Greg Heffley

Greg is the writer of the diary on which this novel is based. He is an eighth grader and attends middle school. He is not very socially adept. He is completely at a loss with sports. He is willing to try out for basketball because his mother thinks it is a good idea for him to be on a team. This is an indication of his relationship with her. Greg does not expect to be chosen for the basketball team. He is chosen only because Mr. Patel wants to have a team for his son. Even when Greg realizes this, he remains committed to showing up for practice and the games. He hopes he does not have to play because he is afraid of failing. He lacks self-confidence.

Greg is a recurring character in the series, meaning fans are familiar with Greg and his immediate family. Greg...