Draft:Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hot Mess (2)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hot Mess
AuthorJeff Kinney
IllustratorJeff Kinney
SeriesDiary of a Wimpy Kid
GenreChildren's literature
Graphic novel
Publication date
October 22, 2024
Publication placeUnited States
Pages224
ISBN978-1419766954
Preceded byNo Brainer 
Website[1]

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hot Mess is the 19th book in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series written and illustrated by Jeff Kinney. It is a sequel to No Brainer. the hardcover was released on October 22, 2024.[2]

Plot

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The Heffley family embarks on a chaotic adventure when Greg’s grandmother makes a simple yet unusual birthday request: she wishes for a family photograph featuring her five daughters and their respective families, taken on Ruttyneck Island—their traditional vacation spot from when her children were young. However, she insists on one condition: she will not be joining them, urging the family to undertake the trip without her. Though puzzled by her absence, the family decides to fulfill her wish, anticipating a nostalgic and enjoyable getaway.

The Heffleys and their extended family—13 people in total—arrive on Ruttyneck Island and settle into a modest vacation house equipped with only a single bathroom and a compact kitchen, where opening the refrigerator and oven simultaneously proves impossible. Despite initial reservations, Greg’s mother expresses optimism about the “bonding experience” this setup promises. The family engages in classic vacation activities: days are spent on the beach, large pots of spaghetti are cooked for dinner, board games are played (often ending in disputes), and visits to the island’s historic lighthouse bring back fond memories.

Although the family aims for a relaxing vacation, various incidents ensue. Minor mishaps, such as a seagull stealing a sandwich, soon evolve into a series of escalating disruptions. Greg’s friend Rowley unintentionally attracts a group of raccoons that linger on the porch, Greg’s father repeatedly loses his way back to the house (despite the island’s small size), and Uncle Gary’s “famous beach barbeque” culminates in an unintended commotion, triggering smoke alarms in three neighboring cabins.

As events spiral further out of control, the family ultimately finds themselves involved in a misunderstanding at the island’s souvenir shop, requiring them to “resolve matters at the local police station.” By the time the family finally captures the long-awaited photograph for Grandma, they are visibly worn out—and humorously adorned in seagull feathers.

Reception

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The book received generally positive reviews. Common Sense Media gave the book 3 out of 5 stars.[3] It has 4.49/5.00 stars on Goodreads as of 9th November 2024.[4]

References

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