Books About Karate

The Best Karate Books for Kids

Looking for our other guide?

Explore our editor-reviewed guide to Martial Arts Books, featuring 14 favorites and recommendations by age.

Looking for excellent children's books about karate? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

#40 in Series

Series

Series

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Karate

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 9–13 · 2019

Maybe He Just Likes You

By Barbara Dee

A girl faces unwanted attention at school and learns to stand up for herself.

304 pages· 46,516 words· Est. 5 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 8,581 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Seventh-grader Mila is confused when friendly gestures from classmates turn uncomfortable. As unwanted attention escalates, she questions what it means to be respected. Finding strength in karate, Mila learns to assert herself and discovers her voice. Can she navigate the complexities of middle school and stand up for what's right?

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2014

Ninja Red Riding Hood

By Corey Rosen Schwartz, Dan Santat (Illustrator) · Fairy Tale Ninja Trilogy series

A wolf tries to eat Little Red Riding Hood but she has a surprise for him.

32 pages· 555 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

5.5/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 2,432 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In a world where even fairy tales aren't safe from ninja skills, Wolf struggles to satisfy his hunger. After training at the dojo, he targets a seemingly easy meal: a little girl and her granny. But Little Red Riding Hood isn't your average target. With her own ninja prowess, she stands ready to defend her family. Will Wolf's new moves be enough, or will Little Red's skills turn the tables? Dive into this action-packed twist on a classic tale and discover if everyone can find their happy ending.

Sale price

$759

Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 2010

The Karate Mouse

By Geronimo Stilton · Book #40 in the Geronimo Stilton series

A mouse is forced to participate in a karate tournament.

108 pages· 7,414 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 4,205 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Geronimo Stilton finds himself unexpectedly competing in the World Karate Championships, thanks to Bruce Hyena and his athletic cousin, Piccolo Tao. With only a week to train, Geronimo must face his fears and transform into a karate champion. Will he rise to the challenge or crumble under pressure? Dive into this whirlwind adventure to find out if Geronimo can kick his way to victory!

Sale price

$474

Chapter Book · Ages 7–9 · 2006

Karate Katie

By Nancy E. Krulik, John & Wendy (Illustrator) · Katie Kazoo Switcheroo series

A magical twist threatens a karate match victory. Can the unexpected competitor prevail?

80 pages· 8,140 words· Est. 1.5 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 290 ratings

$4.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Katie swaps bodies with her friend Kevin just before his crucial karate match. As the magic wind complicates things, she must navigate the competition in his place. Can she secure victory, or will Kevin's dreams be dashed? Discover the unexpected challenges and surprises in this thrilling tale of friendship and magic.

Sale price

$958

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2004

Karate Hour

By Carol Nevius, Bill Thomson (Illustrator) · Sports Hour series

Karate class begins; students learn discipline, respect, and self-esteem through graceful moves and colored belts.

32 pages· 207 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud

3.8/5 Goodreads · 160 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In karate class, students gather to master blocks, kicks, and stances, each move a step in their journey of self-discovery. As they don their colored belts, they recite a pact of respect and nonviolence, embodying the core values of this ancient art. With each lesson, they not only learn the origins of karate but also build self-esteem and discipline. Will they rise through the ranks, embracing the true spirit of karate? Discover the balance between defense and grace in this rhythmic exploration of martial arts.

Sale price

$474

Chapter Book · Ages 7–9 · 1996

Angels Don't Know Karate

By Debbie Dadey, Marcia Thornton Jones, Marcia T. Jones, John Steven Gurney (Illustrator) · The Adventures of the Bailey School Kids series

A mysterious woman arrives, saving lives. Is she a guardian angel?

80 pages· 5,791 words· Est. 1 hour read

3.8/5 Goodreads · 885 ratings

$4.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: In Bailey City, Melody believes in guardian angels, but her friends are skeptical. When a mysterious woman appears, always just in time to save the day, Melody claims she saw her wings. Is this newcomer on a miraculous mission, or is there another explanation? As the kids investigate, they must decide if they believe in the extraordinary. Discover the truth behind the mysterious rescuer and whether Bailey City is truly touched by an angelic presence.

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2020

Karate Kids

By Holly Sterling

Can Maya, a white belt, prove her karate skills to Sensei with focus and determination?

32 pages

4.5/7 Bookroo·3.8/5 Goodreads · 128 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Maya, a white belt in karate, faces the challenge of proving her skills in her Saturday class. With focus, balance, and the support of her friends, she aims to impress Sensei. Will her determination be enough to showcase her potential? Join Maya in this uplifting journey of martial arts, where every punch and block counts. Discover the joy and discipline of karate as Maya learns to master her moves and gain confidence. Can she rise to the occasion and show what she's truly capable of?

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8

Kiki Kicks

By Jane Yolen, Ariel Stemple, John Ledda (Illustrator)

A bullied girl finds strength and confidence through karate.

40 pages· 559 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Kiki feels small against school bullies, but her first karate lesson promises change. Inspired by her mother's practice, she seeks strength and steadiness. Will martial arts empower her to stand tall? Discover how Kiki transforms fear into confidence, reclaiming her power in a world that often feels overwhelming. This lyrical tale of self-empowerment explores the journey from vulnerability to resilience, inviting readers to witness Kiki's path to inner peace and strength.

Picture Book

Ninja Worrier

By Abby Klein · Book #9 in the Ready, Freddy! 2nd Grade series

Can karate skills help a boy face a school bully?

9,002 words

4.9/5 Goodreads · 8 ratings

Paperback

Summary: Freddy dreams of becoming a ninja after seeing his friend Josh's karate moves. As he starts classes, Freddy wonders if his new skills will give him the courage to confront Max, the second-grade bully. Will Freddy's training be enough to stand up for himself and his friends, or will he need more than just ninja moves to overcome his fears?

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1248

Chapter Book · Ages 5–8

Lost and Frown!: An Early Reader Graphic Novel

By Jenny Alvarado · Pencil & Eraser series

Lost school supplies must navigate the world to return to their owner before karate class ends.

80 pages· 885 words· Est. 14 min read

3.9/5 Goodreads · 88 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

Hardcover

Summary: Pencil and Eraser, best friend school supplies, tumble out of Stella's backpack on their way to karate class. Stranded on the sidewalk, they must use their ninja skills to find the dojo and return before class ends. With obstacles and distractions at every turn, can they stay focused and make it back in time, or will they be lost outside the lines forever? Join this hilarious adventure to see if these two can navigate the big world and find their way home.

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