The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney (2009, Hardcover)

Jeff Kinney's "Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw" is the third in a series of books that are designed to look as if they were written and illustrated by Greg Heffley, "The Wimpy Kid," a wise-cracking, self-centered, middle-schooler whose life is filled with suburban misadventures. He has an over-sized head, a prominent nose and three strands of hair. If the other two installments are any indication, many non-reading children, especially boys, may finally be willing to pick up a book.

"The Last Straw" opens with Greg's entry on resolutions to make himself a better person: "Well, the problem is, it's not easy for me to think of ways to improve myself, because I'm already pretty much one of the best people I know." His family consists of an older and younger brother who cause all the problems- as he sees it. He has an enthusiastic mom who easily embarrasses him and a dad who's frustrated that Greg isn't a better athlete.

The over-riding joke throughout the book is that Greg is a deeply flawed protagonist. Some adults miss the joke and complain about Greg's shortcomings, but most kids understand that he isn't perfect and that is precisely why they like him.

Perhaps "The Last Straw's" greatest appeal is that many "reluctant readers"- especially boys, who generally seek entertainment from the Internet, television, and video games- are excited about reading this series. Adults will also find humor in the book, if they approach it with an open mind. The thing to bear in mind is that kids may laugh at Bart Simpson, but they know it isn't appropriate to act like him.