The heartwarming story of Punch, a baby Japanese macaque who became an internet favourite, is now being turned into a book following widespread interest in his journey.
Punch’s journey comes to life
Titled Keep Going, Punch: The Story of a Baby Monkey’s Growth, the book is scheduled to go on sale in Japan on November 26, 2026. It is being published by Gakken in collaboration with Ichikawa City Zoo and Ichishin Holdings.
The 48-page book will follow Punch’s journey from his early days to his eventual integration into the zoo’s Japanese macaque troop. It will feature an illustrated story, accounts from his keepers and photographs selected from more than 10,000 images taken during his growth.
From a difficult beginning to internet fame
Punch was born at Ichikawa City Zoo near Tokyo in July 2025. After his mother stopped caring for him, zoo staff stepped in to raise the young macaque.
During his early months, Punch became particularly attached to a stuffed orangutan toy that provided companionship while he was being cared for by humans. Images and videos of the baby monkey clinging to the toy spread widely online, making his story popular with audiences around the world.
His return to the macaque group was not easy, but Punch eventually began adapting to life alongside other monkeys. His journey from a vulnerable infant to a member of the troop became the central story behind his growing popularity.
The book will also introduce readers to Japanese macaques, their daily lives and the social rules within their groups. Some copies are expected to be provided to school libraries and other institutions in Ichikawa, while part of the proceeds will support the city and its zoo.