I wrote a book about teaching martial arts and run a kid's karate class so I believe that I can speak with authority when I say that Rielly's book is well-rounded, easy to read and very child appropriate. It covers all the basics including a brief history of karate, why students might be interest in studying this martial art, an explanation of the karate uniform, description of the dojo (practice hall), discussion of etiquette, overview of warm up routines, explanation of basic techniques, and description of advancement testing practices. If your child is thinking about taking karate this book can help set his/her expectations and increase his/her chance of success. There is a small caveat about the appropriate use of karate in the front but I wish she'd spent a little more time on that particular aspect. New practitioners, especially younger ones, have a tendency to get into trouble for inappropriately trying out their skills on classmates at school. The sensei (teacher) should cover this but it is always good to know ahead of time. All in all, this book is a great overview for kids.

Lawrence Kane
Author of 'The Way of Kata' and 'Martial Arts Instruction'

Knowledgeably written by Robin L. Rielly (an expert martial artist with decades of experience, a seventh-degree black belt in Shotokan karate as well as a second-degree black belt from Shin Kage Ryu jujutsu), Karate For Kids is a simple but complete introduction to the fitness, self-defense, movements, philosophies, and etiquette of karate for young people. Down-to-earth illustrated instructions and guidelines for proper decorum as well as appropriate physical form make Karate For Kids a "must-read" for children enrolled in a karate course -- or who are considering joining a karate class.