All Around Good Habits

Gr 2–5—Though some information is scatted throughout these books, readers expecting to learn about martial arts may be disappointed to find that their focus is on good habits martial arts practitioners may develop, such as concentration and self-discipline. Generalizations abound and the circular arguments turn back on each other repeatedly. For example, Good Habits preaches, "Martial arts can help you get rid of bad habits and start good ones"; "Martial arts can help you make good habits"; and "Martial arts class is one place where you'll learn a lot of good habits." The didactic focus and repetitive text make for slow going, though large colorful photos add some appeal. Fact boxes briefly describe various martial arts, including a few less well-known forms such as Brazilian capoeira and eskrima from the Philippines. There's a commendable focus on inclusiveness; mention is made of Paralympic judo champion Ian Rose.