Karate for Kids

July 12, 2004
For aspiring martial artists who don't yet know their sensei from their kohai, Karate for Kids by Robin Rielly explains the basics of this time-honored practice. Following a brief history, Rielly explains the uniform, what to expect at a dojo (karate school), proper behavior and stances. With sometimes complex textual descriptions of knot tying or movements, the guide should nonetheless inform novices. .

February 1, 2005
Gr 4-8 -This text is clearly written in a conversational style, and the logically organized chapters include information on the history of karate, the uniform, the dojo, the structure of a class, and practicing stances. The book is enhanced with watercolor-and-ink line drawings that show children of both sexes engaged in the sport and with boxes that include "Words to Know," "Safety Tips," etc. Rielly also offers ways to spot schools and instructors who "may be more interested in business than true karate." This well-designed title should attract both practitioners and browsers." -Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ"

Copyright 2005 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2004
Gr. 5-8. Although it's impossible to learn something as complex as karate through a book, this attractive volume will serve as a backup for kids interested in the activity or already in karate class. Rielly begins with a history of karate before going on to information about the uniform, including the meaning of the belt colors, the rules and etiquette of the dojo, and the interaction between student and teacher. The actual stances are clearly portrayed in watercolor-and-ink artwork that features both boys and girls in a number of stances and practicing thrusts and kicks. The book ends with advice for advancing in karate. A small note on the copyright pages advises readers to check with a doctor before proceeding with martial-arts training. There is also mention in the text that karate is to protect oneself, not cause harm, but more could have been made of that point. Boxes throughout offer definitions and training tips. Browsers as well as students will like this volume.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2004, American Library Association.)

January 1, 2005
This introduction to karate is accessible, agreeably colloquial, well organized, unusually detailed ("arrive...about ten to fifteen minutes before the class is supposed to start"), and thorough, covering everything from the history of karate to the uniform to the various kicks and blocks to what to expect in class. The color diagrams (which feature both girls and boys) are clear and helpful.

(Copyright 2005 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)