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francijo's review against another edition
4.0
Many adults disliked this book, saying the main character has "mental problems" or that the author tried to hard. Seriously. That's a middle school kid: unbalanced and trying way too hard! I think that's why it rings true to so many kids. Middle school is a time when things are bigger than life and every problem seems like the end of the world. I think it was a fine book, and one that will appeal to the kids who are its target audience. Parents should read it as a reminder of how life felt at that age!
julianina16's review against another edition
5.0
I read it when I was the targeted demographic which puts me in a position to say that I enjoyed it a lot (and whizzed through the entire series)-unlike the adults reviewing a book for children....
I empathised with Rafe as I saw myself similar in ways to him- he was an artist, struggled in school etc. I found the books funny when I read them and they still sit in on my bookshelf proudly among the more mature YA fiction that I then started reading along with my classics.
I was never much of a reader necessarily around the age of 11 and ended up stumbling into The series accidentally- it might be partly responsible for the reason that reading is such a large part of me now, and possibly without the series there wouldn’t be any books surrounding it on my now overflowing bookshelf.
I empathised with Rafe as I saw myself similar in ways to him- he was an artist, struggled in school etc. I found the books funny when I read them and they still sit in on my bookshelf proudly among the more mature YA fiction that I then started reading along with my classics.
I was never much of a reader necessarily around the age of 11 and ended up stumbling into The series accidentally- it might be partly responsible for the reason that reading is such a large part of me now, and possibly without the series there wouldn’t be any books surrounding it on my now overflowing bookshelf.
krytygr's review against another edition
funny
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.0
I liked it. It was entertaining. I felt for Rafe having to deal with his moms' crappy boyfriend, but he held his own when the time came for it. He also stood up to his school bully. Rafe was dealing with so much. It just goes to show that not everyone's life (at school or home) is perfect. That people struggle.. that KIDS struggle. I think sometimes, as adults, we forget that. This is a wonderful reminder that we can change things, even if it doesn't seem like it.
khozaine's review
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
juliemittan's review against another edition
3.0
Received this book as part of my Scholastic Book Club order...I see why my 6th graders enjoy it. Not a huge fan. Funny in parts. I would recommend it to my students who enjoy Diary of a Wimpy kid...
kkdemarco's review against another edition
4.0
I had been reluctant to read this book, but finally did because my reluctant readers (particularly boys) LOVE the series. And I ended up really liking it too! Rafe is an honest narrator who makes plenty of mistakes (and keeps making them), but ultimately cares about those around him. He's also pretty funny. I love the drawings as well - they would make a great conversation/conference topic with kids. Definitely recommended for kids who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Big Nate series, but need the next level.