CHIP AND THE KARATE KICK

The newest entry in the Good Sports series features a Bruce Lee wannabe (here named “Striper Mee” and recast, in Meisel’s all-animal illustrations, as a tiger clad in a karate gi) who finds out what it really takes to advance in his chosen martial art. Small in size but a huge fan of TV star Mee, long-eared Chip O’Hare is ready to punch, kick, and jab his way to a quick yellow belt—but his new sensei, Mr. Leo, gently keeps telling him that he’s not yet ready to advance. Chip doesn’t understand, until he discovers that he can outface playground tough Bernie Bullie without fighting. That’s what Mr. Leo’s been waiting for him to learn. Rockwell and Meisel offer some dojo etiquette and karate terminology along with the Lesson; younger readers with dreams of breaking bones rather than boards will benefit from this understated study in developing a better attitude. (Picture book. 6-8)