Book fair money

Book fair money symbolizes Greg’s irresponsibility. Greg is given money by his Mom for books at the book fair, but instead, he spends it on things like pens that can write underwater and posters featuring sarcastic cats. Greg is forced by his mother to return the items to the book fair for books.

Spineticklers

Spineticklers novels symbolize popular reading. Everyone at school is reading the Spineticklers horror novels, so Greg decides to give them a shot as well. Greg hopes this will appease his mother, but she is not impressed by Greg’s choice.

The Balloon Brigade Contest

The Balloon Brigade Contest symbolizes Greg’s desire for candy. The Balloon Brigade, which makes a contest out of seeing how far balloons will travel, has for its prize for the farthest-traveling balloon, a giant jar of candy corn. Greg will do anything to win...