Another Bookworm Wednesday is here, and this week’s read is one many little ones (and their grown-ups!) can relate to. It’s Grumpy Monkey Up All Night by Suzanne Lang, with lively illustrations by Max Lang.

If bedtime struggles are a familiar part of your home routine, this book offers the perfect combination of laughter, empathy, and gentle importance of rest. In my home, this book has helped to create a humorous transition to bedtime.

Book Summary: Why is Jim So Grumpy?

In this sequel to the bestselling Grumpy Monkey, Jim Panzee is gearing up for a big night. There’s a party with his jungle family and friends! They play games, eat snacks, and stay up way too late. However, Jim is annoyed that his brother wants to copy him and stay up all night long.

At first, Jim tries to have fun. But as the night stretches on, he becomes increasingly tired, irritated, and- you guessed it- grumpy. The more he pushes through, the worse he feels. He stays up later than everyone else, but wants to stay up all night long. Jim finally crashes and falls asleep… just as the rest of the jungle starts their morning.

In the end, his loving mom reminds him, “You’ll always be my grumpy monkey,” wrapping up the night with warmth and reassurance. It’s a sweet, silly story that helps preschoolers see that even fun has its limits, and that rest is nothing to be ashamed of.

Why This Book Works for Preschoolers

Bedtime battles, fear of missing out, and sensory overload are all common for the preschool crowd. Grumpy Monkey Up All Night gives kids permission to slow down, name their feelings, and know they’re not alone in needing a break.

Developmental Benefits:

• Emotional Literacy: Helps kids recognize signs of tiredness and overstimulation.
• Self-Awareness: Encourages listening to their body’s cues.
• Social Skills: Models empathy, taking turns, and accepting limits.

Calming Activity Ideas to Pair with the Story

Make your Grumpy Monkey read-aloud even more meaningful with these calming, screen-free activities:

1. Create a Bedtime Feelings Chart: Draw different animal faces with sleepy, grumpy, excited, and calm expressions. Ask your child to point to how they feel each night before bed.
2. Stuffed Animal Pajama Party: Let your child host a “party” like Jim Panzee’s (just make sure to have a clear ending to the party!). Have them lead storytime and tuck in each stuffed animal to reinforce bedtime routines.
3. Monkey Wind-Down Yoga: Try a few silly animal poses. For example, monkey arm swings, sleepy lion stretch, or “sloth breath” (deep inhale, slow exhale). Keep it light and fun!

Preschool Conversation Starters

After the story, chat with your child.

• What made Jim feel grumpy?
• Have you ever felt tired but didn’t want to stop playing?
• What helps you feel cozy and ready for bed?

These questions encourage reflection and help kids make personal connections to the story.

Join the Fun on Instagram!

Each Wednesday, we share a new book with learning ideas on Instagram. Follow along at @smartplayforprek and tag us if you try one of these activities! We’d love to see your little one’s pajama party or feelings chart in action.

Final Thoughts

Grumpy Monkey Up All Night is more than a bedtime book. It’s a gentle, funny reminder that even the most fun days need a soft, sleepy ending. Try adding this book to your nighttime routine and see how it opens up great conversations with your little one.

Looking for more book-based learning ideas? Check our our full Bookworm Wednesdays archive for engaging title, emotional learning tips, and fun printables every week!