Step into a world where the spirit of martial arts leaps off the page and screen.
A realm where every tale of discipline, courage, and self-discovery can spark your own inner warrior.
Our local Illinois Prairie District Public Library branches are proud to offer an inspiring collection of martial arts books and DVDs available for immediate checkout, with no need to wait for interlibrary loans.
From the classic influence of The Karate Kid to the high-octane excitement of the Mortal Kombat movies and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, these selections remind us that martial arts culture extends far beyond the dojo.
In this blog post, you’ll find a curated preview of titles that have personally influenced and inspired me and our school, ranging from fiction and nonfiction works to exciting DVDs that capture the art, philosophy, and enduring allure of martial arts.
Some of the links on the library’s website even give you a Google preview of the book.
While the library’s catalog includes even more titles under keywords like “Karate,” “Martial arts,” “Tai chi,” “Tae kwon do,” and “judo,” I’ve chosen a few exceptional gems that resonate with both longtime enthusiasts and those just beginning their journey.
Remember, martial arts is not just about the hours spent training on the floor.
It also flourishes in the quiet moments of study and reflection away from the class, fostering a deeper understanding of both the art and oneself.
So, whether you’re searching for motivation or looking to expand your knowledge, this special collection is an invitation to explore the timeless legacy of martial arts right here at our local branches.
Martial Arts Fiction Books
Singlets and Secrets by Joe Chianakas (2023)
Summary: Fourteen-year-old Aiden Rothe’s life is full of secrets, and his sexuality is only the tip of the iceberg. While his high school wrestling team views gay and strong as mutually exclusive, Aiden is determined to prove them wrong. Locked out of the wrestling scene, Aiden finds an unlikely mentor in his English teacher, Lloyd Samuels, who introduces him to karate. Once word gets around, there’s an exciting new challenge on campus–the championship wrestling team against a bunch of outsiders and underdogs. It’s the ultimate battle between the cool kids and the rebels.
The Karate Class Mystery by Elizabeth Levy (1996)
Summary: When someone takes Justin’s karate belt, his friends in Invisible Inc. try to determine a motive as they investigate the mystery.
Kiki Kicks by Jane Yollen (2023)
Summary: At her first karate lesson, a young girl named Kiki regains her confidence and strength after being bullied at school.
The Three Ninja Pigs by Corey Rosen Schwartz (2012)
Summary: In this twist on “The Three Little Pigs,” Pig One and Two neglect their ninja school martial arts training and are no match for the wolf, but Pig Three’s practice and dedication saves the day. Includes glossary of Japanese martial arts terms.
Ninja Red Riding Hood by Corey Rosen Schwartz (2014)
Summary: In this twist on “Little Red Riding Hood,” a certain wolf trains to be a ninja in order to catch his prey, but he is not the only one mastering a martial art.
Tae Kwon Do Clash by Jake Maddox (2017)
Summary: Fifteen-year-old Ben’s mother would like him to follow his best friend, Tanner, and join Chief Master Lisa Kleisch’s tae kwon do studio, but Ben is loyal to his long-time instructor, Mr. Ronson; besides he really does not like what he sees of Lisa Kleisch’s joyless technique–and when Tanner admits that he hates it at the new dojang, Ben is more determined than ever to prove that he can win with Mr. Ronson.
Martial Arts Non-Fiction Books
Martial Arts by Clive Gifford (2010)
Summary: An introduction to martial arts, including techniques, rules, and the training regimen of professional athletes in the sport.
The Young Martial Arts Enthusiast by David Mitchell (1997)
Summary: A how-to manual for children who want to learn the martial arts.
Waxing On: The Karate Kid And Me by Ralph Macchio (2022)
Summary: A fun-filled memoir by the Karate Kid and Cobra Kai actor that’s equal parts nostalgia and contemporary relevance, based on both the classic movies and his current show, which is Netflix’s #1 hit and gaining legions of new fans from every generation.
Sensei Adam’s Feedback: I read this a few years ago in the midst of watching Cobra Kai. Highly recommend!
Would You Dare Be An MMA Fighter? by Robert C. Kennedy (2017)
Summary: Mixed martial arts is one of the fastest-growing sports, and includes karate, jiu-jitsu, boxing, kickboxing, grappling, wrestling, judo, and other combat sports. MMA fighters, combating opponents in a cage with nowhere to escape, have truly impressive skills! Riveted readers will be on the edge of their seats as they learn what it takes to enter the ring of an MMA bout. Action-packed photographs and fun fact boxes add to the excitement of this electrifying sport
Tai Chi, Health For Life: How And Why It Works For Health, Stress Relief, And Longevity by Bruce Frantzis (2006)
Summary: Bruce Frantzis’ comprehensive guide reveals why tai chi is effective at helping millions improve their health, relieve stress and reverse the effects of aging, and helps advanced students upgrade their practice and beginners choose the appropriate style and teacher.
Sensei Adam’s Feedback: I haven’t read this book, but I’ve enjoyed his work.
Tae Kwon Do For Kids by Keith D. Yates (1998)
Summary: Introduces the basics of Tae kwon do, including warm-ups, stances, hand strikes, kicks, and sparring drills.
How To Improve At Judo by Ashley Martin (2009)
Summary: Specially designed to show you how to master sports and get maximum enjoyment from them. Using a combination of easy-to-follow text, step-by-step photography, and diagrams, difficult skills are made easy, and participating in sports becomes even more fun.
Martial Arts DVDs
The Karate Kid
Summary: A handyman/martial arts master agrees to teach a bullied boy karate and shows him that there is more to the martial art than fighting.
Sensei Adam’s Feedback: The Karate Kid inspired my first instructor, and Cobra Kai continues to inspire me. The Karate Kid’s influence is deep within our program!
The Art Of Self-Defense
Summary: After a roving motorcycle gang attacks him on the street, timid bookkeeper Casey joins a neighborhood karate studio to learn how to protect himself. Under the watchful eye of a charismatic instructor, Sensei, and hardcore brown belt Anna, Casey gains a newfound sense of confidence. But when he attends Sensei’s mysterious night classes, he discovers a sinister world of brutality and hyper-masculinity, presenting a journey that places him squarely in the sights of his enigmatic new mentor.
Bruce Lee The Invincible
Summary: Cheung Li Kung is a martial arts student who was banished to Malaysia because he had turned against his teacher. Once there, he sets up a casino to steal wages from the miners and kidnaps a store owner’s daughter. Only the invincible techniques of Bruce Lee can stop Cheung’s evil use of Kung Fu
Mortal Kombat
Summary: MMA fighter Cole Young, accustomed to taking a beating for money, is unaware of his heritage but is shaken to the core when a stranger shows up with the same unique birthmark, and a deadly assassin shows up moments later. In order to protect his family — and the fate of the earth — Cole and his companions must travel across the world and into other dimensions to discover their unique magical abilities and defeat Outworld’s monstrous champions in fights which will end only in… Fatality.
The Man With The Iron Fists
Summary: On the hunt for a fabled treasure of gold, a band of warriors, assassins, and a rogue British soldier descend upon a village in feudal China, where a humble blacksmith looks to defend himself and his fellow villagers.
