15 Picture Books About Monkeys Kids Will Want To Read Repeatedly

Facebook Email Flipboard Pinterest Reddit

If you’re on the hunt for picture books about monkeys, you’re in for a wild adventure!

These playful and entertaining stories are perfect for bringing some giggles and excitement to storytime. From mischievous monkeys swinging through the trees to adorable characters with a knack for getting into all sorts of trouble, these fun read aloud books are packed with valuable lessons.

Collage of adorable monkey-themed books for preschoolers, featuring colorful covers and popular titles like Curious George, Grumpy Monkey, Hug, and Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases. Read our disclosure policy.

Story Books About Monkeys

Below are the heartwarming tales or silly escapades that will keep little ones laughing and engaged during the read-aloud time!

Grumpy Monkey

Meet Jim Panzee, the grumpy monkey who can't shake off his bad mood! Everyone around him is in a good mood, but Jim feels annoyed and frustrated. This funny story helps little ones understand that it's okay to have bad days and that emotions are natural.

With its colorful illustrations and relatable moments, Grumpy Monkey shows kids that it's perfectly fine to feel grumpy sometimes, but it doesn’t last forever. You’ll love Jim’s journey as he learns to embrace his feelings!

Related: Grumpy Monkey Craft

Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed

This classic tale will have kids giggling as five little monkeys jump on the bed despite their mother’s warnings! The mischievous monkeys get hurt one by one, and readers will have fun counting them down as the chaos unfolds.

With its catchy rhyming text and vibrant illustrations, this book is an entertaining way to teach kids about numbers, consequences, and the importance of listening.

Try this: Monkey Headband Craft

Hug

Sometimes, a little one needs a hug, and in this adorable story, a baby chimpanzee named Little Chimp is searching for just that! As Little Chimp goes on a journey looking for a hug, kids will love the sweet, simple story of friendship and affection.

The beautiful illustrations and the universal theme of needing comfort make this a perfect bedtime read for young children, teaching them about love and the joy of sharing a hug.

Related: Monkey Cutting Activity Pages

Curious George Goes Camping

Curious George is off on a camping adventure in this fun-filled story! His curiosity leads him into hilarious situations as he explores the great outdoors. With its lively illustrations and playful tone, this book is perfect for young readers who enjoy George’s mischievous ways.

Get ready for a camping trip full of surprises and laughs!

Try this: Monkey Worksheets

Spunky Little Monkey

This spunky monkey is always on the move, swinging through the jungle and jumping and dancing. The playful text and vibrant illustrations will have young children clapping along while they learn about the importance of having fun and being yourself.

It’s a lively, interactive story perfect for active kids who love singing, dancing, and playing.

Related: Monkey Paper Cup Craft

Cuddle Monkey

Cuddle Monkey is all about the love and comfort of a warm cuddle. This sweet little monkey is looking for a hug from someone special, and kids will adore watching the little one search for the perfect cuddle buddy.

With its soft, rhythmic text and adorable illustrations, this book will melt hearts and make it the ideal read for any snuggle session. It’s a lovely reminder of the joy found in close connections and affection.

Also try: Monkey Color By Numbers

The Little Monkey Who Wouldn’t Sleep

It’s bedtime for little monkeys, but this curious creature just can’t seem to settle down! From counting stars to having one last snack, the little monkey tries everything to avoid sleep.

The playful text and cute illustrations will keep kids entertained while also teaching them the importance of getting enough rest. It’s an excellent story for children who struggle with bedtime or love a good nighttime adventure!

Related: Monkey Toilet Paper Roll Craft

The Monkey Who Couldn’t Hang

This cheeky little monkey just can’t figure out how to hang from the tree! No matter how hard it tries, it just keeps slipping. But this determined monkey doesn’t give up, learning that persistence is key.

The story is filled with humor and heart, making it a fun read for kids learning about perseverance, problem-solving, and the importance of never giving up, no matter how tricky things seem.

Also try: Pirate Monkey Craft

Monkey: A Trickster Tale from India

In this vibrant and captivating retelling of an Indian folk tale, Monkey is a clever trickster who uses his wit to outsmart others and solve tricky problems. With his quick thinking and playful nature, Monkey navigates challenges while showing that brains can be just as powerful as brawn.

This beautifully illustrated book is a fantastic way for kids to explore the world of trickster tales and learn about cleverness, problem-solving, and cultural traditions.

Related: Monkey Tissue Paper Craft

Monkey Puzzle

Where’s my mommy? That’s the big question in Monkey Puzzle. A little monkey is lost and searching for his mom, and along the way, he meets a colorful cast of characters who all try to help him, though they get his search a little mixed up!

With its charming illustrations and heartwarming ending, it’s a remarkable story about love and finding the right place (and the right person) to feel safe and happy.

Also try: Monkey Name Craft

Curious George’s First Day of School

George is excited and a little nervous, from meeting new friends to discovering how the classroom works. But with his usual charm and enthusiasm, he finds his way and learns how much fun school can be.

This book is an excellent choice for any little one about to start school. It offers a sweet, reassuring look at a significant milestone. It’s packed with humor, and kids will love seeing how George handles his first day.

Related: Monkey Paper Bag Puppet Craft

Night Monkey, Day Monkey

Night Monkey and Day Monkey may live in the same jungle, but they couldn’t be more different! One loves the quiet, peaceful night, while the other thrives in the bright daylight. As the two monkeys try to understand each other's world, they end up in hilarious situations.

With its playful rhymes and beautiful illustrations, this book is a perfect way to teach kids about friendship, empathy, and appreciating differences while having fun.

Try this: Monkey Craft

Caps for Sale

This classic tale of a peddler and some cheeky monkeys will surely delight young readers! The peddler tries to sell his caps but finds himself in a hilarious predicament when a group of mischievous monkeys decide to steal all his caps.

With its rhythmic text and funny storyline, this book teaches kids about problem-solving and persistence. The playful antics of the monkeys will keep little ones giggling while learning the value of staying calm in tricky situations.

Related: Paper Plate Monkey Craft

Little Monkey

Little Monkey is on the move and ready to explore the jungle! From swinging in the trees to making new animal friends, this adorable book is filled with action and fun.

The simple, engaging text and bright illustrations make it perfect for toddlers, teaching them about the animal world and the joy of discovering new things. It’s a sweet story that celebrates curiosity, friendship, and adventure!

Try this: Handprint Monkey Craft

Grumpy Monkey Up All Night

Jim Panzee is back—and staying up all night this time! He awakens when everyone else sleeps, his usual grumpiness in full swing. Will he ever feel better? With its relatable theme of emotions and funny antics, this story helps kids understand their feelings, especially when things are unplanned.

The vibrant illustrations and playful story will keep kids entertained while offering a gentle lesson in self-regulation and rest.

Related: Leprechaun Monkey Craft

More Fun Books Ideas

Sam

Sam is the crafter and founder of Simple Everyday Mom. She has been featured in Oprah Mag, Good Housekeeping, The Spruce Crafts, Country Living, The Bump and more. Read more.

Facebook Email Flipboard Pinterest Reddit