Grumpy Monkey: School Stinks!

Reach for this book when your child is digging in their heels about the upcoming school year or expressing vocal frustration about leaving the comforts of home. While many back-to-school books focus on forced cheerfulness, Suzanne Lang validates the 'grumpy' perspective through the beloved Jim Panzee. It is an essential tool for children who feel pressured to 'act happy' when they are actually feeling overwhelmed, irritable, or anxious about new routines. The story follows Jim as he navigates a disastrous-feeling first day where everything seems to go wrong, from itchy uniforms to confusing lessons. By the end, the book offers a realistic middle ground: school might not be perfect, and it is okay to think it 'stinks' sometimes, but there are bright spots like friends and recess that make it worth the effort. It is perfect for children ages 3 to 7 who appreciate humor and honesty over sentimentality.