The Magical Monkey King:
Mischief in Heaven

Adopted From the Classic Chinese Tale by Ji-li Jiang
Illustrated by Youshan Tang
Published by Shen's Book

Now serialized in 16 countries for International Literacy Day

Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, China, India, Indonesia, Liberia, Mexico, Palestinian Authority, Romania, Russia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Tanzania, Uganda

Born from a mysterious stone egg atop a towering mountain, he quickly expresses his pleasure in laughter. "It was a long, mischievous laugh, loud enough to shake the tall trees to their roots and cause the earth to tremble." Monkey's laugh is heard clear up in heaven, and eventually he causes the heavenly folk to tremble, too.    .... >> more
  Brief Introduction

In China, thousands of years ago, amidst a terrible storm, a stone monkey comes to life. "Monkey," as he is known in the story, then created many adventures that have magnetized us for generations.

The Magical Monkey King is a partial adaptation of one of China's favorite classics, Journey to the West. In this first episode, we learn how Monkey is born, becomes King of the monkey clan, how in his search for immortality he alternately charms and annoys the Jade Emperor, the ruler of the universe, and what happens when he finally encounters the Great Buddha.

A fairy tale of triumphs over adversity as Monkey King becomes more human. His magical powers, his cleverness, as well as his mischief and fearless rebellion against authority make him a favorite character for children all over the world.

What did they say about Monkey King?

I enjoy your story the Monkey King, but don't like having to wait for Friday to read it because I love it so much! I can't believe your story is ending so soon!
Ben Sandry
- McMahon School, Maine

At one school she visited, the students surprised her (and me) with a play of the first chapter of the story (complete with students playing Chinese music). The story came to life! It was incredible and everything I had envisioned when I started publishing the serialized stories--not students just "reading" the story, but experiencing it as well.
Sandra McGehee
- Director of Educational Services, The Brownsville Herald

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