Customer Reviews:
Excellent TV Series...and Book!.......2005-02-08
When this TV show was originally being aired on ABC back in the early 1970's I was a teenager and never watched it.
But several years later in the late '70's while at college in California, reruns were being shown on some station out there in L.A. - and I became hooked.
The flashback scenes with Masters Po and Kan are FANTASTIC, teach insightful lessons of life to live by, and really are the essence of the show.
Pilato's "Kung-Fu Book of Caine" is an absolutely tremendous supplement to the series, and with all the interesting background information he provides, one can appreciate the show even more.
Yesterday I was even inspired to purchase the recently-released DVD of the first two seasons of "Kung-Fu" here on Amazon [...]
Kung Fu -- The Book of Caine.......2001-02-21
What a terrific way to re-live and reminisce about the great old days of the original Kung Fu TV show. The book gives a very interesting behind-the-scenes look at the creative and talented writers and actors who worked on the show, and follows with an episode-by-episode synopsis. The book, like the TV show, leaves you wanting more, so I can only hope that more will become available soon. In the meantime, the Book of Caine is a nice addition to any fan's collection.
A MUST FOR "KUNG FU" FANS!.......2000-04-16
This book has it all: a show by show guide, photographs, and more pertaining to the best television program ever. I have even more love towards the show after reading this book!
Book Description
Shaolin Kungfu has been considered by many as the best martial art in the world. But Kungfu is just one of the three treasures of Shaolin, the other two being Qigong and Zen. For the first time ever, this inspiring book, written by an internationally acclaimed Shaolin Grandmaster, brings to you the crystallization of Shaolin wisdom and practice spanning many centuries. Its scope and depth is amazing, touching on, among many other things, poetry and enlightenment.
Customer Reviews:
Go to CMAOD dot com to learn real Shaolin and other martial arts styles for cheap -- avoid imposter teachers!.......2007-08-26
Shaolin kung fu is without question beautiful and if you wish to learn complete kung fu forms for only seven ninety nine per video disc, or slightly more for English-Chinese DVDs, visit the website that begins with the first letters of "Chinese Martial Arts On Disc": CMAOD dot com. "CMAOD dot com" offers every kind of kung fu form and style you would ever wish to learn from beginning to end: traditional hong gar, almost all styles of Shaolin, Dim Mak, traditional hong fist, animal styles, many fighting self-defense videos, wudang, er mei, and dozens of other complete systems of kung fu, including weapons, forms, and self-defense. You name it, you can learn it, without having to spend thousands of dollars to learn from phony kung fu teachers. Many Americans don't know that this website allows you to buy the best instructional VCDs and DVDs available. Visit the "wushu for youth" section of CMAOD dot com and you can buy the wushu fundamentals VCDs or DVDs that will teach you from the beginning stages. Visit the Shaolin section and you will find more fundamental Shaolin VCds or DVDs taught by two allegedly real Shaolin monks called Shi De Juan and Shi De Jian. I don't know how real their monkhood is, but they are gifted martial artists, and you can learn complete forms in many styles of martial arts. You've got to see this website to believe it. The owner Bill is a great guy, and offers great discounts on his website. You've got to visit CMAOD dot com to believe it. There are literally thousands of kung fu artists here that are "at least" as good as the so-called real Shaolin monks in China and America, and many are far far better. With a few bucks, they can be your teacher. If you can't find a good teacher in person, here's your only chance to learn real Shaolin or other styles for almost nothing. Ever wish you could find "the secret kung fu manual" to teach you various styles? Well, here it is in video disc or DVD form. Buy these VCDs or DVDs and enjoy learning great martial arts from top Chinese masters without worrying about being fooled by phony kung fu masters. Finally, every American has access to real kung fu learning at his or her own pace! I have written three international cover stories for Inside Kung Fu and Wushu Kung Fu magazines (now Kung Fu magazine) and can vouch that CMAOD dot com is the best source for learning authentic Shaolin and other kung fu step-by-step without being bamboozled by and kowtowing to phony practitioners of fake kung fu styles or schools. Learn at your own pace, according to your own interests from the best Chinese masters and grandmasters for less than eight dollars for VCDs.
So good I bought a copy for my SiFu.......2006-08-13
As a student of Shaolin, I believe this book to be an excellant study guide.I told my SiFu about and even bought him a copy.
Great book!.......2006-07-14
This is an excellent book, not only for the beginer, but also for those who have been studying Shaolin for many years! It is very informative about the history, phylosophy, and tecnique of Shaolin kung fu. It's a great book for doing cross-refrence on different training and also has many inspiring stories in it. I'd recomend this book to ANYONE interested in Shaolin!
Comprehensive.......2005-08-04
The book was indeed true to its title. The program it lays out covers everything!
BEST BOOK EVER.......2005-08-04
I love Matial Art So I love the best book ever that explain the best Martial Art of the World SHAOLIN because it gives you enlightenment the higher thing one can get (if you get enlightenet)Well I just must said that these is the only book I read about Martial art right now and I hope some day in the future some one or ones whrite some book about the history and phylosofi of all the martial arts of the World! Right now I have found only one book in English> (...)
namned> The SPRING and AUTUMN
of Chinese Martial Arts: 5000 Years
by Kang Gewu, Professor, Chinese Wushu Research Institute
That I maybe buy in the future! Have a good Day too all peoples !
Average customer rating:
- 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' meets 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon'
- Grandmother Loved the Books
|
Daughter of Light #1 (Kung Fu Princess)
Pamela Walker
Manufacturer: Grosset & Dunlap
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 Action & Adventure
| Literature
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Literature
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Fiction
| Martial Arts
| Sports
| Sports & Activities
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Adventure & Thrillers
| Literature & Fiction
| Teens
| Subjects
| Books
Fiction
| School & Sports
| Teens
| Subjects
| Books
Girls in Sports
| School & Sports
| Teens
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
Look Inside Art Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
Look Inside Children's Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
Look Inside Teen Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
General
| Art
| Arts & Photography
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Action & Adventure
| Literature
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Literature
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Martial Arts
| Sports
| Sports & Activities
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Adventure & Thrillers
| Literature & Fiction
| Teens
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Fiction
| School & Sports
| Teens
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Girls in Sports
| School & Sports
| Teens
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
All 4-for-3 Deals
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Similar Items:
-
In Gold and Jade #2 (Kung Fu Princess)
-
Veil of Secrets #3 (Kung Fu Princess)
-
Five Ancestors #1: Tiger (5 Ancestors)
-
Five Ancestors #2: Monkey (5 Ancestors)
-
Five Ancestors #3: Snake (5 Ancestors)
ASIN: 044844139X |
Book Description
The mysterious coins unleash a strange string of events in Cassidy's life. First she dreams she's destined to defeat evil spirits with the help of an unknown ally. Next, she's plagued by a series of dangerous mishaps. Finally she's attacked by a vicious snake. Cassidy is caught in a terrifying web of confusion until the adorable James Tang explains that she's being haunted by demon ghosts. Could he be the ally her dream foretold? One thing is for sure: Cassidy's world is about to be changed forever!
Customer Reviews:
'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' meets 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon'.......2007-02-14
It's September 6. While it may seem like an ordinary day for most people, it is anything but ordinary for eighth grader, Cassidy Chen. For today is her fourteenth-birthday. While Cassidy looks no different, she can feel the differences building up in her body - screaming to be released. Suddenly, she feels more powerful, yet, at the same time, more tired than she's ever felt before. She bruises at the slightest touch, and has fallen victim to lifelike dreams featuring demons, and strange creatures that she has never seen before in her life. Cassidy can't seem to put her finger on what is going on around her, yet she feels that her symptoms are being caused by the gift she was given by a mysterious stranger. The gift of five real gold coins, each depicting a different piece of Chinese mythology on their surface, placed softly in a box resembling a small treasure chest. The coins were made out to someone named Mingmei Chen, yet they have come into Cassidy's possession by a man who stepped out of the Seattle fog and drizzle, then quickly disappeared. Cassidy knows that the coins are possessed by some ancestral force, but she finds it difficult to get rid of them. Attempting to discover their true origins, she speaks to her Wing Chun instructor, Master Lau, but still receives no enlightenment regarding the powerful gift. It is only once Cassidy begins to form a friendship with a new, mysterious boy named James Tang, when she starts to realize the power she is in possession of. Suddenly, she realizes that this is no ordinary gift, but a present that will change her life forever, and make her a warrior.
In the fashion of the hit TV show BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER, Pamela Walker has called upon Chinese Mythology to bring the tale of a chosen one to light, and help her to fulfill her destiny as a warrior and martial arts master. Cassidy Chen is a refreshing character in the world of tween/teen fiction. Her curiosity creates a wonderful addition to the tale, as it brings her through both Asian and Irish mythology, giving readers the opportunity to learn more about both cultures in an in-depth, yet extremely creative and interesting fashion; while the action scenes that appear quite often are both well-written and engrossing. What really makes DAUGHTER OF LIGHT stand out, however, is the remarkable relationship Cassidy shares with her parents. So many books on the market nowadays depict children and teenagers constantly at war with their parents, but Walker has woven a friendly family atmosphere that illustrates the wonderful bond a daughter can have with her parents. This tightly-knit relationship really provides a lovely backdrop to the other dimensions of the story. BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER meets CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON.
Erika Sorocco
Freelance Reviewer
Grandmother Loved the Books.......2007-01-11
The book was purchased for my grandson that is taking martial arts and I thought I will read a few lines to see what interest 13 year olds. After about 5 pages I could not quit reading. It was so interesting that I had to keep going. I did not want the book to end but I knew there were 2 others in the series, so I kept reading. As soon as it was finished, I started the #2 book and was equally enthralled and the same with # 3. So as you might have guessed, I kept the books and bought my grandson his own set. I wish you would tell the author, Ms. Walker to start a sequel or another series. I will be looking for her books in the future.
Customer Reviews:
Better than most.......2007-03-20
Yang Jwing Ming has been publishing high quality martial arts books and videos for more than twenty years now, and this early volume, definitely fits into that category as well.
It gives a great overview of chang quan, long fist, and as usual with Yangs books, the explanations are clear, concise and satisfying. The pictures are all clear and easy to interpret.
I don't think that one can learn martial arts from books, but they can be a good help. Especially when it comes to the understanding of philosophy, history and indeed technique.
Highly recommended
A Literal Bible on Shaolin Long Fist.......2007-03-07
This book is so incredibly detailed, and so amazingly well written that I would consider moving to Boston to train under this great man myself. The only book I have EVER found in my life that is so powerfully efficient. Don't skip this up, this is not the average marketing product. He has considered every aspect that the reader could possibly need to know to learn the first few forms in this art.
pretty good for a book.......2005-06-22
This book is certainly an interesting read, and provides very good information about the history of chinese martial arts. It does a beautiful job of describing various useful excersises that are great for any martial artist.
On the other hand, it is important that the reader realizes the need for a flesh and blood instructor when learning Kung Fu. When it comes to the Shaolin Long Fist form itself, the book serves as a wonderful source for reference and a helpful tool but only when used to augment the teachings of a real Shi Fu.
Captures the spirit of Kung Fu.......2005-03-13
Dr. Yang, to me, has always been a great source of information on the Chinese arts, and his expertise is displayed here. The book starts out with a pretty thorough history on the Chinese arts (considering the book was only supposed to highlight one style), as well as explaining different traditions found in kung-fu's philosophy and training. The big point Dr. Yang tries to get across is that morality comes first, then technique. Starting with Chapter Two, he begins to cover the physical aspect of Wu Su (meaning "martial arts", as "kung fu" translates directly as "work-time"), starting with warmups and stretches that are benificial for any athelete; I do at least some of these before every workout myself. He then explains the various stances (mostly kept low, for power) and different movements that can be done from them. While I'm sure that all of these stances and methods of movement are authentically Long Fist, I must question the effectiveness of some of them when facing a criminal in the street or a competitor in a cage. Many of the defensive movements require one to jump, which may not be a realistic option, depending on the environment. Still, the book's title is "Shaoling Long Fist", not "Street Defense and Cagefighting"; I'll go on the premise that the techniques don't HAVE to be effective, just authentic. Dr. Yang does mention in this section that Wu Su's emphasis is on defense, with the idea that once one learns to defend oneself, attacking should be that much easier. He then moves on to the different hand formations, usually just several variations of fists, claws, and "beaks", and then covers the basic theories and techniques of defensive hand movements. Then it's on to striking. The striking techniques presented here are shown primarily against a heavy bag, and are given a fair bit of detail. The variety presented leads me to believe that there's at least one technique for a given situation. After that is a seemingly misplaced chapter on building power, speed, and stability, with the emphasis on strengthening the arms/wrist and creating a stable base in the legs; no weights are used. Next is a brief section on different pressure points to target. On the plus side, the points are given with their Chinese name, their English location, the accupuncture meridian involved, and which attacks are most useful against it; on the negative side, the "effect" of these points tends to rely more on accupuncture theory than proven cases (example: the bottom of the foot is listed as a "death" point). Next is a brief introduction to forms (one of the better ones I've read) before Dr. Yang actually begins to demostrate five preset sequences and their applications. While he DOES state which direction one is supposed to be facing in each of his photos, the photos themselves have no real reference point, which takes away somewhat. However, I *am* grateful that he at least has decided to include the form's applications. The book ends with a section on "fighting forms", two-man drills used to train specific techniques (a plus) and strategies for free fighting, emphasising the Chinese mentality approach to combat. In conclusion, this book is very good for those who's emphasis is on form and "martial spirit", especially in the Chinese arts, and while it's not so great for MMA or self-defense, some of the principles and most of the training sequences can certainly help. For the subject matter, and in-depth introduction into a traditional Chinese art, it's a very good book.
Not what it's cracked up to be.......2002-08-05
I've always been a fan of kung fu and have always found it to be an effective fighting art. But some of the stuff in this book is quite questionable. The pictures are practically useless as all that is shown are flicky kicks that could never harm a tough opponent and useless punches that prolly woldn't have great efeect, that is, even if they hit. The stances shown are laughable. How easy it is to get taken down in one of those stances is ludicrous and the power behind your stances will leave something to be desired. Every stance that is built for speed lacks power and every stance built for power lacks speed. You'll find some useful information in the book and some interesting background, but if it's realistic training you want, I suggest you look elsewhere.
Product Description
This book contains 25 San Soo Forms that were taught by Grand Master Jimmy H. Woo to Master Ron Gatewood and then carefully recorded by Master Barbara J. Wallace. These are the author's original hand-written forms that explain the transitional movements, the hand positions, the types of strikes, and the foot locations for each movement. All 26 form movements are presented with a written description, line drawing, and foot location diagram. The author makes no claim to being an artist but the line drawings clearly demonstrate the movement and positioning of the hands, feet, and body.
Barbara Wallace has studied Kung Fu San Soo with Master Gatewood since 1978. She diligently recorded all lessons and forms she was taught and these forms are no exception. Learning these forms will improve your balance and fluidity and make you a better fighter because you move properly and with purpose. The San Soo Forms are an integral portion of the Art.
Customer Reviews:
WOW!!! This great information for KFSS Practitioners Worldwide.......2006-08-09
You will need experience in Kung Fu San Soo to understand these forms but I wholeheartedly support Barbara in her fine work. She has an amazing knowledge of this art and she has done a fine job of breaking down forms used in our schools worldwide.
Enjoy!
Average customer rating:
- THE SIGN of QIN
- enough with the stupid adjectives!
- FABULOUS READ!!
- How about an original idea?
- Richly engaging "Outlaws"
|
Outlaws of Moonshadow Marsh: Sign of the Qin - Book #1 (Outlaws of Moonshadow Marsh)
L.g. Bass
Manufacturer: Hyperion
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Action & Adventure
| Literature
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Magic
| Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror
| Literature
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Spine-Chilling Horror
| Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror
| Literature
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Literature
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Fiction
| Siblings
| Family Life
| People & Places
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Fiction
| Martial Arts
| Sports
| Sports & Activities
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Ages 9-12
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Twins
| Issues
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
Look Inside Children's Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
General
| Art
| Arts & Photography
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Ages 9-12
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Twins
| Issues
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Action & Adventure
| Literature
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Literature
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Magic
| Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror
| Literature
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Spine-Chilling Horror
| Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror
| Literature
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Fiction
| Siblings
| Family Life
| People & Places
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Martial Arts
| Sports
| Sports & Activities
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
All 4-for-3 Deals
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Similar Items:
-
Foundling (Monster Blood Tattoo, Book 1)
-
Magic or Madness (Magic or Madness Trilogy)
-
If I Have a Wicked Stepmother, Where's My Prince?
-
Looking For Alaska
-
Elsewhere
ASIN: 0786855665 |
Book Description
A volcanic eruption releases a vanguard of demons, sealed away for centuries beneath the earth. Soon after, the Emperor's first son is born, marked with the sign of the Qin-the brand of the outlaw! Could the child be the new Starlord, destined to restore justice to the land? The emperor plots to kill his only heir before the boy can usurp his throne. But the assassin is foiled by a mysterious monk whose magical tattoos foretell the future, and a trickster monkey who longs for immortality. A host of warring guardians must ultimately unite to help the Starlord unlock the kung fu secrets of the Twelve Scrolls and save the earth from destruction. But first, the Prince must fulfill his destiny, and join the twin leaders of the legendary outlaws of Moonshadow Marsh in a war against the Lord of the Dead. The first in a trilogy, Sign of the Qin draws upon Chinese myth and legend in a tour de force of classic storytelling.
Customer Reviews:
THE SIGN of QIN.......2007-04-13
by L. G. Bass is a Chinese fantasy that I would recommend to all the fans of Harry Potter.
The story begins when the Emperor's son is born with the sign of the out law on his chek and as the prophesy was written,the Eire to the thrown with the sign of the outlaw will defeat the demons and save the empire. As it turns out Yamu [the lord of the dead] a strong dark foe that will do anything to bring him down and in the meantime the famous out laws White Streak and Black World wind are on the right path to meet the young prince. A monkey with a high bounty has kidnapped the prince, and took him under his wing as his guardian to teach him the ways of Outlaw.
White Streak and Black World wind are twin brothers who are some of the greatest outlaws ever. On their trip they meet a magical monster with the name, the Nakk . The Nakk has a giant squid like body and octopus like tentiquals and the power to transform into other creatures like a jelly fish. As the Nakk tries to sink their ship, White Streak tries fighting it, and came out successful. for wining they got one free wish, and they wished for a deamon dog named Puk. Puk will serve as a guardian for a small boy they train to become an outlaw.
Well that's all I can tell you about my book over all I think it was awesome!!!!!
enough with the stupid adjectives!.......2006-05-28
If you happen to be crazy and came out of the premiere of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon saying "Wow, that would make a GREAT book!" Sign of the Qin is for you. If, however, you are sensitive to clichéd characters, stiff and tedious dialogue, and shameful breaking of the `show, don't tell' law, pass on this incredible waste of paper.
Did you notice how my last sentence contained five adjectives and went on longer than it should have? Well...this kind of pattern riddles Qin. The nearly 400 pages of this first novel could be slimmed down if, well, you took out most of the pointless adjectives and adverbs. I might be picky, but if a typical sentence is `The meeting would require a day's intricate journey along the murky Great River, where a treacherous web of meandering creeks and misty waterways posed a terrible threat to sailors, even those like himself and his twin brother, Black Whirlwind, who knew the territory well enough not to take a dead-end turn' I just can't stand it. I got maybe 140 pages in before my head started to hurt, and I actually started covering the `cruelly's and `encouragingly's with my finger so I could concentrate on the story.
However, that brings me to the plot. It is a fantasy epic set in a dragons-and-demons world that resembles our own, even mentioning Mongolian conquests, the emperor, and obviously drawing on Chinese mythology for the deity characters.
In a nutshell, a cadre of demons led by the Lord of the Dead is loosed on the Earth, and a band of outlaws must cooperate with a young Prince to save the corrupted kingdom from peril.
The story isn't bad, but the way it's told ruins it completely. Since the author relies so much on excessive modifiers, everything feels melodramatic and forced. From the `martial arts scenes' to relationships between characters, everything gives the impression of a bad circus or play; characters don't seem to put their spirits into themselves when they should, and encounters with horrifying demons seem overblown and clumsy.
The author may drone on about a bandit's strong, muscled body barely contained in his tunic, describe his weapons with fervor, give a speech on his bloodthirsty smirk--and then have him get owned by weaklings three times in a row. Logic is literally thrown to the winds; sometimes there is too little description to know what is exactly happening, and gaps of time and space are magically jumped by the main characters.
My last point: the inevitable clichés. In the heat of melodrama, someone's grandmother who is supposed to be dead comes back to life joyfully as if she just fainted, like no one bothered to check her pulse or--look, if I sound like I'm crazy, read the book. It is supposed to be humorous or something, but after every `battle' was won by the good guys I just couldn't help rolling my eyes. There are ways to tell stories without making everything predictable, without coming to `Disney endings' where everything works out. That's the weird part; in some parts of the book there is torture and carnage and a whole village is massacred, and in others it seems the author couldn't bear to let anyone but the main characters get hurt and brings someone inexplicably back to life in an annoyingly pointless way.
All I can say is, the editor at Hyperion should be fired for slacking off. I can't help wondering why this crap got hardcover coverage by Hyperion when thousands of good books are rejected. Even--gasp--Eragon made more sense. There, I said it.
FABULOUS READ!!.......2005-03-12
I chose this book as an optional text for one of my methods courses in college and I loved it!! I am a sci-fi/fantasy fan and the book promised a "Lord of the Rings"ish story. It was like a Chinese version of LOTR with fresh characters that sometimes border on the lines of the Greek gods. Amazing story, can't wait to read the rest of them!
How about an original idea?.......2004-12-18
This is the kind of book that happens when someone attempts to fill in a niche for diversity in order to get published without real respect for the source material or culture.
So here we have the author lifting whole parts from classic Chinese novels like Journey to the West (Monkey) and The Water Margin (aka Outlaws of the Marsh--she couldn't even come up with a different title!)
She then mixes up a bunch of aspects from different Asian cultures together as if they are all one and the same. A common Westerner's mistake.
She should have also done more research on names. No one is going to have the name "Zong" since that's reserved for the Emperor--after he's dead! And like most Westerners who come up with Chinese names, the women all get fanciful names like those taken by women in brothels. Of course when you lift from a notorious book like "The Golden Lotus" this would tend to happen.
The author should have spent more time looking into Chinese culture and legend rather than merely reading a few translated books and watching some kung fu films.
Richly engaging "Outlaws".......2004-11-27
L.G. Bass makes a stunning debut in "Sign of the Qin," the first book of a series drawing on Chinese myth and legend. Taut, lushly written and wonderfully characterized, "Sign" is an enthralling fantasy with plenty of action, mythic monsters, and a dash of romance and destiny.
The emperor is horrified when he sees his newborn son, because the child has the mark of the Qin, a rebel sign, on his cheek. He throws out the child's mother, Silver Lotus, and secretly plots to kill the baby -- especially since the commoners adore him, since they believe he is the new Starlord, who will renounce his noble birth and be their savior. But the Starlord has a nursemaid and rebel allies who will do whatever it takes to keep him safe.
A recent volcanic eruption has let all sorts of demons loose on the land, and the evil Lord of the Dead Yamu is also plotting against the Starlord's life, calling out vile shapeshifters and evil harpies. To combat him, the lords of heaven send the incorrigible trickster Monkey to take care of the innocent little boy as he comes closer to his rebel allies.
Like a flower, "Sign" has to unfold slowly and carefully. But Bass makes it worth the while, infusing the story with lots of character development and background information. Chinese legends aren't used very often in fantasy, allowing Bass's story to seem entirely fresh and original, complete with sea dragons and conveniently-placed goddesses.
Bass's writing is suitably detailed and solemn, with lots of details on swords, filthy streets and jewelry. The descriptions of things like moving tattoos or statues coming to life are astounding. But there's humor as well; the immortality-hungry Monkey provides most of it, but there is also the putrid demon kappa being defeated with good manners, or the elaborate funeral held for a woman who had only fainted. And most stunning of all are the action scenes, usually quite bloody, gritty and very fast-paced.
At first glance, Prince Zong (or "little Starlord") seems like a pretty typical Child of Destiny -- he walks and talks within days of being born, and has immense wisdom. But Bass makes him a little naive and very sweet. The twin rebels (who are also sons of a sea-dragon) White Streak and Black Whirlwind are also well-drawn. Even the villains like Yamu and the snivelling Emperor are well-written.
Bass provides a slow-moving but rich fantasy in "Sign of the Qin," and the finale promises more adventures to come. Fantastical, funny and grim, this is a definite must-read.
Average customer rating:
|
How To Draw Kung Fu Comics Volume 1
ComicsKey , and
Various
Manufacturer: ComicsOne
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Instructional & How-To
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
Drawing
| Instructional & How-To
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
Illustration
| Commercial
| Graphic Design
| Design & Decorative Arts
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Drawing
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
Cartooning
| Comics & Graphic Novels
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Martial Arts
| Individual Sports
| Sports
| Subjects
| Books
Look Inside Sports Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
Similar Items:
-
Alan Moore's Writing For Comics Volume 1
-
Drawing Cutting Edge Anatomy: The Ultimate Reference for Comic Book Artists
ASIN: 1588993949 |
Book Description
Ever wonder how the great kung fu comic creators like Tony Wong, Andy Seto, and Wing Shing Ma work their magic? Well, now you can learn how it's done. Volume 1 of How to Draw Kung Fu Comics: Compiling Characters intuitively runs down the finer point of aesthetic character development - from how to design and draw character heads, on to completing your character creations. You'll soon be on your way to producing your original kung fu comic.
Average customer rating:
- More adventures of Little Vampire and Michael
- Actually this one is more like "Michael Does Kung Fu!"
- I would not recommend it.
- nothing quite like it!
|
Little Vampire Does Kung Fu!
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Comics & Graphic Novels
| Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror
| Literature
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Literature
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Fiction
| Friendship
| Social Situations
| People & Places
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Fiction
| Martial Arts
| Sports
| Sports & Activities
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Ages 9-12
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Monsters
| Obsessions
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Bullies
| Issues
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Comic Strips
| Comics & Graphic Novels
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Comics & Graphic Novels
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Graphic Novels
| Comics & Graphic Novels
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
Similar Items:
-
Little Vampire Goes to School
-
Vampire Loves
-
The Rabbi's Cat
-
Zenith: The Barbarian Princess (Dungeon)
-
Klezmer: Tales of the Wild East
ASIN: 0689857691 |
Book Description
Jeffrey the jerk is a bully and everyone knows it.
Little Vampire isn't about to stand around and watch him pick on his best friend, Michael.
There's only one thing to do:
Travel to the highest mountain and seek kung fu lessons from the master...
Customer Reviews:
More adventures of Little Vampire and Michael.......2007-07-18
Little Vampire Does Kung Fu is a sequel to the fantastic Little Vampire Goes to School, and it continues the story of Little Vampire and his friend, Michael. Here, Michael's having some trouble with some kids at school, who are beating him up. Little Vampire takes him to see a rabbi who lives in a painting in his house, who also happens to be a kung fu master. On the rabbi's instruction, Michael braves a multitude of attacking monkeys and a steep climb to a hill-top temple to ultimately fight a Siamese dragon. Now he himself is skilled at kung fu, and he looks forward to standing up for himself against the main bully at school. But there is a small problem: the monsters in Little Vampire's entourage ate the bully. A bit of grim madness ensues as Michael and Little Vampire talk the monster into regurgitating him and then sew him back together, with the goal of resurrecting him. This goes not very well until some magicians are called in, when things get really interesting. Fortunately, the Captain of the Dead gets involved to fix everything.
I have to say that the book is not as good as Little Vampire Goes to School, but is still very enjoyable. We see mostly the same hilarious characters from the first book, and there are more life lessons--in this case, especially about the use of violence to resolve problems. Again, goofiness reigns supreme, with absurd situations proposed and resolved in amusing ways. The art is colorful and handles the sometimes grim subject matter without glorifying or minimizing violence. As with the first Little Vampire book, I would recommend having a look at the book before buying it for a child in your life, as the topics might be a bit morbid for your preference.
Actually this one is more like "Michael Does Kung Fu!".......2005-04-25
"Little Vampire Does Kung Fu!" ("Petit Vampire fait du Kung-Fu!") begins not with the Little Vampire but his young human friend, Michael, who tells his grandfather how he was picked on, de-pants, and beaten up by the kids at school. Michael's Grandpa tells him he did the right thing by not fighting, but the young boy is not sure. He was humiliated and is so angry that he wants to kill his tormentors. When Michael tells his story again at the Little Vampire's dog Phantomat has a few brutal suggestions as to what should be done to Michael's chief tormentor, Jeffrey. But Little Vampire has a different solution and takes Michael to see Rabbi Solomon, the Kung fu master, who lives in a painting in Little Vampire's house.
You see, in haunted houses you can go in paintings, so they visit Rabbi Solomon who first suggests building a golem to protect Michael. But teaching Kung fu to Michael is the best plan, only the book is lost and Michael has to go and get it. Unfortunately, to get the book he must defeat a Siamese dragon call Lumpini with a nunchaku, which is rather difficult to do if you do not know any martial arts.
Now, at this point you might think you know what is happening in this story, but Joann Sfar likes to toss in a few twists and turns and in this case being a Kung fu master will not allow you to defend yourself from the attack of a bully if all of your monster friends have already eaten the kid. Since Albert Einstein and his science cannot be any help, they need a magician. Fast. So the Captain of the Dead sends them to the Felicity Tree and if you think you have any clue as to how this one is going to end you are going to be surprised.
After reading "Little Vampire Goes to School" I really did think that there was no way the next book in the series could be as great, and "Little Vampire Does Kung Fun!" is indeed not as great as the first one, but that does not mean it is not a first rate tale. The story is certainly as complex and Sfar's imagination is even more impressive this time around. But the story really is "Michael Does Kung Fu," and while the Little Vampire along with his family and friends are certainly involved they are really supporting characters (although the support offered by Marguerite, Claude, and Ophtamol is certainly more than most friends will do for you when confronted by a bully).
As for the lesson being taught here, I am not so sure that there really is a moral to the story as much as I think there is an attendant irony. Michael expresses the anger and frustration many of us felt when being tormented by bullies who added insult to injury by not only beating us up but by being stupid as well. This book, translated by Mark and Alexis Siegel, is intended for young readers ages 10 and up, but it is one of those delightful books that is really too good for kids because they are not going to get all of the humor.
So we need for Simon & Schuster to get the rest of the Little Vampire books translated toute-suite. Next is "Petit vampire et la société protectrice des chiens," and then "Petit vampire et la maison qui avait l'air normale," followed by "Petit vampire et la maison qui avait l'air normale" and "Petit Vampire et les Pères Noël verts." Then we can move on to the first volume of the Grand Vampire series, "Cupidon s'en fout." I can hardly wait.
I would not recommend it........2004-12-07
Ultimately, I think this book attempts to show the futility of fighting in order to resolve disagreements. But it uses rather violent images and notions to deliver this message including: revenge killing, cannibalism, religious mysticism, etc. This book could serve to desensitize young readers to the pain and suffering of others, in the same way that violent
video
games and the gratuitous violence in the
news and
entertainment media are apt to do.
nothing quite like it!.......2003-11-11
Now here's a rare treat... A clever, zany romp in the continuing adventures of Little Vampire. It's an unpredictable, rambling adventure, brimming with inventiveness and full of heart -- and it's a comic book. Kids 6 and up will find lots to delight in, but it's aimed at the 10 and up, who will revel in the wit and exuberant artwork. I'd bet the books in the Little Vampire series become classics in no time. Definitely nothing else like these.
Be sure and get the first book LITTLE VAMPIRE GOES TO SCHOOL if your young reader doesn't have it already. One of the few books he or she will rank higher than most video games.
Customer Reviews:
Choy Li Fut Kung Fu by Doc Fai Wong.......2006-05-11
This book gives a great overview of Choy Li Fut Kung Fu! It talks about the lineage and history which I find fascinating. The book also covers ALL the basics which is the true art of Choy Li Fut. As a practitioner I use this as a reference guide on a frequent basis. The book is very elusive and I find a little bit more hidden in these pages each time I pick it up. Laid out before you are the true secrets of the art. To most they don't know what they are reading so they simply glaze over the words. Those are the ones who truly miss out.
A must have for Plum Blossom practicioners........2005-12-28
As previously mentioned this book is not intended to teach you a whole system. It does not follow the Chan Family lineage as well. However, if you do follow Choy Li Fut it does show you all of the basic movements. Obviously it can not compare to receiving actual training and hands-on instruction, but it is a great reference and an excellent guide. Authentic martial arts are passed down from generations with hands on training and with written manuals and scripts. This book is a manual/script! I agree that the photos aren't the best, but look at when this was originally published. It has obviously sold plenty of copies to still be in print.
Lots of photos, little substance.......2003-10-20
This is one of the few books I've been able to find on CLF, and found it incredably lacking. If it weren't for two forms presented inside the book, it would be little more than a pamphlet. The reader gets an introduction into Choy Li Fut, but not enough to really learn anything. Liniage is presented, weapons used are named, and you get to see a couple of poorly-shot photos of finnished techniques. I don't really recomend that anyone get this book, unless you want to learn CLF's first two forms and have no teacher.
Lacks detail and explanation.......2002-03-11
This is an OK book on choy li fut gung fu by the grandmaster of this style. Yes, its impossible to become a gung fu master without a teacher, training and effort. However I expected far more from this book than what it delivers. Its so so on basics and concepts but lacks critical details on how to do footwork, punches and kicks as well as no form or technique instruction on the huge arsenal of choy li fut weapons such as the plum blosson spear and kwan do. For a better gung fu book, check out Bruce Lee's books on JKD as well as the Hung Gar Kung Fu books by Bucksam Kong. The photos in this Choy Li Fut book are difficult at best to follow. I just hope that grandmaster Doc Fai-Wong rewrites and updates this book to make it worthy.
Not for people people who practice the Chans family styleCLF.......2001-03-16
I think this book gives a good introduction to CLF and it's basic s but if you as me study the chans family style, I suggest you don't buy the book! I bought it and found out that many of the movements we practice are not the same as the ones in this book! This can confuse both you and your sifu! For example the basic movement Ng Lun Ma that we practice is not the same as the one in the book at all.
Book Description
Kim Possible and her best friend, Ron Stoppable, find new meaning in the phrase 'gone bananas' when they discover the truth about world-famous scholar Lord Monty Fiske. The nobleman's obsession with something called Monkey Kung Fu has led him to spend the family fortune on costly surgery. Now he's Lord Monkey Fist, a chimp with attitude. Can Kim and Ron stop him? Or will the whole world end up in his mutant monkey grasp?
Books:
- The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: The Black Dossier
- The Long Hard Road Out of Hell
- The Media Handbook: A Complete Guide to Advertising Media Selection, Planning, Research, and Buying (Volume in Lea's Communication Series)
- The Sibley Guide to Birds
- The Traveler's Gift: Seven Decisions that Determine Personal Success
- The Witch Hunter's Handbook: The doctrines and methodology of the Templars of Sigmar (Warhammer S.)
- The Women Who Raised Me: A Memoir
- The Women Who Raised Me: A Memoir
- Time Warp Trio: South Pole or Bust (an Egg) (I Can Read Book 3)
- Too Much Tuscan Sun: Confessions of a Chianti Tour Guide (Insiders' Guides)
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Finding Your Voice: How to Put Personality in Your Writing
- You: On a Diet: The Owner's Manual for Waist Management
- The Hal Leonard Pocket Music Dictionary
- The Budget Kit: The Common Cents Money Management Workbook
- The Prize: The Epic Quest for Oil, Money and Power
- What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Children's Vaccinations
- Trail Atlas of Michigan: Nature, Mountain Biking, Hiking Cross Country Skiing
- Accounting Ch. 12-26
- The Morning After: Making Corporate Mergers Work After the Deal is Sealed
- The White Bone: A Novel
Spirit of Shaolin
Kung Fu - The Complete Third Season
Kung Fu - The Complete First Three Seasons
Kung Fu - The Complete Second Season
Kung Fu - The Complete First Season
![Shaolin Long Fist Kung Fu = [Shao Lin ChìAng ChìUan] (Unique Literary Books of the World)](http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/218FDZcbZHL.jpg)
