From BuzzFeed · · 2m
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Fight or Flight
Jeff Kinney reveals how Greg's cowardice turns into courage in the new Wimpy Kid book.
In brief
Jeff Kinney reveals how Greg's cowardice turns into courage in the new Wimpy Kid book. Jeff Kinney's new Wimpy Kid book Fight or Flight shows Greg facing bullying after initially avoiding fights. Originally reported by BuzzFeed.
New Wimpy Kid Book Out Now
Jeff Kinney's 21st book Fight or Flight releases today, introducing Greg facing middle school bullies.
Bullying Theme in Fight or Flight
Kinney wanted to explore bullying deeply after Greg's initial avoidance of fights in the book.
Karate Sequences in Book
Kinney interviewed karate experts to ensure Greg breaks karate norms without being unrealistic.
Chicken Costume Cover Detail
Greg's cover shows him in a chicken costume with an accidental egg, but Kinney added a zipper to avoid looking half-chicken.
Adults Initially Targeted
Kinney originally wrote Wimpy Kid for adults, thinking of The Wonder Years or A Christmas Story.
Drawing and Text Contradiction
Kinney's strongest comedy comes when drawings contradict the text, like Greg thinking he did the right thing but not actually doing it.
Accidental Drawing Connections
Kinney discovered Greg's ancestor hiding under a cart in one drawing, later matching his desk position during a movie scene.
Crowd Scenes Take Long Time
Drawing crowd scenes takes Kinney 10 hours, especially for pages like Greg entering a crowded gym.
Casting Greg is Tough
Disney auditions 800 kids for Greg's role, needing a 'likable jerk' who acts flawed, fast-talking, and funny.
Greg as a Universal Kid
Kinney realized kids worldwide see Greg as a universal kid, not an American one, after traveling globally.
Rowley is Easy to Write
Rowley's voice is easy for Kinney to write, but the Wimpy Kid books remain challenging after 21 drafts.
Storytelling Transformation
Kinney's breakthrough was realizing the character must transform from coward to fighter in the book.
Wimpy Kid Books Evolve
Kinney focuses on universal childhood truths to make Wimpy Kid books accessible globally.
Next Steps for Wimpy Kid
Kinney's next book will explore deeper themes after Greg's transformation in Fight or Flight.
The headline
Jeff Kinney's new Wimpy Kid book Fight or Flight shows Greg facing bullying after initially avoiding fights.
