Jeff Kinney is a globally renowned author, illustrator, and game designer, best known for creating the bestselling Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. Born in 1971 in Fort Washington, Maryland, Kinney originally aspired to become a newspaper cartoonist. Though that path didn’t pan out, his love of humor and comics led him to create one of the most iconic children’s book series of all time.
Kinney launched Diary of a Wimpy Kid online in 2004, where it quickly gained popularity among readers of all ages. Due to its massive success, the first print edition was published in 2007. The series chronicles the middle school misadventures of Greg Heffley, a witty and awkward preteen navigating family life, friendships, and growing up. Known for its relatable humor, cartoon illustrations, and journal-style format, the series has become a cultural phenomenon, selling more than 275 million copies worldwide and translated into over 65 languages.
In addition to his writing, Kinney is the founder of Poptropica, a popular online role-playing game for children. He is also the owner of An Unlikely Story, a bookstore and café in Plainville, Massachusetts, where he lives with his family.
Jeff Kinney has received numerous accolades for his contribution to children's literature, including multiple Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards and being named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2009.
What sets Kinney apart is his ability to connect with kids through humor and honesty, capturing the awkward, often cringe-worthy experiences of growing up. His stories resonate with reluctant readers and book lovers alike, helping millions of children discover the joy of reading.
Beyond the page, Diary of a Wimpy Kid has been adapted into several successful feature films and animated specials, further solidifying Kinney’s legacy as a key figure in modern children's storytelling.
