Barbara Washburn McCoy owns McCoy’s Action Karate (M.A.K) in Auburn, MA. In this role, Ms. McCoy provides an environment to learn martial arts and life skills through experiential learning for her students, their families, and her team. Ms. McCoy is a lifelong student (academically and physically), so she can continue offering the best of herself to those she empowers to live their best lives.
Have you ever met your hero and it was everything you hoped it would be? Or did it leave you underwhelmed when it came to fruition? Reading Waxing On: The Karate Kid and Me by Ralph Macchio allows the reader to meet the individual behind the “Karate Kid.” Reading it, you can see why both the actor and character are a hero to many. With maturity and honesty, the heartfelt narrative presents an observation of the author as a critical player in the Karate Kid franchise. As mentioned more than once in the text, the line blurs between who Macchio and LaRusso are as character and actor.
Published in 2022, Mr. Macchio takes the reader on a journey of self-exploration and Hollywood magic. He manages to brilliantly intertwine both aspects within each sentence.
New Generation, New Perspectives
As Cobra Kai takes flight, the next generation gets the privilege of experiencing the phenomenon that began back in 1984. This book bridges the generational gap. It also answers critical questions that viewers of the original films might need to realize they had. One question that would definitely benefit from the author’s perspective is “what is the place for Mr. Macchio’s place in the martial arts?” Specifically, regarding in the conversation of mind, body, and spirit within the martial arts industry. The heart and soul of the author could be identified with each word. Each sentence was written intentionally and not for any kind of validation. Though the beginning starts slow, the smooth transitions of chapters and train of thought keep the reader guessing which direction the narrative will go next.
Conclusion
There were no tears as the reader quickly devoured the book. There were, however, many silent giggles. Yet, the concepts of balance and growth written with such insight and sincerity were life-giving and humbly embraced. It was exceptionally well written and provided many excellent reflections between what once was and now is. The weaknesses are far and in between. As this book is not fiction nor written for academics, a reader can choose to explore the more profound components on their own time. However, the wisdom from the small insight regarding the life of an actor, is the right amount of feeding to the quizzical mind. Approaching life with acceptance of life’s other influence is an overarching mindset that Mr. Macchio explores through the ups and downs of the past few decades.
Recommendation
Who would gain from taking this recommendation? Readers who enjoy a memoir and deep dive into another’s consciousness will appreciate this book. Readers who teach martial arts and wonder if what they do changes lives will be empowered by the life of Mr. Macchio as Daniel LaRusso. Fans of the Karate Kid franchise, even if they are not readers, will find great joy in the behind-the-scenes shared within the pages of Waxing On: The Karate Kid and Me. In conclusion, this book is 4.5 out of 5 stars. I am glad I had the opportunity to read it and will now let many of his words claim space in my mind, body, and spirit.
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Barbara Washburn McCoy owns McCoy’s Action Karate (M.A.K) in Auburn, MA. In this role, Ms. McCoy provides an environment to learn martial arts and life skills through experiential learning for her students, their families, and her team. Ms. McCoy is a lifelong student (academically and physically), so she can continue offering the best of herself to those she empowers to live their best lives.
