Early Troubles:
* Greg's parents force him to go on a family vacation to a cabin in the woods. He's not enthusiastic about the idea, especially with his annoying older brother Rodrick tagging along.
* The cabin is very remote and isolated, lacking many modern comforts. This adds to Greg's frustration.
* Greg and Rowley are worried about a creepy local legend of a "cabin monster" who supposedly lives in the woods.
Cabin Shenanigans:
* Greg tries to escape the cabin and sneak back home, but his attempts are thwarted by his parents. He's constantly reminded that he can't escape the vacation.
* Rodrick tries to get Greg in trouble and pranks him repeatedly. This adds to Greg's stress and makes the vacation even more miserable.
* Greg and Rowley find a strange object in the woods. They're convinced it's the "cabin monster," but it turns out to be a lost dog.
Facing Fears:
* Greg learns that the "cabin monster" is just a dog, but he also faces his fear of the woods. He ventures out on his own, hoping to prove his bravery.
* Greg and Rowley have a near-miss encounter with a bear, highlighting the dangers of the wilderness. They realize the woods can be unpredictable.
Unexpected Bonding:
* While Greg is still annoyed by the cabin, he does start to appreciate spending time with his family. He realizes that even if the vacation isn't ideal, it's a chance to connect with his loved ones.
* Greg and his dad bond over a shared interest in survival skills. Greg learns to appreciate his dad's practical knowledge.
Leaving the Cabin:
* The vacation eventually ends, and Greg is relieved to be going home. He's still not a fan of cabin trips, but he leaves with a newfound understanding of his family and the importance of spending time together.
* The ending suggests that Greg might reconsider his aversion to vacations in the future. He leaves the cabin feeling slightly less miserable than when he arrived.