Jeff Kinney, the renowned American author behind the immensely popular comic book series “Diary of A Wimpy Kid,” is far from being timid when it comes to achieving success. In a recent conversation with Antonio Michael Downing on “The Next Chapter,” Kinney discussed the origins of his iconic children’s series.
The latest release, the 20th installment titled “Partypooper,” proudly boasts a front note claiming “over 300 million copies sold.” However, Kinney humorously admitted that the actual number of books sold is not quite at 300 million, with the sticker being a visual embellishment for the cover.
When asked to describe the main character, Greg, and his family to someone unfamiliar with them, Kinney explained that they are ordinary individuals depicted in an exaggerated manner similar to his own family members. He highlighted that these characters are intentionally flawed, imperfect, and make numerous mistakes, making them enjoyable to write about.
Reflecting on his journey that began in 1998, Kinney shared his initial aspiration to become a newspaper cartoonist akin to Charles Schulz or Bill Watterson. Following several years of unsuccessful attempts to syndicate his work, he transitioned to a new approach inspired by his journal entries, which eventually culminated in the creation of “Diary of A Wimpy Kid.”
Kinney emphasized the importance of maintaining character consistency in cartooning, noting that Greg remains the same age throughout the series to honor this principle. He likened this enduring nature of characters in cartoons to a sense of reliability and comfort for readers, especially children.
Regarding Greg’s emotional portrayal, Kinney aimed to depict him realistically flawed rather than as a heroic figure, drawing inspiration from his own experiences growing up. He likened his writing approach to that of a stand-up comedian, seeking to resonate with readers by showcasing relatable human imperfections and insecurities.
In a candid reflection on his childhood, Kinney described himself as an observant individual who felt like an outsider in his own life, often capturing his experiences mentally before transitioning into a writer. He humorously shared anecdotes from his past, highlighting how his personal mishaps and humorous moments found their way into his books, forming the essence of his storytelling.
In summary, Jeff Kinney’s creative journey, marked by perseverance, self-reflection, and a commitment to authenticity, underscores the enduring appeal and relatability of the “Diary of A Wimpy Kid” series.