Kung Fu

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6These series titles focus on the development of three popular fighting styles and include basic how-to information. They are full of interesting bits of trivia, e.g., the practice of breaking boards can be traced to the fact that ancient warriors wore armor made of wood shingling (Tae Kwon Do). The background detail and descriptions of sparing techniques may help youngsters who are trying to choose a martial art. However, Dixon's artwork in all three volumes is rather amateurish and not particularly attractive, and the instruction is covered equally well in other sources. It's the historical overview of the kicks and punches, throws and blocks that is the main appeal here.Cathryn A. Camper, Minneapolis Public Library