FABRIC velvet Year of the Monkey: 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016 Monkeys like to enjoy themselves, but also have a thirst for knowledge. Often they like to read and collect information. Although on the outside they appear very sociable, friendly, and cheerful, monkeys can be selfish when making decisions. They are always able to overcome obstacles and triumph. This is because they learn from their mistakes and listen to those who critique them.