Today, we're heading back into the realm on nonfiction with an upcoming book in the Legendary Warrior series. I haven't taken a peek at any of the other books, yet, but still wanted to give this one a go. It appears that each book centers around a different 'warrior' from history, so it shouldn't matter what order they are read in. I also find the graphic novel idea interesting and am curious to see how it weaves into this. Plus, what type of information will it hold? Because I've known more than a few middle graders, who have dreamed of learning some ninja skills.
The only way to answer all of these questions is to open this book up and take a peek!
LEGENDARY NINJA OF FEUDAL JAPAN
Legendary Warriors Graphics
by Benjamin Harper
Illustrated by Mary Ainza
Capstone Press
Middle Grade Nonfiction / Graphic Novel
48 pages
ages 9 to 11
COMING JANUARY 1st!!!
Silent. Deadly. Unseen. The ninja of ancient Japan were masters of stealth, espionage, and surprise attacks. Trained in the shadows, they specialized in unarmed combat, swordplay, and secrecy. These legendary warriors carried out secret missions for powerful warlords, striking fear into their enemies with their speed and skill. Through dynamic paneled art and gripping text, this action-packed graphic novel uncovers the truth behind the real ninja of feudal Japan. Perfect for history buffs and comic book fans alike.
MY TIDBITS
The year-long training of a ninja comes across with deserved respect as a boy follows his path and learns the necessary skills.
Ninjas aren't so much about impressive fighting skills as they are stealth, and these pages follow the training of a young boy all the way to his first mission. It takes on a bit of a story feel as the boy watches others train, speaks with his master, and does his best to learn each skill. The year-long work is brought across clearly, and these pages show how it begins with fundamentals such as strength, balance, and coordination before concentrating on stealth and, finally, weapons. It's clear that that the training takes years, and the illustrations demonstrate how important determination is as well.
While this often takes on a story atmosphere, it snuggles up to what the daily life of a ninja might have looked like. The various skills come to life, especially in the illustrations. Exact details aren't given, but rather, it concentrates on the general process. At the end of the book, it's explained that there is little to no historical information surrounding these warriors, and much of what we know comes from stories, which were passed down. There are a few more detailed pieces of knowledge at the end of the book as well as a quick glossary.
This is an entertaining and grabbing way for ninja fans to learn a bit more about these warriors.
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