Charlie and the Funky Monkeys Challenge
BY Michelle schreiner, ph.D.
An empowering picture book about courage, confidence, and breaking stereotypes—perfect for kids ages 4-8.
When Charlie visits a museum and sees a game “meant for boys,” she’s told to sit it out. But Charlie has other plans. With a little encouragement and a lot of heart, she takes on the Funky Monkeys Challenge, and discovers what she’s capable of.
Sneak Peak
ABOUT THE BOOK
An empowering story for young minds
Meet Charlie, a curious and determined young girl who isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. During a visit to the museum, Charlie stumbles upon a video game testing puzzle-solving skills, and she’s told it’s not for girls.
Inspired by real psychological research and written by a cognitive psychologist, Charlie and the Funky Monkeys Challenge is a playful, heartwarming story that helps kids build confidence, confront limiting beliefs, and celebrate what makes them brave.
This empowering read-aloud is perfect for classrooms, bedtime stories, and anyone looking to show kids that courage and curiosity go hand-in-hand.
Themes
→ Confidence and Self-Belief
→ Growth Mindset
→ Gender Equity
→ Family & Sibling Support
→ STEM Readiness
behind THE BOOK
A heartfelt conversation
Every story has a beginning.
Charlie and the Funky Monkeys Challenge was born from a spark of imagination, but it took deep inner work, courage, and community to bring it to life.
These two heartfelt interviews capture that journey. From the fears I had to face, to the empowering research that inspired the plot, to the joyful moments with my twins—I’m honored to share the story behind the story.
🎥 Interview with Miriam Laundry
Tears, full-circle joy, and deep gratitude. This was a meaningful conversation, one that reminded me how powerful it is to be seen and heard.
🎙️ Podcast with Chelsea on The Story Nook
In this episode, we explore everything from gender myths and STEM confidence to parenting, perseverance, and the joy in finally saying yes to yourself.
What Readers Are Saying
Award Highlights
About The Author
Michelle Schreiner is a cognitive psychologist, storyteller, and mom of adventurous twins. She’s spent her career exploring how we build beliefs—and now she’s on a mission to help kids build the kind that empower them.
Her debut picture book, Charlie and the Funky Monkeys Challenge, was inspired by her family, her research background, and a bold idea: What if confidence could be taught early, with heart and humor? Whether speaking at schools or chatting with readers, Michelle brings science and storytelling together to spark curiosity and courage.
When she’s not writing or sharing her book with young readers, you’ll likely find her at a museum with her family or dreaming up her next creative project (with coffee in hand, of course).