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32 pp.
| Kar-Ben
| May, 2022
|
TradeISBN 978-1-7284-2430-9$17.99
|
PaperISBN 978-1-7284-2797-3$7.99
(2)
K-3
Illustrated by
Martina Peluso.
Rena "Rusty" Glickman Kanokogi (1935–2009) grew up in a cramped and noisy Coney Island apartment where "not even Shabbat brought quiet." Brash and strong, she was considered "unladylike" and a judo class was the first place she felt she fit in. As her skills developed, however, she faced barriers as a woman: e.g., she won a YMCA championship while disguised as a man but had her medal rescinded when an official saw through the ruse. The straightforward text focuses on her obsession with the sport (she practiced on subway platforms and took down "unsuspecting trash cans") and on her persistence and advocacy, including being the first woman to study at Japan's Kodokan and helping to establish women's judo as an Olympic event. Illustration layouts vary, with many of the more dynamic ones being vignettes of Glickman practicing judo moves. An author's note gives a bit more background, especially about Glickman's later life. A welcome addition to the growing canon of picture-book biographies amplifying lesser-known women, with added sports appeal.
(3)
4-6
SportsZone: Inside Martial Arts series.
Each book in this series presents the history, rules, vocabulary, techniques, and key personalities of its sport. While similarities among these sports exist, the authors emphasize how distinct purposes and procedures make each a unique form of martial arts. Aficionados will appreciate the colorful action photographs and the engaging play-by-play depictions of moves that accompany the readable texts. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers the following SportsZone: Inside Martial Arts titles: Tae Kwon Do, Kung Fu,Karate, Aikido, Judo, and Mixed Martial Arts.
32 pp.
| Sea to Sea
| September, 2010
|
LibraryISBN 978-1-59771-274-3$28.50
(4)
4-6
Combat Sports series.
Each volume begins with a brief explanation of the combat sport then delves into its history. Discussion of the sport's popularity and competitive appeal, overviews of its famous participants, and "Top 10 Moves" are all explored. The spreads are busy with action photos, quotes, and sidebars, but the high-interest topics may attract reluctant readers. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Combat Sports titles: Karate, Kickboxing, Wrestling, Boxing, Judo, and Tae Kwon Do.
32 pp.
| Gareth
| September, 2004
|
LibraryISBN 0-8368-4192-1$24.67
(3)
4-6
Martial Arts series.
These basic introductions touch on each martial art's history, philosophical underpinnings, and required clothing and equipment. The clear texts and sharp photos provide step-by-step instructions for various stances, kicks, throws, and blocking moves. Although the books can't substitute for in-person lessons, they're a close second, and they may lure novices. Lists of websites and association addresses are included. Glos., ind. Review covers these Martial Arts titles: Tae Kwon Do, Judo, Karate, and Kickboxing.
(4)
4-6
Making of a Champion series.
These encompassing books explore the details, demands, and determination necessary in the making of an elite athlete. Chapters cover such topics as the sport's history, training techniques, diet and nutrition, and competitions (drug use is briefly mentioned). Photos of a variety of elite athletes--from past to present--help illustrate the text. The congested design is a drawback. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers these Making of a Champion titles: A World-Class Sprinter, A World-Class Judo Champion, A World-Class Mountain Biker, A World-Class Swimmer, A World-Class Marathon Runner, and A World-Class Gymnast.