If you haven’t heard of the Wimpy Kid series (Amulet) then you probably haven’t been within 100 feet of the nearest grade school kid. The series, which began with Diary of a Wimpy Kid, has not only conquered the New York Times bestsellers list but the film adaptation had a $21 million weekend at the box office. We had the opportunity for a short interview with author Jeff Kinney about the book and film success.
He discusses with GalleyCat what he really thought of the film, what he has planned once Wimpy Kid is over and his advice for other authors.
Have you seen the film? Are you happy with it?
I have seen the film, and I’m proud of it. I think where the movie really delivers is on the emotional front. I think the audience gets really invested in the relationship between the two best friends, and that’s something that only a movie can do.
Do you have any books beyond the Wimpy Kid series that you would like to write?
Yes, I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about what’s next for me. I’d like to create another series in the next few years… something that challenges me and takes me outside of my comfort zone.
What advice do you have for other authors who would like to strike gold like you have with such an amazing series of books?
My advice to authors would be to try to do something original rather than to try to anticipate what the market is looking for.