Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard Luck (Book 8)

This eighth installment in the beloved illustrated series finds Greg Heffley navigating the treacherous social landscape of middle school after his best friend, Rowley, ditches him. The central conflict of this humorous chapter book revolves around Greg's desperate and often misguided attempts to find a new social circle, leading to the kind of awkward, relatable scrapes that have made the series a staple for young readers. Kinney's signature blend of simple text and expressive cartoons perfectly captures the melodrama of adolescent friendships and the sting of social rejection.

What makes this entry particularly resonant is its focus on the universal theme of changing friendships, a developmental milestone that many children in the target age range are beginning to experience. Greg's misadventures provide a comedic, low-stakes lens through which readers can explore their own feelings about social dynamics and family relationships. The book’s accessible format and high-interest topic make it an excellent choice for reluctant readers seeking a funny, engaging story that genuinely understands the middle school mindset.