While I love the Wimpy Kid series, I'm convinced that Jeff Kinney is incapable of recreating the same level of humor and punch of the first installment. The Ugly Truth is funny, sure, but I would like to see Greg grow up just a little, too. I still find myself relating to the awkward middle school situations or laughing out loud at little bits, but it just doesn't hold a candle to the original. Still, it's great for kids who are already fans and for reluctant readers.