Samurai Spirit: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Life [Paperback]

Burt Konzak (Author)

Book Description

Age Level: 11 and up | Grade Level: 6 and up

Named an Honor Title by the Storytelling World Awards in the category of “Storytelling Anthologies"

The samurai prepared themselves for battle through physical practice, and the study of the arts. These ancient stories that inspired warriors so long ago have special significance for today’s teens who face battles of their own: battles against bullies; battles with self-doubt and lack of confidence; and battles with the injustices they see around them. Burt Konzak has taught martial arts for over 20 years and has used these stories, drawn from sources including the Hagakuri, the Book of Five Rings, and other Japanese classics, to help young people gain emotional and mental strength.

Whether or not readers are interested in the martial arts, they will find centuries of wisdom in this fine collection.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 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 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From the Inside Flap

Named an Honor Title by the Storytelling World Awards in the category of "Storytelling Anthologies"

The samurai prepared themselves for battle through physical practice, and the study of the arts. These ancient stories that inspired warriors so long ago have special significance for today's teens who face battles of their own: battles against bullies; battles with self-doubt and lack of confidence; and battles with the injustices they see around them. Burt Konzak has taught martial arts for over 20 years and has used these stories, drawn from sources including the Hagakuri, the Book of Five Rings, and other Japanese classics, to help young people gain emotional and mental strength.

Whether or not readers are interested in the martial arts, they will find centuries of wisdom in this fine collection.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 11 and up
  
• Paperback: 144 pages
• Publisher: Tundra Books (October 8, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0887766110
• ISBN-13: 978-0887766114
• Product Dimensions: 5.1 x 0.4 x 7.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 5.3 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,261,014 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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