Samurai Spirit

June 1, 2003
Gr 6 Up-Martial-arts devotees will find inspiration in these tales of Japanese samurai warriors and present-day heroes possessing a samurai spirit. In a mix of lore and testimonial, the author offers a history of these men who were taught to be skilled swordsmen with incredible powers of concentration. In one story, Musashi Miyamoto, a legendary samurai from the 1500s, is challenged to a duel by the finest swordsman in the land. Suspense is key to the outcome of most of these tales, and the author gratifies readers each time by building up the odds against survival then delivering a heroic solution derived from wit, patience, strategy, or courage. Fact boxes follow the legends or stories about the author's own journey toward becoming a modern-day samurai. Konzak describes overcoming a fear of sharks, trying to break up a street fight, and being put on the spot to perform tough karate moves before a large crowd. By alternating past and present, he succeeds in drawing the connection between this ancient philosophy and daily life for any adolescent, male or female, interested in martial arts or self-improvement.-Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Copyright 2003 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.