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‘There’s a Monkey on Your Shoulder’ by award-winning speaker and author, Tana Macpherson-Smith is a bold, emotionally intelligent novel written for teenagers, and every adult who once was one. 

“Written by a distinguished professional, this is a brilliant, unpatronising book for trouble teens and all who love and work with them. It could change lives.” Dr Valerie Sinason PHD, retired child psychotherapist and President, Institute of Psychotherapy and Disability

There’s a Monkey on Your Shoulder 🐒

Part gripping survival story, part guide to understanding the voice in your head, ‘There’s a Monkey on Your Shoulder’ explores what happens when a group of teens are forced to face their inner ‘monkeys’, the living symbols of the beliefs, doubts and fears that have shaped their lives.

Through the challenges faced by the teenagers this novel gently unpacks the roots of emotional overwhelm and demystifies the inner critic. It offers a step-by-step toolkit for anyone looking to unlock creativity, reclaim their confidence and move forward with courage and genuine self-belief.

Whether you’re a young person navigating the challenges of life, a parent supporting one, or simply someone still shaped by your own younger self – this story is for you.

Book Testimonials

“It is honestly one of the best books I have ever read!  It made me really change the way I see life and that I need to tell my monkey to stop living my life for me!”

L-R Butler (12 yrs)

“This book isn’t just a thought-provoking story – it’s a conversation starter.”

Sue Atkins, award-wining author and parenting expert

“Both heart wrenching and humorous – it is a difficult subject woven into a story of hope.”

Helen Preston, Counsellor

“This book is truly a game-changer. The writing is engaging and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact long after you finish reading.”

Rhi

“This book is amazing. I finished it on the day I got it. Thank you for witing such a book; that myself, and other teens can relate to.”

Adrian W (14 yrs)

Book Topics

Meet Your Monkey

Discover how your inner critic—your “monkey mind”—shapes your self-doubt and daily thoughts.

Spotting the Chatter

Learn to catch negative self-talk in the moment before it takes hold.

Mindful Listening

Use simple mindfulness exercises to create space between you and your thoughts.

Question Everything

Challenge limiting beliefs with evidence-based, Socratic self-inquiry.

Where Comes the Voice?

Understand why your brain clings to old fears and how to break the cycle.

Cultivating Creativity & Flow

Clear mental noise to unlock playful creativity and deep focus.

Daily Monkey-Mind Toolkit

Keep your critic in check with quick morning, midday and evening practices.

Putting It All Together

Build your personalised “Exit Plan” to sustain lasting change.

🎥 Book Launch

Experience the warmth, community, and celebration from the official book launch event by watching the video on this section.

📚 Who Is It For?

  • Parents navigating emotional conversations with their children
  • Educators seeking to support young people’s emotional wellbeing
  • Adults on their own personal development journey
  • Anyone who wants to better understand the unspoken thoughts that shape behaviour
Background Graphics

“There’s a Monkey on Your Shoulder”

“There’s a Monkey on Your Shoulder”

There’s a Monkey on Your Shoulder is Tana’s powerful new book helping readers understand, befriend, and quiet their inner critic — with heart, humour, and a little monkey magic.