Such a humorous story that's perfect for introducing students to the graphic novel format! This is a great in-between book, and grumpy monkey is a identifiable and familiar character. Definitely a great choice for SEL lessons and a great choice for reluctant readers.

My first time reading a Grumpy Monkey book. It was an entertaining, easy to read GN with themes of belonging, and being kind and helpful mixed with humour. I will likely read more of these.

Jim (the grumpy monkey) has some strategies for managing his stress including a stress ball and a walk. When other animals join him on his walk, the strategy does not work as well, his stress ball gets ruined and the walk changes. Jim handles the changes by thinking of others and being kind. In some ways, this becomes a different stress management strategy, but also provides comic relief for the reader.

Jim is off for his morning walk, all alone - just the way he likes it. He has his stress orange to help him stay calm. But one after another, his peaceful walk is interrupted as he is joined by many of his friends. He really needs that stress orange to help him stay calm! But - uh oh! His stress orange splatted! Now Jim needs to find a new stress orange and fast. Will he make it to the orange grove in time? Or will he learn a timely lesson about friendship and calmness?
This book would be a great introduction to graphic novels for younger kids.