg Heffley’s, but with her own twist. She deals with school drama, friendships, and the ups and downs of growing up.

Here’s why Dork Diaries is a top pick for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid:

• The series uses relatable humor and engaging storytelling that makes you want to keep reading.
• You’ll see Nikki face typical middle school challenges, like dealing with secret crushes, rivalries, and her artistic dreams.
• The diary format, complete with doodles and sketches, lets you peek into Nikki’s thoughts and wild adventures.
• Nikki’s relationships with her mom and her biggest school rival add extra layers to the story.

You might laugh at Nikki’s embarrassing moments or cheer when she stands up for herself. The doodles and handwritten notes make every page feel personal and fun. If you want a book that mixes humor, heart, and real-life middle school moments, Dork Diaries is a must-read.

Tip: If you like stories about friendship, creativity, and surviving school, you’ll love following Nikki’s journey!

13-Story Treehouse Series by Andy Griffiths

Ready for something totally wild? The 13-Story Treehouse series takes you on a crazy ride with Andy and Terry, two friends who live in the world’s coolest treehouse. This isn’t just any treehouse—it has a bowling alley, a see-through swimming pool, and even a marshmallow machine!

You’ll notice right away that these books have a perfect mix of minimal text and tons of black-and-white drawings. The pages burst with jokes, action, and silly cartoons. Every chapter brings a new surprise, like flying cats or a giant gorilla searching for bananas. The stories move fast, and the illustrations keep you laughing.

The adventures feel wacky and zany, almost magical. The writing and pictures work together to pull you into a world where anything can happen. If you want a book that’s easy to read, full of energy, and guaranteed to make you giggle, the 13-Story Treehouse series is a fantastic choice.

Note: The fun cartoons on every page make this series perfect for anyone who loves to laugh and use their imagination!

Timmy Failure Series by Stephan Pastis

Meet Timmy Failure, the world’s most clueless detective—and maybe the funniest. You’ll follow Timmy as he tries to solve mysteries with his polar bear sidekick, Total. Timmy believes he’s a genius, but he misses the most obvious clues, which makes his adventures even more hilarious.

Stephan Pastis, who also created the comic strip Pearls Before Swine, fills these books with droll, playful humor. You’ll find straightforward jokes, bits of irony, and plenty of sarcasm. The story feels off-the-wall and slapstick, but it also has moments that tug at your heart. Timmy’s struggles and insecurities give the story surprising depth.

Almost every page has a black-and-white illustration that adds to the laughs. You’ll see Timmy’s wild ideas come to life in these funny drawings. If you want a book that’s laugh-out-loud funny and a little bit touching, Timmy Failure is the way to go.

Pro tip: If you enjoy stories about underdogs, silly mysteries, and lots of visual gags, you’ll want to join Timmy on his next case!

Stick Dog Series by Tom Watson

If you love silly adventures and doodle-style art, you’ll want to check out the Stick Dog series by Tom Watson. Stick Dog and his friends go on wild quests for food, like chasing after hamburgers or hot dogs. The stories feel simple, but the humor and teamwork make them stand out.

You’ll notice the drawings look like stick figures. That’s on purpose! Tom Watson starts with his own sketches, then illustrator Ethan Long finishes them up. The result is a style that feels fun and easy to follow. The pictures show a lot of action and help you imagine the story.

“I do all the original sketches for the story and then send them to Ethan Long who is a world-class illustrator. He takes them and finishes them up. He uses my style – if you can call stick-figure drawing a style – but just cleans them up. He can show motion way better than me. I love that he can do that. It’s a partnership. He makes the books better, that’s all I care about.”

You’ll laugh at the goofy plans Stick Dog and his friends come up with. The simple art makes the story feel like something you could draw yourself. If you want a book that’s easy to read and full of laughs, Stick Dog is a great pick.

Amelia’s Notebook by Marissa Moss

Do you like stories that feel like a real diary? Amelia’s Notebook by Marissa Moss gives you just that. You get to peek into Amelia’s life as she writes and draws about her everyday adventures. The pages look like a real notebook, filled with doodles, lists, and honest thoughts.

Here’s why Amelia’s Notebook stands out for readers like you:

• Amelia is a relatable character who faces challenges like moving, friendship issues, and family changes, which resonate with young readers.
• The series addresses sensitive topics such as divorce and transitioning to new schools, making it relevant for children experiencing similar situations.
• The humor and insight in Amelia’s experiences help children feel understood and encourage them to express their own feelings through journaling.

You might see yourself in Amelia’s stories. She deals with real problems but always finds a way to laugh or learn something new. The diary format makes it easy to jump in and out, and the drawings add a personal touch. If you enjoy books that mix art and writing, you’ll love following Amelia’s journey.

My Life as a Book by Janet Tashjian

If you want a story that mixes humor, mystery, and cartoons, try My Life as a Book by Janet Tashjian. You’ll meet Derek Fallon, a boy who would rather do anything than read during summer break. His mom gives him a reading list, but Derek finds a bigger mystery to solve—a family secret from the past.

What makes this book special? Derek draws cartoons in the margins to help him remember new words. You get to see his doodles and thoughts as you read. The story moves quickly, and the pictures make it even more fun. You’ll laugh at Derek’s wild ideas and root for him as he tries to solve the mystery.

If you like books that feel like a mix of diary, comic, and adventure, My Life as a Book is a must-read. The story shows that reading can be an adventure, especially when you add your own twist.

Tom Gates Series by Liz Pichon

If you want a book that feels like a peek into someone’s real life, you should try the Tom Gates series by Liz Pichon. You follow Tom, a creative and slightly mischievous kid, as he deals with school, family, and his own wild imagination. The pages burst with doodles, funny notes, and lists that make you feel like you’re reading Tom’s actual notebook.

Why do so many kids love Tom Gates? Here are a few reasons:

• You’ll see Tom’s everyday school adventures, from dealing with teachers to surviving boring lessons.
• The stories show what it’s like to grow up, with all the excitement and challenges that come with it.
• Tom’s family life is hilarious, especially when he squabbles with his sister Delia. If you have a sibling, you’ll probably recognize some of their battles!
• The books mix humor and heart, making you laugh while also showing how Tom dreams big and tries to figure out who he is.
• The illustrations make every page fun to look at. You’ll find yourself flipping through just to see what Tom draws next.

Tip: If you enjoy books that combine funny writing with cool drawings, Tom Gates will keep you entertained for hours.

Captain Underpants Series by Dav Pilkey

Ready for some super silly fun? The Captain Underpants series by Dav Pilkey is a classic for anyone who loves wild adventures and goofy jokes. You meet George and Harold, two prank-loving kids who accidentally turn their principal into a superhero wearing only underpants. The stories get crazier with every book!

What makes Captain Underpants stand out?

• The humor is all about pranks, potty jokes, and silly situations. You’ll probably laugh out loud at least once per chapter.
• The comic book style illustrations make the action pop. If you find regular chapter books tough, these pictures help you follow the story and stay interested.
• Dav Pilkey includes misspelled words in the comics George and Harold create. This feels real and can help you feel more confident if you struggle with spelling or reading.

Note: Flip-o-rama pages let you animate the action yourself. You get to control the story and make it even funnier!

Jake the Fake Series by Craig Robinson

If you’ve ever felt like you don’t fit in, Jake the Fake is a book you’ll want to read. Jake fakes his way into a fancy arts academy, but he quickly realizes he’s not as talented as everyone else. He calls his sister “the Unicorn” because she seems perfect, and he feels like a “lonely weirdo” trying to keep up.

Jake’s story is both funny and relatable. You see him struggle with self-identity and try to find his place among talented classmates. The rivalry with his sister adds extra laughs, especially when Jake tries to outdo her. The book shows you that it’s okay to feel unsure or scared sometimes. Jake’s journey is full of exaggerated family drama and friendship troubles, but you’ll recognize the real feelings underneath.

If you want a book that mixes comedy with real-life worries, Jake the Fake will make you laugh and think at the same time.

Planet Omar Series by Zanib Mian

If you want a book that feels real and funny at the same time, you should check out the Planet Omar series by Zanib Mian. You get to step into Omar’s shoes as he starts at a new school, faces challenges, and tries to make friends. Omar’s world is full of imagination, doodles, and laugh-out-loud moments, but it also shows what it’s like to feel different or nervous in a new place.

Omar’s story begins when his family moves to a new neighborhood. He feels worried about fitting in at school. You see him deal with teasing, the fear of bullies, and the pressure to win competitions. These moments might remind you of your own school days. Omar doesn’t always have the answers, but he keeps trying. His creative ideas and wild imagination help him face tough situations. You’ll find yourself cheering for him as he learns to stand up for himself and stay true to his values.

“Omar’s adventures show you that it’s okay to feel scared or unsure. What matters is how you handle those feelings and keep going.”

The series does more than just make you laugh. It talks about important topics like prejudice and understanding others. Omar sometimes faces people who judge him before they know him. Instead of getting angry, he tries to show kindness and patience. You watch as he builds friendships with classmates and neighbors, even when things start off rocky. These stories help you see why it’s important to look past first impressions and get to know people for who they really are.

Here’s what makes Planet Omar stand out:

• Relatable School Life: You see Omar struggle with homework, teachers, and making friends. His worries feel just like yours.
• Imaginative Storytelling: Omar’s daydreams and doodles fill the pages. You get to see the world through his eyes.
• Big Themes: The books talk about bullying, prejudice, and the power of kindness. You learn how to handle tough situations with courage.
• Family and Friendship: Omar’s family supports him, and his friendships grow stronger with every adventure.

If you like books that mix humor with real-life lessons, Planet Omar is a great pick. The stories are easy to read, full of funny drawings, and packed with heart. You’ll laugh, think, and maybe even see yourself in Omar’s journey. Give this series a try—you might discover a new favorite hero!

Why Kids Love Books Like Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Humor and Laugh-Out-Loud Moments

You probably love to laugh, right? That’s one big reason you keep coming back to books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid. These stories pack in jokes, silly situations, and funny drawings that make you giggle on every page. When you read about Greg’s wild ideas or Nikki’s embarrassing moments, you can’t help but smile. Humor makes reading feel less like homework and more like hanging out with a friend.

Did you know that laughing while you read actually helps your brain? Check out this table to see how humor in books can help you:

Benefit	Description
Increased Engagement	Funny stories grab your attention and make you want to read more.
Enhanced Cognitive Development	Jokes and silly moments help you remember what you read.
Emotional Regulation	Laughing at a story can help you feel better when you’re stressed or worried.
Improved Social Interactions	Sharing funny books with friends helps you connect and build friendships.
Therapeutic Effects	Enjoying a good laugh can make you feel less embarrassed or anxious about school stuff.

So, when you pick up a book that makes you laugh, you’re not just having fun—you’re also helping your mind and your mood!

Relatable School Life

You might notice that the best books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid always take place in school or at home. That’s because you know what it’s like to deal with teachers, homework, and classmates. When you read about Greg trying to survive gym class or Omar worrying about making friends, it feels real. You see your own life in these stories.

These books show you that everyone has awkward moments, tough days, and funny fails. You realize you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve had a prank go wrong or felt nervous about a big test. When you see characters go through the same things, it helps you feel understood. You can laugh at their mistakes and learn from them, too.

Illustrated and Diary Formats

Have you ever opened a book and found doodles, comics, or handwritten notes? That’s what makes these stories so much fun to read. The pictures break up the text, so you don’t get bored. You can flip through the pages and spot something new every time.

Diary and comic formats make you feel like you’re reading someone’s secret journal. You get to peek into their thoughts, see their drawings, and follow their adventures up close. This style makes reading easier and more exciting, especially if you don’t always love big blocks of text.

Books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Dork Diaries, and Tom Gates use this style to pull you in. You get to see the story from the main character’s point of view. The mix of words and pictures keeps things lively and helps you understand the story better. If you like to draw or keep a journal, these books might even inspire you to start your own!

Building Reading Confidence

You might wonder how reading funny, illustrated books can help you feel more confident about reading. The answer is simple. When you pick up a book like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, you get pulled into a story that feels easy and enjoyable. You see doodles, short chapters, and jokes that make you want to keep turning the pages. You don’t have to worry about long paragraphs or complicated words. The story moves quickly, and you get to laugh along with the characters.

Many kids feel nervous when they see a big book with lots of text. You might think, “Can I finish this?” Books with diary formats and illustrations break down those barriers. You start reading, and before you know it, you’re halfway through. You realize you can do it. That feeling gives you a boost. You start to believe in yourself as a reader.

Teachers and experts have noticed this change. When kids read books they enjoy, their confidence grows. You don’t just read because you have to. You read because you want to. That makes a huge difference. Crispin Chatterton, an education director, says that when you get support and find books you like, you start to enjoy reading more. Professor Keith Topping points out that having time set aside for reading and using tools like Accelerated Reader helps you build good habits.

Let’s look at some numbers that show how enjoyment and confidence go hand in hand:

Evidence Type	Description
Enjoyment Rate	37% of pupils eligible for Free School Meals using Accelerated Reader enjoy reading, compared to 32% of their peers.
Gender Disparity	31% of boys using Accelerated Reader report enjoyment, versus 27% of non-participants.
Overall Impact	Structured support through programs like Accelerated Reader is helping to close the enjoyment gap among disadvantaged pupils.

You see, when you find a book that makes you laugh or lets you relate to the characters, you want to read more. That’s how you get better. You start with one book, then another, and soon you’re reading all kinds of stories. You build skills without even noticing. Your reading speed improves. You understand more words. You feel proud when you finish a book.

Here are a few ways these books help you grow as a reader:

• You get to practice reading in a fun way, so it doesn’t feel like a chore.
• You learn new words from the context, especially when you see them in doodles or jokes.
• You gain confidence every time you finish a chapter or a whole book.
• You share your favorite stories with friends, which makes reading even more exciting.
• You discover that everyone can be a reader, no matter where you start.

So, if you ever feel unsure about reading, try picking up a book with lots of pictures and humor. You might surprise yourself. The more you read, the more confident you become. Before long, you’ll be reaching for bigger books and new adventures.

How to Start Reading These Books

Using Epic for Kids’ Reading

You want to jump into these awesome books, right? Epic makes it super easy for you. Epic is a digital reading platform just for kids. You can find all your favorite books, comics, and even audiobooks in one place. You don’t need to wait for a trip to the library or worry about losing a book. Everything is right at your fingertips.

Here’s what makes Epic stand out:

Feature	Description
Vast Library	Over 40,000 titles, including picture books, chapter books, graphic novels, and audiobooks.
Learning Videos	Watch educational videos that make learning fun and interactive.
Read-to-Me Feature	Listen to stories read aloud—perfect if you’re just starting out or want to hear a story.
Quizzes and Assessments	Test your understanding with quizzes after you finish a book.
Badges and Rewards	Earn badges for reading milestones and achievements.
Progress Tracking	Your parents or teachers can see how much you’ve read and what you enjoy most.
Personalized Recommendations	Get book suggestions based on what you like to read.
Offline Reading	Download books and read them anywhere, even without Wi-Fi.
Multiplatform Access	Use Epic on iPads, Android devices, or desktops—whatever works best for you.
Homeschool/Classroom Integration	Teachers and parents can assign books and track your progress easily.

You can start by searching for a book you already love, or let Epic suggest something new. The platform learns what you like and gives you recommendations, so you’ll always have something exciting to read. If you want to read on the go, just download your books and take them anywhere—even on a road trip or vacation.

Tip: Try the “Read-to-Me” feature if you want to listen to a story while you follow along. It’s a great way to build your reading skills!

Sharing and Discovering Favorites

Reading is even more fun when you share it with friends or family. Epic helps you discover new favorites and lets you show off what you’re reading. You can join in on reading challenges, earn badges, and even create your own book collections.

Here are some ways you can make reading social and exciting:

• Build your own collection of favorite books and share it with classmates or siblings.
• Take part in reading games and challenges to see who can read the most or try the most new genres.
• Earn badges for hitting reading goals—these little rewards make you want to keep going!
• Set aside a special time each day for reading. You can read with your family or have a quiet moment to yourself.

Teachers and parents can also help you discover new books. They might assign you a book companion with questions to answer, or encourage you to make a presentation about your favorite story. You can even give feedback on books you’ve read, helping others find their next great read.

Epic’s personalized recommendations mean you’ll always find something that matches your interests. If you love funny stories, adventure, or comics, Epic will suggest books just for you. You never know—you might find a new favorite series you can’t stop talking about!

Remember: The more you read and share, the more fun you’ll have. Reading isn’t just about finishing a book—it’s about discovering new worlds and connecting with others who love stories as much as you do.

Conclusion

You’ve got a whole list of funny, illustrated books to try next! Pick one that grabs your attention and start reading today. If you find a new favorite, share this post with your friends or family. Tell everyone about the stories that made you laugh the most. Reading these books brings joy and helps you see school life in a new way. Drop a comment below with your top picks or any suggestions. Your voice matters here!

FAQ

What age group are these books best for?

You will enjoy these books if you are between 8 and 13 years old. The stories fit middle grade readers, but anyone who loves funny, illustrated books can join the fun.

Can I read these books on Epic for free?

You can read many of these books on Epic with a free trial or through your school account. Ask your teacher or parent to help you get started.

Are these books good for reluctant readers?

Yes! These books use lots of pictures, short chapters, and funny stories. You will find them easy to read and hard to put down.

Do I need to read the series in order?

You can start with any book, but reading in order helps you follow the characters’ adventures. If you jump in the middle, you will still have fun.

Can I find audiobooks for these series?

Epic offers some of these books as audiobooks. You can listen while you read or just enjoy the story. Check the Epic app for options.

How do I share my favorite books with friends?

You can tell your friends about your favorite books or create a collection on Epic. Ask your teacher to help you share your list with your class.