Common Sense Media Review
By Carrie Kingsley
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Mad monkey learns gratitude with funny, expressive images.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 3+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In GRUMPY MONKEY OH, NO! CHRISTMAS, young Jim Panzee is unhappy about the rainy weather, insects, decorations, and everyone trying to persuade him to celebrate. He's unhappy about everything related to Christmas -- and then he eats an unripe banana. Nothing is going right. But then his best friend Norman gives him mint tea and Jim starts to look around and appreciate all the small things in his world. With a shift in his attitude, when he's surrounded by all the noise and friends and holiday hoopla, he has a different look at the season.
Is It Any Good?
Jim Panzee's facial expressions are a fantastic touch to this funny, sweet, wonderfully illustrated holiday celebration. Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas is a fun, funny, and warm story about the healing power of friendships and the powerful impact of a positive outlook. Jim is stuck in the doldrums, and Norman helps him change his perspective. He takes time, gives Jim space and quiet, and doesn't try to force happiness on Jim. Norman lets Jim come around to happiness on his own, a powerful reminder that feelings matter.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about memorable holidays they've been part of, like the holiday time in Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas. What are your favorite parts of your holiday celebrations?
What can you do to help yourself feel better when you're frustrated?
What other holiday books do you like to read?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Max Lang
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Friendship , Holidays , Animals ( Wild Animals )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Chronicle Books
- Publication date : September 14, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 3 - 7
- Number of pages : 32
- Available on : Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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