Book Review

Title: Waking Dragons
Author: Goran Powell

ISBN:  
Date of Review: 3rd May 2007 Reviewer: Simon Buck (7kyu)
Opinion: This brilliant book by Goran Powell (4th Dan), charts his history in martial arts from youngster doing Judo to 3rd Dan Karate expert taking the 30 man Kumite test. For those unfamiliar with the Japanese, Kumite essentially means sparring. Goran had to fight 30 opponents, each for one minute. Not only that, but these were full contact no holes barred fights against progressively tougher opponents.

Goran is a writer by trade so the book is well-written. Although mainly chronological, at certain points Goran jumps forward to record his views on others attempts to take the 30 man kumite test. This is riveting reading, bone-crunching punches and kicks are described in vivid detail, and you are left in no doubt about the difficulty of the test.

The other great moments in the book were when Goran discovered something totally new or different to do with his training, Karate or style. There are 3 or 4 of these revelations throughout the book and the experienced martial artist will probably have experienced the same sort of thing themselves.

For anybody who has studied martial arts this is essential reading."
   
Date of Review: 15th November 2006 Reviewer: Malcolm Bates (Sandan)
Opinion: This was an excellent book to read. It charted a man's journey through the hoops and hurdles or karate study and made the reader feel like he was part of the process.

A great book to read when you think your karate training is getting tough and one that most of us older guys will relate to in some way.