Sidekicks Starring Chuck Norris This 1993 movie about "A Dreamer and A Champion" gets highest ratings for its entertaining and educational  value.

Secondhand Lions Starring Michael Caine, Robert Duvall and Haley Joel Osment This comedic and touching family film follows the adventures of a shy young boy (Haley Joel Osment) who is sent to spend the summer with his eccentric uncles (Michael Caine, Robert Duvall). At first shocked by his uncles' unconventional behavior that includes ordering African lions through the mail, the boy soon becomes enthralled with unraveling the mystery that has followed the uncles for years. Hearing tales of their exotic adventures involving kidnapped princesses, Arabian sheiks and lost treasures, not only brings him closer to his uncles but also teaches him what it means to believe in something ... whether it's true or not.

The Karate Kid Starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita This drama is about a new kid (Ralph Macchio) in town, targeted by karate-wielding bullies until he gets a new mentor: the handyman (Pat Morita) from his apartment building, who teaches him self-confidence and fighting skills. The young man develops sympathy for the painful memories of his teacher, and of course there is a girl on board (Elisabeth Shue) that the klutzy Macchio dreams of winning.

Kenpo 301 - Short Form and Long Form 3  by Lee Wedlake This is Mr. Wedlake's second book on the Kenpo forms. It follows his previous book on the beginner and intermediate forms. In this book, Mr. Wedlake gives a move by move description  of how to do each particular technique, as well as the direction that they face, and the transitions that take you from one tech to the other. This alone makes it a must have for any Kenpo student (or teacher) who needs a refresher on this material.  Along with this important information, Mr. Wedlake gives some insight as to why some of the particular techniques were chosen from the system for these forms. Like Ed Parker used to do, he doesn't give you all the reasons, but instead gives you just enough information to go searching (and discovering) for yourself. Although it is a short read ( I read it in one sitting ), I believe the books' depth will have you re-reading it many times over. Mr. Wedlake's passion for Kenpo comes through page after page. It was inspiring to me to read the introduction, which was written by Mr. White, describing Mr. Wedlake as a true student of Kenpo, who even with all his experience, is still very much a student. I can hardly wait for his book on Form 4! - JP
The Russian System Guidebook by Vladimir Vasiliev This book was highly recommended to me by Mr. Al McLuckie. A great introduction to the Russian art of Systema, a revolutionary martial art, whose training is based solely on natural movement, with no preset techniques or forms. This book is based on the training methods used by the Russian special forces. Some of these methods have already been integrated into our curriculum; one of the reasons why Mr. Wedlake has chosen to call what he teaches Progressive Kenpo Systems. Topics such as training tips, philosophy, and a section on health, are covered. This book opened my eyes to a different approach to all these topics, and I hope to someday meet Mr. Vasiliev. You can order this book at www.russianmartialart.com. - JP
The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate by Gichin Funakoshi   This book was lent to me by Jamie Robb. A small book, to be sure, but not a book to be read in one sitting. Each chapter covers a principle that not only relates to Karate training, but to everyday life. As I read each chapter, it was refreshing to read some of the things that my own instructor has been teaching me for years. The insight from each chapter , or principle, provided food for thought for days, and made me want to re-read some of them.  Not a book on Karate technique, per se, but rather a look into the spiritual requirements that every serious student should adopt. Principles such as " Karate begins and ends with respect" and "constantly be mindful, diligent and resourceful " help illustrate the true purpose behind Funakoshi's training. From the insert: Master Funakoshi's approach stresses spiritual considerations and mental agility over brute strength and technique. Practitioners should not rely on technique alone - striking, kicking, blocking - but must nurture the spiritual aspects of their practice as well. Attend to yourself and the rest will follow, was the message he set for posterity over 60 years ago.  Highly recommended! - Jim Peacock

Verbal Judo: The Gentle Art of Persuasion by George J. Thomson, Ph.D. This book was written by a martial artist/police officer who learned a lot of things on the job the hard way. While realizing he had the physical skill to handle an assailant, Mr. Thompson realized he lacked the verbal skills necessary for effective police work. In the book he describes several encounters that didn't work by just relying on his physical skills, and more importantly, the effective methods that he uses (and teaches) now, that he learned from more experienced colleagues. Mr. Thompson provides effective methods of dealing with difficult people, empowering you to argue (or discuss) differences with people, while allowing both parties to save face and understand each other. I highly recommend this book to anyone in a management position, or anyone who has to work with the public. I would even go so far as to say it could help people with their personal relationships, too. An extremely valuable resource. - Jim Peacock