Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot (Book 16) by Jeff Kinney – Paperback |

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot – Greg Heffley Takes on Sports in This Hilarious Chapter Book Adventure

About the Book

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot takes readers on another laugh-filled journey with Greg Heffley, the lovable underdog who just can’t seem to catch a break. When Greg’s mom decides it’s time for him to get off the couch and join a sports team, chaos naturally follows. From disastrous tryouts to embarrassing game-day moments, Greg discovers that athletic glory isn’t quite what he imagined. With Jeff Kinney’s signature cartoon illustrations and witty storytelling, this 16th installment captures the awkwardness, humor, and heart of growing up.

From the Back Cover

After a winter spent indoors playing video games, Greg’s mom decides it’s time for him to get active. But finding the right sport isn’t easy when you’re not exactly the athletic type. Will Greg become the basketball star his mom hopes for, or will he find another way to make his mark?

About the Author

Jeff Kinney is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and six-time Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award winner for Favorite Book. He’s the creator of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, which has sold over 275 million copies worldwide and been translated into 78 languages. Jeff has been named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World and is also the founder of Poptropica, a virtual world for kids. His authentic voice and understanding of middle school struggles have made him a trusted author for families around the globe.

Who Is This Book For?

Big Shot is perfect for young readers aged 8-12 who love humor-packed stories about everyday school life. Whether your child is a reluctant reader who needs engaging content or a devoted Wimpy Kid fan collecting the entire series, this book delivers entertainment and relatability. Parents and teachers appreciate how these books encourage reading while addressing real-world topics like friendship, family dynamics, and self-confidence. It’s also an excellent choice for kids transitioning from picture books to chapter books, thanks to the illustrated format that keeps pages turning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need to read the previous Diary of a Wimpy Kid books to understand Big Shot?
No, each Wimpy Kid book works as a standalone story. While longtime fans will appreciate callbacks to earlier adventures, new readers can jump right into Big Shot and enjoy Greg’s sports comedy without missing a beat.

Q: What age is Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot appropriate for?
Big Shot is ideal for kids ages 8-12, typically 3rd through 7th graders. The humor appeals to both younger and older middle-grade readers, and the illustrated format makes it accessible for reluctant readers or those building reading confidence.

Q: Is this book available in hardcover or just paperback?
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot is available in both paperback and hardcover formats. This listing is for the paperback edition, which is lightweight, affordable, and perfect for young readers who want to take their book anywhere.

Q: How many pages is Big Shot and how long does it take to read?
Big Shot contains approximately 217 pages with illustrations throughout. Most kids can finish it in a few days to a week, depending on their reading pace. The engaging format with cartoons and dialogue makes it a quick, enjoyable read.

Q: Are the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books good for reluctant readers?
Absolutely! The Wimpy Kid series is specifically praised for engaging reluctant readers. The combination of illustrations, diary-style format, humor, and relatable situations keeps kids interested. Many parents and teachers report that these books helped their children develop a love for reading.