Monk's irrational fears in order of severity from most to least are as follows: germs, needles, milk, death, snakes, mushrooms, heights, crowds, elevators.
The book Mrs. St. Claire is reading to the kids is written by Julie Breckman. This is the name of the daughter of Andy Breckman, the show's creator.
Jason Gray-Stanford, who plays Lt. Disher, originally auditioned for the role of Deputy Mayor Shelden Burger.
In this pilot, the character played by Jason Gray-Stanford is listed as "Lt. Deacon." Throughout the rest of the show's run, his name is Lt. Randy Disher.
Gail O'Grady, the actress playing Miranda St. Claire, appears again in "Monk" as a different character later in the series. She plays "Lovely Rita" in S6:E5, "Mr. Monk and the Birds and the Bees".