Product Description

In this high-drama action novel, four members of the elite Black Belt Club set off on a daring adventure to save the world from an evil force that can only be stopped if they use their martial arts skills and karate-spirit powers to work together. Full of high-kicks, blocks, and intelligent problem-solving, here is a new series sure to pack a punch.

This series is heavily illustrated by comic book artist Bernard Chang, best known for his work for DC and Marvel Comics, including issues of Superman, Spider-Man, X-Men, and Daredevil.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #357224 in Books
• Published on: 2007-05-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 176 pages

From School Library Journal
Grade 3-6–This is a notable but flawed attempt at combining text and comics. Max, a young black belt, is invited to join the Black Belt Club, a secret team of young karate students. He lacks confidence in his abilities, particularly when compared to the other three members of the team. Despite his insecurity, he joins them on a journey to a mystical land where they must rescue the world-sustaining Tree of Life. Its trunk holds seven wheels of power, which are stolen by the villainous Master Mundi. Along the way, the young people overcome many obstacles, bicker among themselves, and tap into their inner resources. Every page includes black-and-white cartoons or comic-book panels with dialogue balloons. Some readers may be able to ride the story out on the strength of its action sequences, but this disjointed tale will leave others confused. There are also several instances where plot points appear lost in the transition between words and images. In addition, the depiction of the multiracial team walks a thin line between inclusion and tokenism. In particular, the Native-American character is little more than a stereotype. To the book's credit, the positive, nonviolent aspects of karate are encouraged throughout, but the lack of a glossary is unfortunate. Try Jon Scieszka's "The Time Warp Trio" or Joanna Cole's "Magic School Bus" chapter books for more coherent, illustrated action/information series.–Douglas P. Davey, Halton Hills Public Libraries, Ontario, Canada
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Customer Reviews

Great for Early or Emergent Readers
This is a great book for early or emergent readers because the graphics offer a break from having too much uninterrupted text and the plot line, while not overly complex, is exciting, interesting, and positive. Also, the text is not filled with the dull, simplistic, short sentenced 'he said' and 'she said' format of some other early/emergent reader chapter books, such as the Magic Treehouse series. Finally, if your child is into karate, this book nicely reinforces the ideas of discipline, self esteem, and achievement that a good dojo and sensei really offer to children.

My 7 year old aspiring Black Belt is really enjoying this book
We started the book with me reading him one chapter each night at bedtime. For the last few days he has been 'sneakily' reading a couple chapters ahead of where we are, he can't wait for each chapter.

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Chang Ma Din