The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney offers a humorous look at adolescence through the eyes of Greg Heffley, delivering laughs with relatable family and school scenarios. Readers praise its wit and engaging illustrations. Some feel the plot is repetitive, lacking depth. Overall, it's a delightful read for younger audiences and fans of the series, offering consistent charm and humor.

Ideal for middle schoolers, especially fans of humor and relatable school-life tales. Readers who enjoyed Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Dork Diaries will find The Last Straw engaging due to its comedic take on adolescence and growing up challenges.

The Last Straw, part of Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, follows a middle school student as he navigates challenges at home and school. The protagonist records daily life in a journal, highlighting family dynamics, friendships, and personal growth through humorous anecdotes.

- The Last Straw is the third book in Jeff Kinney's popular series Diary of a Wimpy Kid, which has been translated into over 65 languages, reflecting its broad international appeal.
- Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, including The Last Straw, was inspired by his own childhood experiences and his time drawing cartoons for his college newspaper.
- The book was released in 2009 and quickly became a bestseller, solidifying Jeff Kinney's reputation as a leading author of children's literature.

**Greg Heffley**  
A sixth-grader who is the protagonist and narrator, portrayed as small and skinny with three hairs on his head; his self-assuredness leads him into morally gray behavior as he tries to gain popularity and status.

**Rowley Jefferson**  
Greg's cheerful and trusting best friend, depicted with a square head and buckteeth; his playful and naive nature often makes him a target for Greg's schemes.

**Frank Heffley (Dad)**  
Greg’s dad, who threatens to send Greg to military school; he wants his sons to embody traditional masculine ideals and is embarrassed by their misbehavior.

**Rodrick Heffley**  
Greg’s teenage older brother with angry eyebrows and spiky hair, who constantly bullies Greg and is more interested in his heavy metal band than academics.

**Susan Heffley (Mom)**  
Greg’s mom, who often mediates family conflicts and suggests bonding activities; she embarrasses Greg by treating him like a child and being overly sappy in public.

**Manny Heffley**  
Greg’s toddler younger brother, who is often treated with special leniency by their parents; his naiveté and tantrums create household tension.

**Holly Hills**  
Greg’s classmate and crush, known as the fourth prettiest girl at school; she exhibits little interest in Greg and mistakes him for another student.

**Lenwood Heath**  
A teenager from the neighborhood whose bad behavior changed after attending military school, inspiring Frank's idea of disciplinary action for Greg.

Jeff Kinney

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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The Last Straw Summary and Study Guide

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The Last Straw Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “January”

Part 1 The Last Straw Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “February”

Part 2 The Last Straw Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “March”

Part 3 The Last Straw Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “April”

Part 4 The Last Straw Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “May” - Part 6: “June”

Parts 5-6

The Last Straw Parts 5-6 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Last Straw Character Analysis

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Themes

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Important Quotes

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The Last Straw

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