🍌 Why I Wrote "Monkey Bananas"
If you’ve read Super Foods for Super Kids, you might remember the line: “Bananas look like a smile, and bananas make you smile.” That simple idea stuck with me—and it turns out bananas do a lot more than just brighten your mood. They’re shaped like a hand (that’s why a bunch is called a “hand of bananas”), and they’ve even been linked to easing arthritis pain.
But here’s the funny part: when I started researching bananas, I realized I didn’t know much about them at all. For example, I thought bananas grew on trees. Nope! They grow on a very tall plant. Bananas are full of surprises, and the more I learned, the more I wanted to share their story with kids.
🌏 Bananas Then and Now
Growing up in South Korea, bananas were rare treasures. I still remember going to the outdoor market, Shijang, with my mom when I was in second grade. I begged for a banana, and because they were so expensive, she bought just one finger. We took it home and cut it into five equal pieces—one for mom, dad, and us three girls. That tiny slice tasted like pure magic.
Fast forward to today, and bananas are everywhere. Costco sells a whole hand for just $2. Kids grab them without realizing how precious they once were. That contrast made me appreciate bananas even more.
🍨 Bananas in My Vegan Kitchen
After switching to a plant-based diet, bananas became a staple in my kitchen. They’re the secret to “nice cream”—a vegan ice cream made from frozen bananas blended with fruit, plant milk, and a splash of vanilla. They’re also the star of hearty banana breads and smoothies. Bananas aren’t just convenient; they’re versatile, comforting, and downright fun.
🐒 The Birth of Monkey Bananas
With all this banana goodness swirling in my mind, I knew I had to write about them. But instead of a nutrition lecture, I wanted something playful and adventurous. That’s how Monkey Bananas came to life—a short jungle adventure where a curious little monkey searches for a super fruit. Along the way, he asks different jungle animals for hints, and (spoiler alert) discovers that the super fruit was a banana all along.
The book blends a cute story with banana nutrition facts and even a few recipes. It’s a way to connect kids with healthy eating through fun characters and relatable adventures.
💡 Takeaway for Parents
Bananas are kid-friendly fuel. They’re sweet, portable, and packed with nutrients.
Stories make food memorable. Kids remember “bananas look like a smile” far more than a nutrition chart.
Bananas are versatile. From smoothies to nice cream, they’re an easy win for busy parents.
✨ Final Thought
Writing Monkey Bananas was pure joy. It let me share childhood memories, surprising banana facts, and a playful story that makes kids giggle while they learn. My hope is that families see bananas not just as a snack, but as a super fruit worth celebrating.
Happy eating—and may your next banana bring a smile!
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