What is Karate?

It seems that whenever we try to find something on karate for our collections the only titles available are "how to's." The two-volume What is Karate? series, by contrast, explores the history and evolution of the different styles of karate and the philosophies of the founders of the various schools. Shrouded in secrecy for centuries, this ancient form of unarmed combat was taught as a series of choreographed movements with cryptic names, and was only made available to the general public in 1901, when it began to appear in school curriculums. Using photographs, film clips and computer animation, the programs offers viewers an in-depth, fascinating look into this martial art as it really is, not as Hollywood gimmickry. The first volume covers the history and development of karate, while the second offers a closer look at the ancient schools; both volumes can be purchased and viewed independently. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (L. Stevens)