The Monkey Who Asked
for Misery
MRS. KERCHER
8 TH GIFTED
Cultural History
The folktale originated in Haiti, one of
the world’s poorest nations. Haiti was
colonized by Europeans, and in the
1800s, the island was a wealthy
agricultural colony. Native forests
were cut down, farmland was
overworked, and many animals were
hunted until they became extinct. It is
not surprising that Papa God say that
Monkey is in an “awful condition.”
Story Background
A woman drops the sugar cane syrup she is bringing to market, and Monkey hears her complain
to Papa God about the Misery he has given her. Thinking the woman must be speaking about
the delicious spilled syrup, Monkey finds Papa God and asks him for much more Misery. Papa
God gives Monkey a sack to open at a place where there are no trees. When Monkey opens the
sack, huge dogs leap out and chase him. Papa God sends a tree for Monkey so that Monkey can
escape the dogs and think about the lesson he has learned.
As you read, ask yourself what mistake Monkey makes and what lessons he learns. How might
Monkey’s story help readers?
Written Response
1. In your own words, tell what happens to the woman at the beginning of the story.
2. What clues in the story show that Monkey is an extraordinary animal?
3. What mistake does Monkey make about “misery” at the beginning of the story?
4. What does this mistake and Monkey’s other actions show about his character?
5. Why does Papa God decide to give Monkey the bag with dogs inside?
6. How can you apply what you have learned from this folktale to your own life? Explain what
you would do or not do.