Best Martial Arts Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2025

A samurai fights for honor and survival in a real-life Game of Thrones.. Stirring narrative nonfiction recounts the rise of Minamoto Yoshitsune from seemingly doomed infant to immortal warrior-hero (and one of the most famous samurai in Japanese history). Acclaimed author Pamela S. Turner delivers all the drama, romance, and tragedy of the original story--with delightfully dry wit and a healthy dose of modern perspective. Gorgeous ink paintings by celebrated graphic-novelist Gareth Hinds complete this irresistible package.

The Danaher Diaries Volume 2 is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. In this book, John Danaher shares his latest musings on learning, teaching, strategy, and mastery, providing readers with new concepts and stories to reflect on. The short, thought-provoking entries can be read anytime, anywhere, making it the perfect companion for your BJJ journey. As a leading mind in the sport, Danaher provides unique insights into topics such as speed vs control, the power of wedges, levers, and fulcrums, and reflections on ADCC 2019. Overall, this book is an excellent addition to any martial artist's library and is sure to inspire and motivate readers to improve their skills.

Gong Sau Wong: A Tribute is a 360-page book that offers readers an exclusive insight into the life and legacy of one of the most respected Wing Chun masters in history, Sifu Wong Shun Leung. Through a series of exclusive conversations with 25 of his direct students, readers can learn about his contributions to Wing Chun, his connection to Bruce Lee, and his fighting capabilities. The book also contains 65-year-old newspaper reports relating to Sifu Wong's fight in Taiwan, making it a fascinating read for martial arts enthusiasts. Overall, Gong Sau Wong: A Tribute is a must-read for anyone interested in the life and legacy of Sifu Wong Shun Leung and the history of Wing Chun.

The Danaher Diaries Volume 3 offers over one hundred musings from the mind of John Danaher, the top coach in the sport of submission grappling, covering the timely to the timeless as he reflects on the current state of jiu-jitsu and its unchanging constants. The book includes Danaher's famous concepts of first contact and strategic engagement, his parable style teachings, and reflections on the evolution of Gordon Ryan, Gary Tonon, and Nick Rodriguez, as well as his real-time reactions to the onset of COVID-19 and New York's shelter in place order. The book is professionally edited and packaged into short, daily readings that are perfect for training at home or as a gift for the quarantined grappler.

This book, titled "SAVATE THE DEADLY OLD BOOTS KICKING ART FROM FRANCE: Historical European Martial Arts," is a comprehensive guide to self-defense techniques. The book aims to improve the technical knowledge and skills of individuals looking to protect themselves. It includes step-by-step instructions with easy-to-follow photo and illustration guides for both classical and modern forms of self-defense. The international edition also includes additional technical content. Overall, this book is a useful resource for individuals interested in martial arts and self-defense, and it is unique in its focus on Savate, a lesser-known martial art.

This book, published by Diasporic Africa Press, tells the story of Capoeira Angola, a martial art that originated from the connection between Africa and the Americas. The book is designed for young readers and includes over 30 illustrations. It explores the history of capoeira and its role in the societies established by Africans who had freed themselves during the Atlantic slave trade. It highlights the skill, technique, and intelligence that capoeira emphasizes over brute force. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for teens and young adults interested in martial arts and African history.

The Tattoo of Death is an interactive adventure book that takes readers on a thrilling martial arts journey in Los Angeles. In this book, readers are forced to join a notorious gang, the Red Flowers, and must make decisions that will ultimately determine their fate. This book is part of the Choose Your Own Adventure series and is perfect for readers between the ages of 9 and 12. With its nonlinear narrative and game theory, it should appeal to kids of all ages. The book is well-written and engaging, making it a great addition to any child's library.

Black Belt Women: Lessons on Perseverance is a collection of inspiring stories by women who have earned the coveted status of black belt. But it’s not just about their achievement; it’s about their journey and how they continue to thrive in and outside the dojang. The martial arts are not just about physical strength, but also about developing indomitable spirit and a way of life that serves the mind, body, and soul. These women share their powerful and authentic stories to inspire readers to be the best possible version of themselves. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking motivation and inspiration to persevere through life’s challenges.

This children's martial arts book, published by Rosen Publishing Group, presents a biography of Jean-Claude Van Damme, the well-known actor and martial arts master. It features action photographs and a comprehensive listing of his films. The book is an excellent resource for young readers interested in martial arts and action movies. It provides an engaging and informative overview of Van Damme's life and career, and the photographs add an exciting visual element. Overall, this book is a great addition to any young reader's collection and provides a fascinating insight into the world of martial arts and Hollywood movies.

This book, titled Martial Arts for People With Disabilities, is a comprehensive guide on how individuals with disabilities can participate in martial arts. Written by Chris McNab, the book covers various forms of martial arts and provides information on the challenges and issues that may arise when selecting a program. The book emphasizes how martial arts can strengthen the mind, body, and character of individuals with disabilities. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to participate in martial arts, regardless of their physical abilities.