Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Old School
#10 of 19 in The Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series
on Goodreads (66,216)
What’s inside...
'Old School' follows Greg Heffley as he navigates a town-wide electronics ban initiated by his mom. As everyone around him unplugs, Greg finds himself struggling to adapt to a life without video games and technology. Throughout the story, he explores old-fashioned ways of having fun and ultimately learns that some of the boring stuff he thought he could live without might be exactly what he needs. Life was better in the old days. Or was it? That’s the question Greg Heffley is asking as his town voluntarily unplugs and goes electronics-free. But modern life has its conveniences, and Greg isn’t cut out for an old-fashioned world. With tension building inside and outside the Heffley home, will Greg find a way to survive? Or is going “old school” just too hard for a kid like Greg?
Character compass
Greg Heffley
Grandpa Heffley
Rowley Jefferson
Susan Heffley
Frank Heffley
Discussion points
How do you think Greg's life without modern gadgets compares to your own experiences with technology?
What lessons do you think Greg learned about friendship and being true to oneself?
Can you relate to any of the characters in the book? Who and why?
If you had to give one piece of advice to Greg for his next adventure, what would it be?
What do you think about the way the story shows family relationships?
Tip: Role play these questions
Connect the book's scenarios to your child's life by discussing similarities and differences in their experiences.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about the characters' decisions, fostering critical thinking about right and wrong.
Ask them to consider what they would have done differently if they were in Greg's shoes, encouraging empathy and self-reflection.
Discuss the book's portrayal of a world without technology and its impact on family dynamics and friendships.
Promote an open dialogue about the challenges and lessons the characters face, relating them to your child's growth and learning journey.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Honesty
Explanation: In 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Old School', the protagonist Greg learns the hard way that dishonesty often leads to more complicated situations. His attempts to bend the truth end up causing more problems than they solve.
Real-World Application: Children can learn from Greg's experiences to value honesty in their interactions, which will lead to more trust and simpler resolutions in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Value of Independence
Explanation: Throughout the book, Greg is put in situations where he must fend for himself, especially during the school trip. These instances show how stepping out of comfort zones can foster personal growth and independence.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to embrace new experiences and problem-solving on their own can help them develop confidence and autonomy.
Example Lesson: Benefits of Unplugging from Technology
Explanation: When Greg spends time away from modern conveniences during the school trip, he discovers different ways to entertain himself and connect with others.
Real-World Application: This lesson underscores the importance of face-to-face interactions and finding joy outside of screens, which is vital in a digital age.
Example Lesson: Understanding Generational Differences
Explanation: Greg's experiences with older generations at the retirement home and during the school trip offer him (and readers) insights into different perspectives and ways of life.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by learning to respect and value the wisdom and experiences of older family members and other elders they interact with.
Example Lesson: Adapting to Unexpected Changes
Explanation: Greg learns to adapt to various unexpected circumstances throughout the book, whether it's dealing with a tough teacher or surviving without modern comforts on a trip.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of flexibility and resilience, skills that are crucial for handling life’s unpredictable challenges.