Parents' Guide to

Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas

By Carrie Kingsley, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 3+

Mad monkey learns gratitude with funny, expressive images.

Book Suzanne Lang Picture Book 2021
Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

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age 18+

Based on 1 parent review

Hjon Dog
Hjon Dog Parent of 18+, 3 and 4-year-old
January 23, 2023
age 18+

Are Kids Really Kids

If you think about it this book is inappropriate and scary to little kids and they turn into wimps. as soon as I had my head replaced my son had been begging to go to the zoo to see the grumpy monkey. as soon as we go it is feeding time for them so this turns into a crime scene. Zoo keepers are being torn apart left and right and monkey's eating them. One got out and we made a run for it but he got me leg and now it has to be sawed of and replaced. # raise money for my leg

This title has:

Too much violence
Too much sex
Too much swearing
Too much consumerism
Too much drinking/drugs/smoking
See all 1 parent review

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?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

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

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