Lily feels nervous the first time she steps inside Rocky Mountain Judo Club. Everyone else seems to know exactly what to do. The students bow before stepping onto the mats, practice strange new words like ukemi and rei, and move confidently through throws and rolls. Lily is not sure she belongs there at all.
But with help from her new friends Clara, Sam, Henry, and Michael, Lily slowly begins to discover that judo is about much more than throws and belts. It is about friendship, respect, perseverance, and helping each other improve.
As Lily learns how to fall safely, practice new techniques, and believe in herself, the dojo slowly begins to feel like a second home.
Perfect for readers ages 6-9, Little Judokas: Book 1 - Friendship is an illustrated early chapter book that combines authentic judo culture, positive social-emotional learning, humor, and relatable childhood experiences both on and off the mat.