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The Monkey Who Fell From the Future
The hilarious, moving and adventure-packed new novel for readers of 9 and up from Ross Welford, the bestselling and Costa-shortlisted author of Time Travelling with a Hamster
The year is 2425. Centuries after a catastrophic meteor collision, nature has retaken the earth. In a small town in what was once England, young Ocean Mooney and the monkey-owning Duke Smiff have just dug up a 400 year-old tablet computer.
Meanwhile, in the present day, Thomas Reeve and his genius cousin Kylie create the Time Tablet – a device which they hope will allow them to communicate with the future.
But when the Time Tablet malfunctions live on television, Thomas and Kylie are sucked into the year 2425 – and have only 24 hours to return home, and save the future of humanity…
The year is 2425. Centuries after a catastrophic meteor collision, nature has retaken the earth. In a small town in what was once England, young Ocean Mooney and the monkey-owning Duke Smiff have just dug up a 400 year-old tablet computer.
Meanwhile, in the present day, Thomas Reeve and his genius cousin Kylie create the Time Tablet – a device which they hope will allow them to communicate with the future.
But when the Time Tablet malfunctions live on television, Thomas and Kylie are sucked into the year 2425 – and have only 24 hours to return home, and save the future of humanity…
255 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 16, 2023
23 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
About the author
Ross Welford
24 books316 followersRoss Welford is a British author of fantastic children's fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
May 23, 2023
More entertaining and thought-provoking adventure from Welford.
A growing list of titles from Welford, and time travel is on the agenda again. This time forwards.
In present day England, Thomas is bemused by his Australian cousin, Kylie, a budding scientist who has built a Time Tablet that she says will allow them to communicate with people over 400 years in the future.
And 402 years in the future are other young people, living in a world following a meteorite bringing a world-changing bacteria to its inhabitants. Living in the remnants of what they dreamily call The Wonder Age and wishing they could see more than a old copy of Star Wars. And who have dug up some Wonder Age technology...
Fortunately, an Ant-and-Dec like TV duo with a programme to fill, an aligning of scientific conditions, and a series of events are likely to bring these two timelines into close quarters. Closer than the children expected.
And of course - they aren't the only ones who see the benefits of the Time Tablet.
I enjoyed the creation of this dystopic and very bleak-looking future, it was quite stark for this age of audience, but Welford does bring his readers a lot of quite dark and deep topics.
The story moved very quickly, I had hoped to spend more time with the time travellers getting to grips with their new time periods, though the standout scene for this ended up being a very funny car chase. The characters are more sparsely personified than usual, but the whole book moved quite quickly and didn't leave much time to spend embellishing, but we did get some adult characters displaying moments of courage, sacrifice and unexpected coolness (see aforementioned car chase!).
Never a bad book with Welford, but this wasn't his best. I did like the Ant-n-Dec-esque show, the nature of the worldwide disaster, the vision of the future, there are some great visuals and scenes to enjoy, and the target market will race through.
For ages 9 and above.
A growing list of titles from Welford, and time travel is on the agenda again. This time forwards.
In present day England, Thomas is bemused by his Australian cousin, Kylie, a budding scientist who has built a Time Tablet that she says will allow them to communicate with people over 400 years in the future.
And 402 years in the future are other young people, living in a world following a meteorite bringing a world-changing bacteria to its inhabitants. Living in the remnants of what they dreamily call The Wonder Age and wishing they could see more than a old copy of Star Wars. And who have dug up some Wonder Age technology...
Fortunately, an Ant-and-Dec like TV duo with a programme to fill, an aligning of scientific conditions, and a series of events are likely to bring these two timelines into close quarters. Closer than the children expected.
And of course - they aren't the only ones who see the benefits of the Time Tablet.
I enjoyed the creation of this dystopic and very bleak-looking future, it was quite stark for this age of audience, but Welford does bring his readers a lot of quite dark and deep topics.
The story moved very quickly, I had hoped to spend more time with the time travellers getting to grips with their new time periods, though the standout scene for this ended up being a very funny car chase. The characters are more sparsely personified than usual, but the whole book moved quite quickly and didn't leave much time to spend embellishing, but we did get some adult characters displaying moments of courage, sacrifice and unexpected coolness (see aforementioned car chase!).
Never a bad book with Welford, but this wasn't his best. I did like the Ant-n-Dec-esque show, the nature of the worldwide disaster, the vision of the future, there are some great visuals and scenes to enjoy, and the target market will race through.
For ages 9 and above.
March 11, 2024
Very exciting story about time travel. Our ideas of what the future is like to what it may actually be. I loved some of the characters. Also very happy the monkey didn't die.
September 8, 2023
Was abit confusing wasnt as good as his others but still good
March 19, 2023
It is the year 2425. All digital technology is gone, and humankind is now only in the millions rather than billions. They weren’t wiped out by the rock that hit earth from space, but the germ that came with it stopped any more humans being born. Only those who were immune continued life on Earth.
Life for Ocean Mooney in 2425 is selling fish at the Newcastle (England) fish markets. She is finishing up one day when she notices a boy putting up posters for an act at the soon-to-be Fish Fair. This act boasts items from the Wonder Age of computers, TVs and microwaves and even has a movie on offer. Like anybody else reading these posters, she is intrigued. But this boy named Duke and his uncle have “other business” in the area too, which is even more intriguing. When Ocean learns what it is, she realises it makes their amazing Wonder Age show pale in comparison.
402 years before in 2023, Thomas is unhappy at his genius cousin Kylie coming to live from Australia. She is about to attend a prestigious school for bright brains like herself, but in the meantime has taken over the house with her annoying babble about time travel and its possibilities. She intends to showcase her idea, and the digital contraption she has built in her bedroom, in a television competition.
Thomas doesn’t believe it, let alone understand it, but agrees to go on tv with her. She might be a genius, but appearing on tv by herself is just too daunting.
The day at the studios before the show that night is fantastic. At least it would be if Thomas wasn’t feeling guilty about something he has done. The flow on effects are clear soon enough when both he and Kylie vanish, and a strange looking girl and a monkey take their place.
Was it a trick? A stunt for the tv show’s ratings? Or is the girl telling the truth? Time is ticking for the world to find out.
Ross Welford is a wonderful storyteller, and The Monkey who fell from the Future is another great tale full of likeable characters, easily imagined settings and a race to the finish conclusion.
There are two time zones in this novel, beginning with 2425, then flicking back to 2023 and back again. These times are well indicated at the beginning of the alternating chapters along with the point of view character’s name. Tension rises steadily and authentically as the action escalates to a nail biting ending.
Staying in one area, but 402 years apart helps the character and the reader picture the two settings. One neat, tidy and now, and one filled with crumbling buildings, ivy covered homes and broken roads. Not to mention the strange birds and animals wandering the bush between.
The time travel itself is via distinct conditions and although confusing to all but one of the characters, it is easy for the reader to understand, putting the specifics aside to be wrapped up entirely by the story.
Another fabulous read by Ross Welford.
Life for Ocean Mooney in 2425 is selling fish at the Newcastle (England) fish markets. She is finishing up one day when she notices a boy putting up posters for an act at the soon-to-be Fish Fair. This act boasts items from the Wonder Age of computers, TVs and microwaves and even has a movie on offer. Like anybody else reading these posters, she is intrigued. But this boy named Duke and his uncle have “other business” in the area too, which is even more intriguing. When Ocean learns what it is, she realises it makes their amazing Wonder Age show pale in comparison.
402 years before in 2023, Thomas is unhappy at his genius cousin Kylie coming to live from Australia. She is about to attend a prestigious school for bright brains like herself, but in the meantime has taken over the house with her annoying babble about time travel and its possibilities. She intends to showcase her idea, and the digital contraption she has built in her bedroom, in a television competition.
Thomas doesn’t believe it, let alone understand it, but agrees to go on tv with her. She might be a genius, but appearing on tv by herself is just too daunting.
The day at the studios before the show that night is fantastic. At least it would be if Thomas wasn’t feeling guilty about something he has done. The flow on effects are clear soon enough when both he and Kylie vanish, and a strange looking girl and a monkey take their place.
Was it a trick? A stunt for the tv show’s ratings? Or is the girl telling the truth? Time is ticking for the world to find out.
Ross Welford is a wonderful storyteller, and The Monkey who fell from the Future is another great tale full of likeable characters, easily imagined settings and a race to the finish conclusion.
There are two time zones in this novel, beginning with 2425, then flicking back to 2023 and back again. These times are well indicated at the beginning of the alternating chapters along with the point of view character’s name. Tension rises steadily and authentically as the action escalates to a nail biting ending.
Staying in one area, but 402 years apart helps the character and the reader picture the two settings. One neat, tidy and now, and one filled with crumbling buildings, ivy covered homes and broken roads. Not to mention the strange birds and animals wandering the bush between.
The time travel itself is via distinct conditions and although confusing to all but one of the characters, it is easy for the reader to understand, putting the specifics aside to be wrapped up entirely by the story.
Another fabulous read by Ross Welford.
February 16, 2023
The Monkey Who Fell From the Future was an impressive book which I very much enjoyed.
I have enjoyed all of Ross Welford’s previous books and bought this one as soon as it came out. I feel that all of his books have a similar style of writing and this one was no exception. It was all the mystery and excitement you would expect from this author. I find that normally around halfway through his novels I have no idea how it will play out, yet feel that the ending is satisfactory. This unique feature of Welford’s books is what causes me to continuously buy his newest book.
I enjoyed the characters in this book. I felt that the protagonists were relatable, yet interesting. I found Duke particularly fascinating and his monkey plays a big part in the plot. I felt the multiple person narrative was interesting as it enabled the reader to see the full picture.
I especially enjoyed the epilogue and ending as the story felt complete. I feel that Welford’s endings always feel satisfying, while not being to long and risking losing the readers interest. The epilogue perfectly captured the nature of the novel and was a good closing text to this brilliant novel.
The novel felt well paced. It was a page turner, yet I felt a good amount of detail was given. Welford’s unique pacing means the reader can feel hooked on the book not wanting to put it down, yet the book does not feel rushed. I read this book in one sitting and felt captivated by the novel the full time.
Overall, I would say this is a fantastic book for anyone who loves Welford’s previous books, or this wanting an exciting page turner.
5/5
I have enjoyed all of Ross Welford’s previous books and bought this one as soon as it came out. I feel that all of his books have a similar style of writing and this one was no exception. It was all the mystery and excitement you would expect from this author. I find that normally around halfway through his novels I have no idea how it will play out, yet feel that the ending is satisfactory. This unique feature of Welford’s books is what causes me to continuously buy his newest book.
I enjoyed the characters in this book. I felt that the protagonists were relatable, yet interesting. I found Duke particularly fascinating and his monkey plays a big part in the plot. I felt the multiple person narrative was interesting as it enabled the reader to see the full picture.
I especially enjoyed the epilogue and ending as the story felt complete. I feel that Welford’s endings always feel satisfying, while not being to long and risking losing the readers interest. The epilogue perfectly captured the nature of the novel and was a good closing text to this brilliant novel.
The novel felt well paced. It was a page turner, yet I felt a good amount of detail was given. Welford’s unique pacing means the reader can feel hooked on the book not wanting to put it down, yet the book does not feel rushed. I read this book in one sitting and felt captivated by the novel the full time.
Overall, I would say this is a fantastic book for anyone who loves Welford’s previous books, or this wanting an exciting page turner.
5/5
May 30, 2025
OK. Honest opinions over here.
The book was... okay if said from a point of view of a 13 year old loll.
The book was a bit boring in the first half. What im trying to say that the plot took a lot of pages and chapters to develop. It was quite hard to read the book as well, cuz almost each chaoter was from a different perspective of characters qhich was hard to keep track of and took time to change mind pov from one character to another.
The plot, when developed was quite interesting though.
At the end, i would like to say that, read this book if ur a kid or read books which are for kids. Techincally, Ross Welford is a children's author so if i say from that point of view, its a really great book.
The book was... okay if said from a point of view of a 13 year old loll.
The book was a bit boring in the first half. What im trying to say that the plot took a lot of pages and chapters to develop. It was quite hard to read the book as well, cuz almost each chaoter was from a different perspective of characters qhich was hard to keep track of and took time to change mind pov from one character to another.
The plot, when developed was quite interesting though.
At the end, i would like to say that, read this book if ur a kid or read books which are for kids. Techincally, Ross Welford is a children's author so if i say from that point of view, its a really great book.
April 20, 2023
Ross Welford is a wonderful writer. I have read all of his books and I have loved every single one of them. When I saw he had a new one, I ran to my library to get it, and oh boy! He has done it again. Magic.
This book had me wondering, had me in tears (as a mum of a 9yo, I could totally feel what Melissa, Freddy and Nanny Moon were feeling), made me anxious, and made me happy.
I feel a bit sad that Ocean, Pierre, Kylie and Thomas didn't get to spend time together and learn stuff from each other.
I can't wait for my wee one to read all of Ross Welford 's books and discover all these truly amazing adventures! :)
This book had me wondering, had me in tears (as a mum of a 9yo, I could totally feel what Melissa, Freddy and Nanny Moon were feeling), made me anxious, and made me happy.
I feel a bit sad that Ocean, Pierre, Kylie and Thomas didn't get to spend time together and learn stuff from each other.
I can't wait for my wee one to read all of Ross Welford 's books and discover all these truly amazing adventures! :)
June 5, 2023
The Monkey Who Fell From The Future is an enticing story about Thomas Reeve's strange cousin Kylie coming to stay at their home from Australia. Kylie thinks Thomas likes her, but he really doesn't and Kylie stops all his plans. But, Kylie soon reveals her secret, a time tablet to speak to the future. Suddenly, Kylie and Thomas go to Andy and Des's show, where the time tablet malfunctions and Kylie and Thomas switch places with Ocean Mooney, from the year 2425, will they get to switch back places again? ...
June 7, 2024
I love these books. They’re not a series but some are loosely linked. This one appears to be stand alone. They’re just lovely. So we’ll written, gentle, meaningful and just good. Really enjoyable. It’s not my favourite Ross Welford, but you can take from that an indication of just how blooming good they actually are, when one this good is not my favourite!!!!
June 8, 2024
As usual a thoughtful, almost wistful narrative with lots of adventure and fun and well developed main characters. This is a step or two on from Time Travelling with a Hamster etc in that it is even more science focused and obviously time travelling focused, so perfect for science fans who tend to disregard fiction.
July 18, 2025
I liked reading this book and I thought it was funny. My favorite character was Monsieur Lumière, he was such a hilarious character with the way he said long words. I enjoyed reading this book and I liked the overall idea of time traveling to the future. Their accent's were funny too. Also the cover is gorgeous.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2024
Good but not as good as I hoped. There's really not enough about the monkey and it takes too long for him to fall through time. It probably would've been better to have begun with that and told the story through flashback.
It was however great to have a story set in Newcastle. That worked really well, the locations unusual for a novel. Indeed I think this novel is unique in mentioning Culvercot.
The ending is also good but a bit more would've been nice. Perhaps it's setting up a sequel but it would've been good to hear about how the experience affected the main characters.
It was however great to have a story set in Newcastle. That worked really well, the locations unusual for a novel. Indeed I think this novel is unique in mentioning Culvercot.
The ending is also good but a bit more would've been nice. Perhaps it's setting up a sequel but it would've been good to hear about how the experience affected the main characters.
December 30, 2024
Very good book. Nice storyline. Might be a bit confusing to people under the age of about 9. Flips from one time zone to another for chapters. Quite sci- fi and a nice read for pre teens, teens and all adults. Aged 9-99 recommend!
January 8, 2024
I really enjoyed it
August 28, 2024
3.5. Good story!
September 19, 2024
Not his best but it was good
December 15, 2024
This is not that bad but it's fun to read this, it's kinda funny too
January 17, 2025
The book was very interesting and fun to read
Read
August 11, 2025Definitely not one of the best works of Ross Welford. The french use somewhat disturbs the read, otherwise the story and features are great, just a bit too influenced by French.
February 16, 2023
The Monkey Who Fell From the Future was an impressive book which I very much enjoyed.
I have enjoyed all of Ross Welford’s previous books and bought this one as soon as it came out. I feel that all of his books have a similar style of writing and this one was no exception. It was all the mystery and excitement you would expect from this author. I find that normally around halfway through his novels I have no idea how it will play out, yet feel that the ending is satisfactory. This unique feature of Welford’s books is what causes me to continuously buy his newest book.
I enjoyed the characters in this book. I felt that the protagonists were relatable, yet interesting. I found Duke particularly fascinating and his monkey plays a big part in the plot. I felt the multiple person narrative was interesting as it enabled the reader to see the full picture.
I especially enjoyed the epilogue and ending as the story felt complete. I feel that Welford’s endings always feel satisfying, while not being to long and risking losing the readers interest. The epilogue perfectly captured the nature of the novel and was a good closing text to this brilliant novel.
The novel felt well paced. It was a page turner, yet I felt a good amount of detail was given. Welford’s unique pacing means the reader can feel hooked on the book not wanting to put it down, yet the book does not feel rushed. I read this book in one sitting and felt captivated by the novel the full time.
Overall, I would say this is a fantastic book for anyone who loves Welford’s previous books, or this wanting an exciting page turner.
5/5
I have enjoyed all of Ross Welford’s previous books and bought this one as soon as it came out. I feel that all of his books have a similar style of writing and this one was no exception. It was all the mystery and excitement you would expect from this author. I find that normally around halfway through his novels I have no idea how it will play out, yet feel that the ending is satisfactory. This unique feature of Welford’s books is what causes me to continuously buy his newest book.
I enjoyed the characters in this book. I felt that the protagonists were relatable, yet interesting. I found Duke particularly fascinating and his monkey plays a big part in the plot. I felt the multiple person narrative was interesting as it enabled the reader to see the full picture.
I especially enjoyed the epilogue and ending as the story felt complete. I feel that Welford’s endings always feel satisfying, while not being to long and risking losing the readers interest. The epilogue perfectly captured the nature of the novel and was a good closing text to this brilliant novel.
The novel felt well paced. It was a page turner, yet I felt a good amount of detail was given. Welford’s unique pacing means the reader can feel hooked on the book not wanting to put it down, yet the book does not feel rushed. I read this book in one sitting and felt captivated by the novel the full time.
Overall, I would say this is a fantastic book for anyone who loves Welford’s previous books, or this wanting an exciting page turner.
5/5
October 26, 2023
It was alright.Kinda confusing.
July 28, 2025
I loved the book it was intriguing but at the same time educational
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2025
The plot was kinda average as compared to other ross welford books , I would recommend it for 10 or 11 year olds .
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews