Jeffrey Patrick Kinney was born in Fort Washington, Maryland, the first of four children. His upbringing in a close-knit family environment undoubtedly influenced his later writings, particularly the themes of family dynamics and childhood experiences prevalent in his work.

During his time at the University of Maryland, Kinney created the comic strip 'Igdoof' for the school newspaper, 'The Diamondback.' This experience was pivotal, providing him with valuable experience in cartooning and storytelling. Although Igdoof wasn't as successful as he hoped, it sharpened his skills and prepared him for future endeavors.

Kinney began working on the 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' series around 1998, initially envisioning it as a satirical journal about middle school. He spent nearly eight years developing the concept and honing his writing and illustration style, carefully crafting the character of Greg Heffley and his world.

Before publishing in print, Kinney released 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' as a webcomic on FunBrain.com in 2004. This online platform provided a large and engaged audience, allowing Kinney to gauge reader response and refine his work. The positive reception on FunBrain was crucial in securing a publishing deal.

In 2007, the first 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' book was published in print by Abrams Books. It quickly became a bestseller, captivating readers with its relatable humor and unique blend of text and cartoons. This marked the official beginning of Kinney's wildly successful book series.

The popularity of the book series led to a live-action film adaptation, 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid,' released in 2010. The film was a box office success, further solidifying the franchise's widespread appeal and introducing Greg Heffley and his friends to an even larger audience.

Kinney and his wife Julie opened a bookstore and cafe called 'An Unlikely Story' in Plainville, Massachusetts. The bookstore reflects Kinney's love for reading and community, hosting author events and providing a gathering place for book lovers.

Jeff Kinney continues to write and illustrate new installments in the 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' series, remaining a prominent figure in children's literature. He has also explored other creative avenues, including the development of animated 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' movies for Disney+ expanding his reach and influence in the entertainment industry.