Summary

As Greg begins writing in his diary for the month of May, he is hoping to get into Boy Scout Troop 133 because they do cool things and a lot of the cool kids are in it. The last troop that he wants to be a part of is Troop 24 because they are always doing outdoor service projects, and that is not for Greg. He does get into Troop 133, and Rowley joins him. It is very easy, and Mr. Barrett is an even easier instructor. By the end of the first week, Greg and Rowley have their whittling merit badge, even though they really only whittled soap.

Greg asks his father if he wants to go on a father-son camping outing. At first, Greg's dad isn't too keen on the idea; but, Greg's mother makes them go and take Roderick, too. Greg is confused by...