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The Monkey and The Way of Zen: A Transformational Journey in 28 Short Stories—Embrace Mindfulness, Overcome Overthinking, Let Go, and Find Inner Peace and Happiness
A Calm Companion for When the Mind Won’t SettleDoes your mind ever feel like a restless monkey—jumping from thought to thought, never quite landing?
The Monkey and The Way of Zen is a collection of 28 short, Zen-inspired stories, designed to be read slowly, gently, and without effort.
Through quiet encounters between a curious monkey and a patient Zen master, each story offers a pause from mental noise. Not answers to hold onto, but moments of stillness to rest in.
Endorsed by Buddhist practitioners and mental health professionals, the book is appreciated for its warmth, simplicity, and quiet depth, offering calm without techniques, rules, or self-improvement.
“A beautiful companion for anyone exploring mindfulness, presence, and the art of letting go.” — Noah Rasheta, author of No-Nonsense Buddhism for Beginners
What this book offers
◆ 28 short stories you can read or listen to in just 5–10 minutes
◆ A gentle, contemplative atmosphere that softens mental tension naturally
◆ Stories that feel like sitting quietly with a wise friend
◆ A book many readers keep by the bed and return to often.
There is nothing to practise.
Nothing to fix.
Nothing to figure out.
Just stories that create space.
A different kind of wisdomRather than offering techniques or rigid philosophies, the stories allow insight to emerge naturally — through falling blossoms, small conversations, and moments of stillness.
Readers often say they don’t rush through this book.
They open it when life feels heavy.
They notice they’re breathing again.
Exclusive reader bonuses included
Inside the book, you’ll also find access to five exclusive companion resources,
◆ A simple guide to the Zen insights behind each story
◆ A final, bonus-only conversation between the Monkey and the Master
◆ Six beautifully designed mobile wallpapers with reflective quotes
◆ Five short, two-minute reflections for everyday calm
◆ A guided meditation collection for those who wish to explore further
More than a storybook, this is a quiet companion — one you can return to whenever life feels noisy.
Sometimes, a simple story is enough.
Scroll up and click “Add to Cart” to begin.
The Monkey and The Way of Zen is a collection of 28 short, Zen-inspired stories, designed to be read slowly, gently, and without effort.
Through quiet encounters between a curious monkey and a patient Zen master, each story offers a pause from mental noise. Not answers to hold onto, but moments of stillness to rest in.
Endorsed by Buddhist practitioners and mental health professionals, the book is appreciated for its warmth, simplicity, and quiet depth, offering calm without techniques, rules, or self-improvement.
“A beautiful companion for anyone exploring mindfulness, presence, and the art of letting go.” — Noah Rasheta, author of No-Nonsense Buddhism for Beginners
What this book offers
◆ 28 short stories you can read or listen to in just 5–10 minutes
◆ A gentle, contemplative atmosphere that softens mental tension naturally
◆ Stories that feel like sitting quietly with a wise friend
◆ A book many readers keep by the bed and return to often.
There is nothing to practise.
Nothing to fix.
Nothing to figure out.
Just stories that create space.
A different kind of wisdomRather than offering techniques or rigid philosophies, the stories allow insight to emerge naturally — through falling blossoms, small conversations, and moments of stillness.
Readers often say they don’t rush through this book.
They open it when life feels heavy.
They notice they’re breathing again.
Exclusive reader bonuses included
Inside the book, you’ll also find access to five exclusive companion resources,
◆ A simple guide to the Zen insights behind each story
◆ A final, bonus-only conversation between the Monkey and the Master
◆ Six beautifully designed mobile wallpapers with reflective quotes
◆ Five short, two-minute reflections for everyday calm
◆ A guided meditation collection for those who wish to explore further
More than a storybook, this is a quiet companion — one you can return to whenever life feels noisy.
Sometimes, a simple story is enough.
Scroll up and click “Add to Cart” to begin.
- GenresPhilosophySelf Help
153 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 20, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 25, 2025
Twenty-eight short, easy to read stories told through the eyes of a monkey searching for meaning. I absolutely loved this book and the way it was written.
September 1, 2025
BookSloth has always had a soft spot for books with monkeys in them. Maybe it’s their mischief, maybe the way they mirror our own restless minds—but when a writer builds wisdom around a monkey, she can’t resist.
But this isn’t about monkey mischief—it’s Zen nudges disguised as stories.
The first time she read this, she tore through it. But that’s not the right way to read a book like this. The moment that sealed it as a keeper came later: a restless, sleepless night, when her mind wouldn’t settle. This was the book she reached for, and she let Monkey keep her company. One gentle story, then another, until the noise in her head softened. By the time she closed the book, she still wasn’t asleep but she was calmer, and that was enough.
The 28 stories are linked like stepping stones. Each stands alone, a koan in miniature, but together they carry you somewhere deeper. BookSloth didn’t feel lectured. She felt led. Monkey’s journey keeps you moving forward; the Master’s stillness keeps you grounded. Somewhere along the way, the path becomes your own.
And then there’s the artwork. It’s incredible. Black-and-white illustrations that slow you down and make you look, carrying the same quiet insight as the words. The art is one of the reasons BookSloth bought the physical copy after reading on KU. It elevates the whole reading experience.
BookSloth loved this book. Truly, glowingly, wholeheartedly loved it. Loved it enough to buy it twice. Loved it enough to keep it in arm’s reach. Loved it enough to know it’s one of those rare books she’ll return to again and again—for comfort, for perspective, for a smile.
She encourages you to buy the paperback; some books don’t belong in the cloud, they belong on the shelf you reach for on messy days. Read it when your monkey mind needs something to rest on.
And she would love to see a second volume. Because if Serena Choo offered 28 more stories with Monkey and Master, BookSloth would walk that path again in a heartbeat.
But this isn’t about monkey mischief—it’s Zen nudges disguised as stories.
The first time she read this, she tore through it. But that’s not the right way to read a book like this. The moment that sealed it as a keeper came later: a restless, sleepless night, when her mind wouldn’t settle. This was the book she reached for, and she let Monkey keep her company. One gentle story, then another, until the noise in her head softened. By the time she closed the book, she still wasn’t asleep but she was calmer, and that was enough.
The 28 stories are linked like stepping stones. Each stands alone, a koan in miniature, but together they carry you somewhere deeper. BookSloth didn’t feel lectured. She felt led. Monkey’s journey keeps you moving forward; the Master’s stillness keeps you grounded. Somewhere along the way, the path becomes your own.
And then there’s the artwork. It’s incredible. Black-and-white illustrations that slow you down and make you look, carrying the same quiet insight as the words. The art is one of the reasons BookSloth bought the physical copy after reading on KU. It elevates the whole reading experience.
BookSloth loved this book. Truly, glowingly, wholeheartedly loved it. Loved it enough to buy it twice. Loved it enough to keep it in arm’s reach. Loved it enough to know it’s one of those rare books she’ll return to again and again—for comfort, for perspective, for a smile.
She encourages you to buy the paperback; some books don’t belong in the cloud, they belong on the shelf you reach for on messy days. Read it when your monkey mind needs something to rest on.
And she would love to see a second volume. Because if Serena Choo offered 28 more stories with Monkey and Master, BookSloth would walk that path again in a heartbeat.
April 30, 2025
The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
EDITORIAL REVIEW
2025
TITLE: The Monkey and the Way of Zen
AUTHOR: Serena Choo
Star Rating: 5
‘A thought-provoking and highly stimulating look at life and how to live it in a calmer, less controlling, and stress-free way. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
I think I’m a lot like the monkey in this story – restless, always worrying about, well, anything – and everything. I need to do the shopping, I need to pay the bills, I need to... and so on and so on. So I happily settled down with The Monkey and the Way of Zen. And, I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The writing style flows well, and the topics it covers – trust, control, overthinking life, the endless battle to be what we can never be – were thought-provoking and, well, interesting.
So, what’s it about? In a nutshell, it’s the story of a restless monkey who sets off into the jungle to find a master - A teacher who spoke of things beyond what the monkey had ever known. When he finds him, the master offers him wisdom which helps him to calm his thoughts, reducing his need to control everything around him. And, I can honestly say, as I was reading story after story – there are 28 in all – I found myself reflecting on my own need to control every aspect of my life.
I suspect A LOT of readers will find this book not only compelling, but also stimulating, challenging (in a good way) and inspiring. I would particularly recommend it to people who have a difficult time of letting go, who always seem to be in a state of stress. I think, like the monkey, they’ll find the master’s message – and the way he puts it over – thoroughly enlightening. All in all, an utterly charming read.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
PS
I loved the illustrations too!
EDITORIAL REVIEW
2025
TITLE: The Monkey and the Way of Zen
AUTHOR: Serena Choo
Star Rating: 5
‘A thought-provoking and highly stimulating look at life and how to live it in a calmer, less controlling, and stress-free way. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
I think I’m a lot like the monkey in this story – restless, always worrying about, well, anything – and everything. I need to do the shopping, I need to pay the bills, I need to... and so on and so on. So I happily settled down with The Monkey and the Way of Zen. And, I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The writing style flows well, and the topics it covers – trust, control, overthinking life, the endless battle to be what we can never be – were thought-provoking and, well, interesting.
So, what’s it about? In a nutshell, it’s the story of a restless monkey who sets off into the jungle to find a master - A teacher who spoke of things beyond what the monkey had ever known. When he finds him, the master offers him wisdom which helps him to calm his thoughts, reducing his need to control everything around him. And, I can honestly say, as I was reading story after story – there are 28 in all – I found myself reflecting on my own need to control every aspect of my life.
I suspect A LOT of readers will find this book not only compelling, but also stimulating, challenging (in a good way) and inspiring. I would particularly recommend it to people who have a difficult time of letting go, who always seem to be in a state of stress. I think, like the monkey, they’ll find the master’s message – and the way he puts it over – thoroughly enlightening. All in all, an utterly charming read.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
PS
I loved the illustrations too!
March 31, 2026
Come, sit for a while. There is no rush. No urgency.
Thus begins this book. It takes you on a leisurely journey laced with wisdom and timeless insights.
The story starts with a monkey who is not satisfied with a mundane existence. When he seeks out his friends, asking them whether they ever feel that there is more to life, they ridicule him. Not finding anyone to share his views and thoughts, the monkey gets frustrated.
One day, he learns about a master who seemingly had answers to all the questions of life. The monkey sets off in search of him, thus earning the name, 'The Wandering Monkey'. He meets the master as a frustrated and restless monkey, irritated with the trials and tribulations of life and seeking peace.
The monkey represents the quintessential human, always in search of something that would provide unshakeable peace, something that would provide answers to all the questions in life. The book proceeds to show the monkey's transformation - from a grumbling, disturbed and troubled soul, to someone who realizes that he was always free and unbound.
The monkey's conversations with the master are timeless in their wisdom. The chapters are extremely soothing to read. The master's guidance seeks us out, providing solutions to the several problems that humankind faces on a daily basis. Be it the fear of judgement, be it the disappointments that the days bring, be it the fear of the future - this book has a chapter dedicated to all of these.
I am becoming a huge fan of zen-centric stories. Their essence, the backdrop of these stories - usually a monastery snuggled amidst majestic hills, or as in the case of this book, a dense jungle through which a river flows, the wise masters that grace every story - all these make zen-centric books a meditative experience.
This book is simply brilliant and I am highly recommending it for readers looking for peace, or searching for that elusive 'something' that keeps bothering the mind. You will definitely find your answers in this book.
Thus begins this book. It takes you on a leisurely journey laced with wisdom and timeless insights.
The story starts with a monkey who is not satisfied with a mundane existence. When he seeks out his friends, asking them whether they ever feel that there is more to life, they ridicule him. Not finding anyone to share his views and thoughts, the monkey gets frustrated.
One day, he learns about a master who seemingly had answers to all the questions of life. The monkey sets off in search of him, thus earning the name, 'The Wandering Monkey'. He meets the master as a frustrated and restless monkey, irritated with the trials and tribulations of life and seeking peace.
The monkey represents the quintessential human, always in search of something that would provide unshakeable peace, something that would provide answers to all the questions in life. The book proceeds to show the monkey's transformation - from a grumbling, disturbed and troubled soul, to someone who realizes that he was always free and unbound.
The monkey's conversations with the master are timeless in their wisdom. The chapters are extremely soothing to read. The master's guidance seeks us out, providing solutions to the several problems that humankind faces on a daily basis. Be it the fear of judgement, be it the disappointments that the days bring, be it the fear of the future - this book has a chapter dedicated to all of these.
I am becoming a huge fan of zen-centric stories. Their essence, the backdrop of these stories - usually a monastery snuggled amidst majestic hills, or as in the case of this book, a dense jungle through which a river flows, the wise masters that grace every story - all these make zen-centric books a meditative experience.
This book is simply brilliant and I am highly recommending it for readers looking for peace, or searching for that elusive 'something' that keeps bothering the mind. You will definitely find your answers in this book.
Currently Reading
August 27, 202528 calming short stories from the simple philosophy of Zen, to help you quiet your mind, release old patterns, and rediscover a simpler way of being—endorsed by Buddhist practitioners and mental health professionals.⭐ Let Go of Overthinking, Make Peace with Uncertainty, and Find Freedom in the Present Moment ⭐
(No meditation retreats, rigid philosophies, or complicated teachings required.)
Ever feel like your mind is swinging from thought to thought, caught in endless loops of worry and second-guessing?Analyze every outcome, try to stay one step ahead, and try to control an unpredictable world?Tired of striving to “fix” yourself can just want to feel at ease in your own mind?🌿 What if peace isn’t something you have to chase or figure out?
Come on a journey of wisdom, humor, and transformation with The Monkey and the Way of Zen. Through 28 engaging and lighthearted stories, you'll follow a restless Monkey as he seeks answers from a wise Master—learning unexpected life lessons along the way.
(No meditation retreats, rigid philosophies, or complicated teachings required.)
Ever feel like your mind is swinging from thought to thought, caught in endless loops of worry and second-guessing?Analyze every outcome, try to stay one step ahead, and try to control an unpredictable world?Tired of striving to “fix” yourself can just want to feel at ease in your own mind?🌿 What if peace isn’t something you have to chase or figure out?
Come on a journey of wisdom, humor, and transformation with The Monkey and the Way of Zen. Through 28 engaging and lighthearted stories, you'll follow a restless Monkey as he seeks answers from a wise Master—learning unexpected life lessons along the way.
May 11, 2025
Chapters are quick and have beautiful writing style and tone, which got my attention pretty quick.
Every chapter has a short story that you can reflect, learn, think, and re-tell to other people. I actually had a pretty fun and heated discussion with my friends about the story from chapter 6. Pretty good.
Good read if you are practicing gratitude before bed or having a gratitude journal. You can pick any story from this book and reflect on it from your daily life. Example: "In what way have you tried to reshape yourself into identity that truly was not yours?" - great question to truthfully answer yourself.
I also really enjoy illustrations that every chapter started with.
Highly recommend it.
Every chapter has a short story that you can reflect, learn, think, and re-tell to other people. I actually had a pretty fun and heated discussion with my friends about the story from chapter 6. Pretty good.
Good read if you are practicing gratitude before bed or having a gratitude journal. You can pick any story from this book and reflect on it from your daily life. Example: "In what way have you tried to reshape yourself into identity that truly was not yours?" - great question to truthfully answer yourself.
I also really enjoy illustrations that every chapter started with.
Highly recommend it.
June 3, 2025
Written as an allegorical tale – actually 28 linked short stories – of a monkey seeking release from suffering, for me, this the book falls uneasily between stools. True, it does deal with many of the concepts espoused by Zen philosophy, but the use of a monkey as the central character means that it takes on the air of a fairy tale; and the writing style is possibly more suited to a YA audience. (Yes, I know that the likes of Paul Coelho can weave fantasy with profound messages, but that is a very difficult feat to pull off.) However, that is not to say that a first-time reader of Zen Buddhist material might not find value in this introductory work. The author’s intention is good; and the illustrations, I must say, are excellent.
June 4, 2025
Peaceful and Powerful in the Simplest Way
The Monkey and the Way of Zen is a beautiful book that gently teaches you how to slow down, breathe, and let go of what you can’t control. The short stories are simple yet deep, and each one shares a lesson through the Monkey’s journey that feels real and relatable. I found myself smiling, reflecting, and feeling more at ease after each chapter. You don’t need to be a Zen expert to understand it, just a curious heart. This book helped me stop overthinking and start being more present. It’s like having a wise friend gently guiding you toward peace.
The Monkey and the Way of Zen is a beautiful book that gently teaches you how to slow down, breathe, and let go of what you can’t control. The short stories are simple yet deep, and each one shares a lesson through the Monkey’s journey that feels real and relatable. I found myself smiling, reflecting, and feeling more at ease after each chapter. You don’t need to be a Zen expert to understand it, just a curious heart. This book helped me stop overthinking and start being more present. It’s like having a wise friend gently guiding you toward peace.
July 26, 2025
The Monkey and The Way of Zen offers a beautifully simple yet profound journey through 28 short stories that gently teach mindfulness and the art of letting go. Each story feels like a little moment of calm in a busy world, helping me pause, reflect, and slowly unwind the habit of overthinking.
I appreciated how the book blends Buddhist wisdom with everyday life in a way that feels accessible and relatable. It’s not heavy or preachy—just warm and encouraging, like a friend reminding you to slow down and be present. If you’re looking for a peaceful way to bring more mindfulness and happiness into your life, this book is a wonderful companion.
I appreciated how the book blends Buddhist wisdom with everyday life in a way that feels accessible and relatable. It’s not heavy or preachy—just warm and encouraging, like a friend reminding you to slow down and be present. If you’re looking for a peaceful way to bring more mindfulness and happiness into your life, this book is a wonderful companion.
December 7, 2025
Amazing book!!!! MUST READ, every page is inspiring
This is a fascinating collection of tales that offer bite-sized insights into Zen thinking. The stories featuring monkeys, other animals, and everyday people are simple on the surface but reveal deeper meanings about human nature, attachment, and enlightenment. I found myself reading one or two at a time and then reflecting on them. It's not a linear philosophy book but a book of parables. A great introduction to Buddhist thought through storytelling.
This is a fascinating collection of tales that offer bite-sized insights into Zen thinking. The stories featuring monkeys, other animals, and everyday people are simple on the surface but reveal deeper meanings about human nature, attachment, and enlightenment. I found myself reading one or two at a time and then reflecting on them. It's not a linear philosophy book but a book of parables. A great introduction to Buddhist thought through storytelling.
November 19, 2025
A friend bought me the book for my birthday, i absolutely loved it!
While brief, the story leaves a lasting impression.
It's a book that can be read in an afternoon but lingers much longer, offering gentle reminders about patience, presence and the value of embracing the journey rather than rushing towards adestination.
The lessons unfold naturally through the monkey's encounters....
Mel Dendrinos
While brief, the story leaves a lasting impression.
It's a book that can be read in an afternoon but lingers much longer, offering gentle reminders about patience, presence and the value of embracing the journey rather than rushing towards adestination.
The lessons unfold naturally through the monkey's encounters....
Mel Dendrinos
April 26, 2025
Re-teaching Life's Lessons
It's east as we got older to become jaded, opinionated, and judgemental of what is around us. This book of short stories re-teaches us lessons we may have forgotten or maybe never learned. The bonus is that it is in such an easy-to- read format. This one's a keeper!
It's east as we got older to become jaded, opinionated, and judgemental of what is around us. This book of short stories re-teaches us lessons we may have forgotten or maybe never learned. The bonus is that it is in such an easy-to- read format. This one's a keeper!
June 2, 2025
This was such an unexpected treat. It’s lyrical and thought provoking with a likeable monkey protagonist. I like how the stories progress and the learning that unfolds for the character and you the reader. Choo has a wonderful way with words and I was left wanting more (which is always a great sign!)
June 2, 2025
Transform with the monkey
Each single Zen story, including each in this book, reveals an insight. What makes this book so special is the cumulative effect of this group of collective tales as we share in the monkey's transformation through each story. I suggest reading a story a day to accompany the monkey on his journey, and yours. A wonderful read.
Each single Zen story, including each in this book, reveals an insight. What makes this book so special is the cumulative effect of this group of collective tales as we share in the monkey's transformation through each story. I suggest reading a story a day to accompany the monkey on his journey, and yours. A wonderful read.
September 27, 2025
A calming and relatable read
This is a beautifully written collection of simple, Zen inspired stories that feel calming, relatable, and never preachy. The monkey’s journey mirrors our own overthinking minds, with each gentle lesson offering peace and clarity. Easy to read, thoughtful, and perfect for quiet moments or a bedtime reset.
This is a beautifully written collection of simple, Zen inspired stories that feel calming, relatable, and never preachy. The monkey’s journey mirrors our own overthinking minds, with each gentle lesson offering peace and clarity. Easy to read, thoughtful, and perfect for quiet moments or a bedtime reset.
December 31, 2025
Gentle and calming
Each short story offers a soft shift in perspective that eases overthinking and stress the monkeys journey feels relatable, the lessons linger, and the tone is warm without being preachy. A beautiful companion for finding mindfulness and peace in everyday life.
Each short story offers a soft shift in perspective that eases overthinking and stress the monkeys journey feels relatable, the lessons linger, and the tone is warm without being preachy. A beautiful companion for finding mindfulness and peace in everyday life.
June 19, 2025
Lovely stories
I enjoyed reading the stories in this book. The morals from the story are apparent, but the stories are illustrative of each moral. I'm not familiar with Buddha, but I'd like to think these follow his teachings.
I enjoyed reading the stories in this book. The morals from the story are apparent, but the stories are illustrative of each moral. I'm not familiar with Buddha, but I'd like to think these follow his teachings.
October 7, 2025
letting go of your stories
These stories are easy to apply to everyone. I gained personal insight from several of them. Great read as an introduction or part of on going studies in personal growth.
These stories are easy to apply to everyone. I gained personal insight from several of them. Great read as an introduction or part of on going studies in personal growth.
December 30, 2025
It took me a while to get through this book because I felt the stories and their messages were repetitive.
March 10, 2026
Terrific read! I hope you will take the plunge and begin reading. I believe it will speak to you as it did to me.
May 2, 2026
Great Insights!
Stories told in a simple way that make it easy to understand.
Application of the lessons is the lifelong journey!
Stories told in a simple way that make it easy to understand.
Application of the lessons is the lifelong journey!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews