Leslie W. (kyyadifan) - , reviewed on 1/5/2013 + 60 more book reviews

As with all the books in the series, The Ugly Truth is told through the eyes of middle-schooler Greg Heffley. As with the previous books in the series, The Ugly Truth, does not disappoint in the laugh-out-loud, goofy antics and situations with which Greg constantly finds himself. Greg, the author of the diary (or journal as he prefers to call it), explains the frustrations of adolescence through his writings and illustrations. With the diary style of writing, Gregs stories are to the point with crisp, clear storytelling. The handwriting style font, to simulate Gregs writing in a diary, adds authenticity to the book. The cartoon illustrations not only clarify the story but add to its hilarity as well. Finally, Kinneys choice to have Greg tell his stories via diary, offers Greg with a way to cope with his awkward experiences.

In The Ugly Truth, Greg doesnt disappoint his readers as he leads us through growing up the good, the bad, and the ugly of it. Continuing from the fourth book, The Ugly Truth begins with the destroyed friendship between Greg and his best friend Rowley. Throughout the book, Greg struggles with trying to come to terms with Rowley, never wanting to swallow his pride and admit just how much Rowley means to him. As he is fretting over his doomed friendship and contemplating why Rowley wont come crawling back, he leads the reader through various life experiences. Gregs narcissistic, something for nothing attitude causes things to not quite work out the way he expects. Greg is involved in one mishap after another in this comical tale of growing up.

This is a good childrens literature book because the stories and illustrations are humorous, witty, simple, and interesting. Greg represents an average child facing realistic situations but with unrealistic expectations. He humorously and candidly faces topics that many adolescents deal with on a daily basis. The simplicity of the stories, the relatable storylines, and the humor with which theyre told allow children to feel comfortable about growing and lets them know theyre not alone.

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