Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Great Grade Escape
September 1
Dear Diary, I thought this year was going to be different. I mean, how hard can eighth grade be, right? Well, let’s just say it’s already proving to be a lot more complicated than I hoped. Today was the first day of school, and I’m already convinced that my teachers are part of a secret society dedicated to making my life miserable.
September 2
So, here’s the thing. I was totally ready to ace my classes this year, but then I saw the homework. It’s like the teachers are in a competition to see who can give the most pointless and time-consuming assignments. Mrs. Bennett gave us a project on ancient civilizations, and I’m pretty sure I saw her smirk when she handed it out.
Unexpected Encounters
September 4
I had a run-in with Fregley today. For some reason, he’s convinced that we’re best friends now. I tried to avoid him, but he followed me around the entire lunch period. I’m not sure what was more awkward—the fact that he kept talking about his pet rock collection or the way he stared at me while chewing his sandwich.
September 5
The big news today: our school is having a fundraiser, and it’s my job to sell these ridiculously overpriced candy bars. I can’t believe they expect me to sell 50 of these things. I can’t even get my friends to buy them, let alone random strangers.
Challenges and Competitions
September 7
I tried to get help with my candy bar sales from Rowley, but he’s way too busy with his new obsession—collecting limited-edition action figures. He’s been talking about them non-stop. It’s like he’s forgotten there’s a world outside his collection.
September 10
The worst part of eighth grade so far? Gym class. We’re starting a new unit on volleyball, and I swear Coach Johnson is out to get me. Every time I try to serve the ball, it either hits the ceiling or goes straight into the next zip code. My teammates are not impressed.
Strategies and Setbacks
September 12
I finally managed to sell a few candy bars—mostly to my family and neighbors who felt sorry for me. But then, something unexpected happened. I overheard that my rival, Bryce Anderson, is selling a ton of candy bars too. I’ve got to step up my game if I want to win this competition.
September 15
Rowley and I tried to come up with a new sales strategy. We set up a stand outside the local grocery store. It was going great until Fregley showed up and started giving out free samples of his “special lemonade.” Turns out, it was just watered-down juice with extra lemon slices. Needless to say, we didn’t make a single sale.
Social Events and Mishaps
September 20
Good news: I’m finally getting the hang of this volleyball thing. Bad news: Gym class is now the least of my worries. The school’s big dance is coming up, and I’ve got zero chance of asking anyone to go with me. I’m just hoping I can avoid the dance floor entirely.
September 22
Today was a total disaster. I accidentally wore two different shoes to school. The kids at my table noticed and wouldn’t stop teasing me. Even worse, I’m pretty sure I have a spot on my shoe that’s been compared to a “black hole” by some of the kids.
Reflections and Resolutions
September 25
Rowley invited me to his house for a weekend sleepover, which seemed like a good idea—until I found out he’s planning to spend the entire time playing with his action figures. I’m starting to wonder if I’m going to end up as his sidekick or just a spectator.
September 28
The school dance was last night, and it was every bit as awkward as I feared. I did manage to avoid the dance floor, but I couldn’t avoid getting caught in a conga line with my least favorite gym teacher.
Success and Moving Forward
September 30
I’m in the home stretch with the candy bar sales. After some serious effort and a few creative schemes, I’m almost at my goal. The competition is still fierce, though. Bryce Anderson is not making it easy. But I’m determined to win this and prove that I’m not just a wimpy kid.
October 1
I’m officially done with candy bar sales! I actually won the competition and earned the top prize. It turns out that the secret to success is a mix of persistence, a few creative ideas, and a lot of help from my friends (and family). So, here’s to eighth grade: challenging, awkward, and full of unexpected twists. But as long as I keep my sense of humor and stay determined, I think I’ll survive. For now, I’m ready to face whatever comes next—starting with trying to figure out how to make my next big idea work. Catch you later, Diary.
