The book is written in a diary style, and focuses on the worries and regrets of a teenager who believes himself to be an intellectual.

[2] Mole is a fierce critic of prime minister Margaret Thatcher, listing her as one of his worst enemies.

[4] In November 2019, BBC News included The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole, Aged 13¾ on its list of the 100 most influential novels.

A successful stage production ran at the Wyndham's Theatre, London, in 1984-1986, that included Simon Gipps-Kent and followed with a road tour.

[6] A stage musical adaptation by Jake Brunger and Pippa Cleary opened at Leicester's Curve Theatre in March 2015.