Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot by Jeff Kinney is the sixteenth book in the series and focuses on Greg Heffley’s latest misadventure—navigating the world of sports. When Greg reluctantly joins his middle school’s basketball team, he quickly realizes that he’s not exactly the star athlete. From trying to survive brutal practices to dealing with a series of embarrassing moments on the court, Greg’s journey through the basketball season is filled with both laughs and struggles. As always, Greg's attempts to avoid humiliation and his hilarious commentary on sports culture keep the story engaging.
Overall, I’d give this book a four out of five because it adds a fresh perspective to Greg’s usual misadventures by diving into the competitive and often pressure-filled world of school sports. Kinney does a great job of capturing the awkwardness and anxiety that many kids feel when they’re thrown into an activity they’re not good at, making Greg’s experiences in basketball relatable and funny. The humor is on point, and there are plenty of moments that will resonate with readers who’ve ever felt out of place in sports or other competitive environments. The main thing I like about this book is how it tackles Greg’s insecurities and frustrations about not being naturally talented at sports, which is a universal feeling for many kids. The book delivers plenty of laughs but also subtly touches on themes like perseverance and trying new things even when you're not great at them. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot earns a solid 4 out of 5 for its entertaining storyline, relatable humor, and refreshing take on Greg’s struggles with sports. It’s a great addition to the series that will connect with both long-time fans and newcomers alike.