Duff's Monkey Business

Deborah Dowson is a Canadian children’s librarian in North Wales,
Pennsylvania.

Duff loves to play make-believe, but when he tells his parents that
there is a monkey in their barn, they think it is just his imagination
at work again. This time, however, Duff is telling the truth, and the
problem is that no one except his best friend, Simon, believes him. On
top of that he has a live monkey to feed and care for. At first it is
fun, but soon it becomes a burden. Being teased about the
“imaginary” monkey is no fun either. It isn’t until the circus
comes to town that the dilemma is happily resolved and everyone realizes
that Duff has been telling the truth all along.

This pleasing First Novel contains all the characteristics that make
this series a winner for beginning chapter-book readers. Clear, simple
text and lively illustrations combine with a clever plot, lots of
action, and charming characters to create a story that is nicely paced,
interesting, and fun to read. A good choice for primary-level
collections. Recommended.