Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul is the ninth book in the smash-hit Diary of a Wimpy Kid series written and illustrated by Jeff Kinney. Originally published on November 4, 2014, this comedic diary-fiction novel follows the chaotic misadventures of middle-schooler Greg Heffley as his family embarks on an ill-fated summer road trip.The story kicks off when Greg's mother, Susan, decides to surprise the family with an "authentic," technology-free cross-country road trip inspired by a family lifestyle magazine. Greg�s dad is initially hesitant due to work, but the family soon packs into their cramped minivan�with a boat towed behind it�and sets off on a journey that quickly descends.