The Monkey and The Way of Zen cover art

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 (Zen Philosophy Books)

Preview

Get 30 days of Standard free

£5.99/mo after trial. Cancel monthly.
Try for £0.00
More purchase options
Buy Now for £10.63

Buy Now for £10.63

About this listen

Let go of overthinking, make peace with uncertainty, and discover a calmer way of living—without needing to attend meditation retreats, follow rigid philosophies, or master complicated teachings. The Monkey and the Way of Zen is a lighthearted yet profound journey told through 28 short stories, following a restless Monkey and his encounters with a wise Master. As the Monkey stumbles through his questions, doubts, and frustrations, he begins to uncover a quieter truth beneath the noise of his thoughts.

In these gentle, engaging tales, you’ll find wisdom wrapped in humor and simplicity—unexpected lessons that don’t tell you how to fix yourself, but invite you to see life through a softer lens. You’ll hear about the Master’s unusual perspective on “good” and “bad,” and how it helped the Monkey stop trying to control everything. You’ll laugh as the Monkey wrestles with taking two steps forward and one step back—and learn what helped him finally feel unstuck. And you may find your own moment of ease in the Monkey’s quiet reflection as he watches a cherry blossom fall. These calming stories are easy to return to—perfect for listening over coffee, before bed, or any time you need a moment of peace. They don’t preach or overwhelm. Instead, they meet you where you are, gently shifting your perspective so that life feels lighter, less exhausting, and a little more magical.

Written for modern listeners by an author with ancestral roots in the Chinese scholar tradition, this book blends timeless Zen insights with everyday challenges we all face. Imagine feeling calm even when life doesn’t go your way. Imagine moving through your day with more mindfulness, more humor, and more ease. Come—your inner monkey is waiting.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2025 Serena Choo (P)2025 Serena Choo
Anthologies & Short Stories Buddhism Philosophy Short Stories Witty Feel-Good Funny Inspiring Heartfelt Thought-Provoking Meditation Mindfulness
All stars
Most relevant

Listener received this title free

This was a beautifully written book that offers a gentle and thoughtful journey into mindfulness and letting go. The short stories are simple and relatable, each one shares a lesson through the Monkey’s journey that gets you thinking about your life. Each chapter teaches a lesson. The Pause and Reflect section at the end of every chapter was my favorite part. I found myself really enjoying this time for reflection. I found myself thinking deeply about the message and considering how it might apply to my life. It turns a simple reading experience into something more introspective and personal. Each short story delivers a powerful message about slowing down, breathing deeply, and finding inner peace. I tend to go to much and stay to busy. This was a reminder that I want more calmness and peace in my life. I enjoyed this book very much and one I will read again.

Embracing Inner Peace

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

Listener received this title free

This audiobook is like a warm cup of tea for your overthinking mind—gentle, funny, and quietly profound. The Monkey’s journey is relatable and refreshing, offering bite-sized lessons in mindfulness without the heavy-handedness. It’s perfect for winding down, letting go, and learning to laugh at life (and yourself) just a little more.

Zen Wisdom with a Playful Twist

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

Listener received this title free

This audiobook is filled with simple and beautiful stories where each teach you a lesson to learn in life. The narrator's voice in calming and inviting which helps in being more receptive to the message. The stories follow a very logical progression about how we feel about life and how to change our perspective in order to influence growth. As I was listening to the book at times I felt that it was a child questioning life but then I realize how us as adults experience variations of the stories hared. This resource is a good way to practice mindfulness.

The Zen Monkey

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

Listener received this title free

It is so very rare to find a book that I will buy in multiple formats to read again and again - and this lovely book is one of them. Full of warm wisdom and quiet brilliance. Thank you.

The perfect book to read again and again!

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

Listener received this title free

The Monkey and the Way of Zen is a gentle, uplifting listen that turns complex Zen philosophy into simple, relatable stories. Each short tale between the Monkey and his Master feels light yet profound, offering calming insights without heavy teachings. Perfect for moments when you’re feeling overwhelmed, this audiobook helps quiet the mind, ease overthinking, and invite peace into everyday life. It’s the kind of book you’ll want to return to whenever life feels a little too heavy.

Simple Wisdom, Lasting Calm

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

See more reviews