Karate Made Simple: Karate Origins and Expansion

Written in collaboration with the Japan Karate Federation, this is the first title in the "Karate Made Simple" series (other titles include Punching, Kicking, and Blocking and Karate Origins and Expansion.) Using the dojo (karate studio) as the opening focus, Nakashima introduces young readers to karate as a contemporary martial arts practice with ancient origins. Rei, or bowing, in its standing and sitting forms, and the kneeling position of seiza make up the opening chapters, demonstrating how a close look at something as obvious as an opening and closing gesture can be complex and filled with meaning. The gi or uniform is similarly examined in terms of its rules and history, the significance and origins of ranks and belts, as well as the intricacies of wearing, folding and making the gi. Protective gear and the aspects of the dojo conclude the book. The author provides a glimpse of the spread of karate across the globe and identifies some aspects of karate competition. An index, a glossary, and a brief resource list of three web sites comprise the backmatter. "Did you know?" sidebars provide a range of information on topics from the ordering of right and left in sitting and standing to facts about the Nippon Budokan, Japan's biggest dojo. Reviewer: Uma Krishnaswami; Ages 8 to 12.