[citation needed] The series, written in a diary format, uses drawings, doodles, and comic strips to chronicle the daily life of its 14-year-old protagonist, Nikki Maxwell.

[3] This spin-off series focuses on Maxwell "Max" Crumbly, the character introduced in Tales from a Not-So-Perfect Pet Sitter and, also written in diary format, his life in middle school.

Nicole Jullianne "Nikki" Maxwell Mackenzie Hollister Chloe Christina Garcia Zoeysha Ebony "Zoey" Franklin Brandon Roberts Brianna Lynn Maxwell Jessica Hunter Violet Baker Theodore L. "Theo" Swagmire III Marcy Simms Marcus Tiffany Davenport André Kirkus Reviews' review of Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life praises the humor and ability to reflect upon early adolescence experiences well, stating, "Nikki's journey of self-discovery will appeal to preadolescent readers struggling to find their places in the world.

"[5] As of December 2024, the Dork Diaries series has spent 334 weeks on The New York Times Best Seller list in the Children's Series category with 18 consecutive New York Times bestselling books.

[12] In March 2014, Summit Entertainment acquired the movie rights to the series.