Monkey Puzzle

"Monkey Puzzle" is a children's picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, first published in 2000. The story follows a young monkey who becomes separated from her mother in the jungle and embarks on a quest to find her.

Plot Summary

The narrative begins with the monkey exclaiming, "I've lost my mum!" A friendly butterfly offers to help her find her mother. However, the butterfly frequently misidentifies various jungle animals based on the descriptions provided by the monkey. This leads to humorous encounters with an array of creatures, including an elephant, snake, spider, parrot, frog, and bat. Despite the butterfly's well-meaning efforts, they fail to locate the mother until they eventually meet the monkey's father, who knows where she is. The story concludes with a joyful reunion between the monkey and her mother, emphasizing themes of family bonds and friendship.

Illustrations and Style

Axel Scheffler's illustrations play a crucial role in bringing the story to life. His vibrant artwork enhances the whimsical narrative, making it engaging for young readers. The book features double-page spreads that allow for detailed depictions of the jungle setting and its inhabitants.

Cultural Impact

"Monkey Puzzle" has become a beloved classic in children's literature, praised for its engaging storyline and valuable life lessons about identity and connection. It is often recommended for reading aloud at home or during storytime sessions due to its rhythmic text and interactive potential.

Author's Note

Julia Donaldson dedicated "Monkey Puzzle" to her cousin's children, reflecting the book's focus on family connections. She expressed gratitude for having Axel Scheffler as the illustrator, as his style perfectly complements her storytelling.

Overall, "Monkey Puzzle" remains a cherished tale that resonates with both children and caregivers alike.

Author: Julia Donaldson

Julia has written some of the world's best-loved children's books, including modern classics The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child, which together have sold over 25 million copies worldwide and have been translated into over one hundred languages. Her other books include Room on the Broom, Stick Man and Zog, illustrated by Axel Scheffler, The Hospital Dog, illustrated by Sara Ogilvie and the hugely successful What the Ladybird Heard adventures, illustrated by Lydia Monks. Julia also writes fiction, including the Princess Mirror-Belle series, illustrated by Lydia Monks, as well as poems, plays and songs – and her brilliant live shows are always in demand. She was the UK Children’s Laureate 2011–13 and has been honoured with a CBE for Services to Literature. Julia and her husband Malcolm divide their time between West Sussex and Edinburgh.

Illustrator: Axel Scheffler

Axel is a star illustrator whose instantly recognizable, warm and witty illustrations have achieved worldwide acclaim and numerous awards. Axel is the illustrator of wonderful novelty, gift and poetry books for Macmillan, such as Fish Who Dream of Trees (Two Hoots) and the bestselling The Bedtime Bear, The Tickle Book and Mother Goose's Nursery Rhymes – and of course, he is the illustrator of some of the world's best-loved picture books, including modern classics The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child, which together have sold over 17 million copies worldwide. Axel’s artwork is exhibited internationally; he has illustrated for many charities and designed the Royal Mail Christmas stamps in 2012. Born in Hamburg, Axel now lives with his family in London.