My First Karate Class

PreS-K—With "Tiny Tigers" or "Little Dragons" classes available at many karate studios across the U.S., there is a need for a book about the topic for the very young, and Capucilli's title hits that spot. Jensen's photographs feature students, probably aged three to five, all of whom are delightfully expressive and are clearly having fun with the karate moves. The foldout pages are intended to create a full spread. While the organization is not intuitive, younger readers are likely to enjoy the photos, especially of the children moving like animals accompanied by charming illustrations of tails and ears. The style represented in the book is an Okinawan karate system, so some terms and instructions (particularly on how to make a proper block) will not translate well to other styles. Regardless, the images and ideas are sure to encourage young children interested in karate, and to validate young students by showing other kids (both girls and boys, white and African American) using the same techniques they are learning in class.—Alana Joli Abbott, formerly at James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford, CT