Books Like Monkey Business
Families who loved Monkey Business by John R. Erickson often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Monkey Business by John R. Erickson often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent would reach for this book when their child is feeling a bit too serious or needs a lesson in humility delivered through humor. It is perfect for a child who struggles with perfectionism or has a tendency to be a 'bossy' rule-follower, as it uses comedy to show that even the most dedicated authority figures can make ridiculous mistakes. The story follows Hank, a self-important ranch dog, as he attempts to defend his territory from an escaped circus monkey. Through Hank's perspective, children explore themes of responsibility, pride, and the embarrassment that comes when things don't go as planned. It is highly appropriate for elementary readers, offering a safe space to laugh at chaos while reinforcing the value of a job well done, even if the path to getting there is bumpy. Parents will appreciate how it builds vocabulary through Hank's unique, often misguided, internal monologues.
