Let's Pretend This Never Happened (Dear Dumb Diary #1) Summary & Key Insights

'Let's Pretend This Never Happened' follows the hilarious misadventures of Jamie Kelly, a middle schooler with a penchant for disaster and an even stronger penchant for documenting it all in her diary. The book is framed as Jamie's diary entries, offering a brutally honest and often self-deprecating account of her life. Jamie is awkward, clumsy, and prone to embarrassing situations, yet possesses a surprising amount of self-awareness (despite her often terrible decisions).

The overarching theme revolves around the anxieties and challenges of navigating middle school. Jamie grapples with typical pre-teen issues: fitting in, dealing with crushes (namely the infuriatingly popular and seemingly perfect Brandon), navigating friendships (particularly her complicated relationship with her best friend Ingrid), and coping with the ever-present judgment of her peers. Her attempts to improve her social standing often backfire spectacularly, leading to a series of cringe-worthy events.

A key plot point involves Jamie's desperate pursuit of popularity. This manifests in various ill-conceived schemes, like trying to win a school-wide talent show with a disastrous magic act or attempting to become the "cool girl" by hanging out with the "popular" crowd, resulting in humiliating experiences. These attempts are fueled by her insecurity and desire for acceptance, highlighting a common middle school struggle. Her diary entries vividly illustrate the internal conflict between her desire to be liked and her genuine personality.

Another significant plot thread centers on Jamie's tumultuous friendship with Ingrid. Their bond is tested by typical adolescent drama – jealousy, competition, and misunderstandings. Their friendship dynamics showcase the complexities of female friendships during this age, with both girls displaying moments of pettiness and genuine affection. Their ups and downs are a major source of conflict and comedic relief throughout the book.

The diary entries also reveal Jamie's family life, showcasing a loving but slightly chaotic household. Her relationship with her family is supportive, providing a grounding counterpoint to the tumultuous world of middle school. While her family doesn't always understand her teenage struggles, they offer unconditional love and a sense of belonging.

Throughout the narrative, Jamie's humor shines through, despite the often painful situations she finds herself in. Her self-deprecating wit and observational skills make her a relatable and endearing character. The book's humor comes from the sheer absurdity of her experiences and her honest, often unfiltered, narration. Ultimately, ‘Let's Pretend This Never Happened’ is a funny and relatable look at the awkward realities of middle school, reminding readers that everyone experiences embarrassing moments and that navigating adolescence is a messy but ultimately rewarding journey.