Kinney Swaps Book Talk for Sumo Wrestling on Fight or Flight Tour
The author of Diary of a Wimpy Kid will host a chaotic event featuring Bigfoot Jr. and boiling nacho cheese to promote the 21st installment of his series.
By John Wilson ·
Jeff Kinney will not discuss his latest book on his upcoming tour. Instead, the author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series will settle scores with audience members during an event called Fight or Flight. The tour kicks off today, October 26, hosted by Rainy Day Books.
The new release is the 21st entry in the franchise. It follows the character Greg Heffley as he studies the habits of school bullies. He analyzes their territories and hunting grounds to avoid conflict. Despite his research, Greg remains targeted by the largest bully in his school. He must use his findings to decide whether to fight or flee.
Kinney described the night as a series of oddities designed to engage readers. He will be accompanied by the Wicked Witch of the West and a character named Bigfoot Jr. The event will include sumo wrestling and sparring matches with neighbors. A tank of boiling nacho cheese is also scheduled for the program. Audience members will have the opportunity to join Kinney on stage.
The author stated that the primary goal is to connect with fans. “I don’t get a chance to interact with my readers that often,” Kinney said. “This is my chance to see how they’re reacting to the book and hopefully see their excitement. That’s what motivates me to keep writing.”
The series began with daily entries posted on Funbrain in 2004. The first printed book arrived in 2007. Feature films followed starting in 2010. The character Greg Heffley has navigated various problems over the last two decades. These include a difficult older brother, summer break issues, and school renovations.
Kinney believes the subject matter remains relevant. “I think childhood is a big universe and there’s always something undiscovered,” he said. “My own kids are grown, so it’s been a while since I’ve been around elementary or middle school kids. But I get the feeling that things that were funny when I first started writing are still landing with kids these days.”
Kinney expressed interest in visiting a local establishment during the tour. He mentioned a preference for a bar in Wichita called Club Rodeo. He noted the location is three hours away. He will attend the PBR event instead.
Source: The Pitch
