They also get natural magic resistance, starting a level 14. In addition, they get some natural thieving abilities (hide, move silently, find (but not disarm) traps). Pump up hide and move silently, sneak in behind an opponent, then use stunning blow (or quivering palm) like you would a backstab. This does a great job of "tenderizing" opponents.
However, they are rather weak at earlier levels. Buy bracers of defense of whatever AC you can afford (you can always give them to one of your mages later). Also, there's a decent weapon that only monks can use for sale in the Copper Coronet. These should tide you over for a while (until you get good enough that you don't need much equipment).
Throne of Bhaal SPOILER
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If you have Throne of Bhaal, monks get all of the "feats" (special fighting abilities) that warriors get, including ones like whirlwind attack (10 attacks the following round!). They truly become juggernauts after 20th level!
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Death is only the beginning...