The third season of Cobra Kai—a sequel series to the iconic 1984 movie The Karate Kid—was released on Netflix on January 1 , 2021. If you've already binged the new season and can't wait for season four, or you haven't even begun the show and want to know what its all about, here are some books, movies, and music related to some of its themes.

Many of these books are available at home as e-books. If you are a New York State resident and don't yet have a NYPL card, you can apply for a digital card here.

The Karate Kid (DVD)

This is where it all began. If you've never seen The Karate Kid or need a refresher, watching the original movie will introduce you to the characters and explain the story behind "Cobra Kai."

 

 

 

 

The Karate Kid by Robert Mark Kamen

A family-friendly retelling of The Karate Kid story that introduces kids of all ages to Daniel and Mr. Miyagi by the movie creator Robert Mark Kamen. 

 

 

 

 

The Little Book of Bonsia by Jonas Dupuich

This book will teach you all about bonsai trees and how to care for them just like Mr. Miyagi.

 

 

 

 

Picture History of the 20th Century: The 1980s by Richard Tames

Even if you aren't still living in the 1980s like Johnny Lawrence, this pictorial history of the "Decade of Excess" will take you back to a time when extremes in fashion, music, and entertainment were all the rage.

 

 

 

Karate Basics by Robin Rielly

This book will teach you how to get started in Karate, including entering tournaments. You will be a fixture at the All Valley Under 18 Tournament in no time!

 

 

 

 

The Vietnam War: An Intimate History by Geoffrey C. Ward

Get an in-depth history of the Vietnam War, where John Kreese learns Karate and find out what "No Mercy" means. 

 

 

 

My Dad Had That Car: A Nostalgic Look at the American Automobile, 1920-1990 by Tad Burness

Whether you are interested in vintage vehicles like Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Miyagi or muscle cars like Johnny Lawrence, this book has everything.  It may even inspire you to open your own chain of car dealerships.  

 

 

North American Animals: Red Tailed Hawks by Megan Borgert-Spaniol

Learn all about the bird that inspired Eli Moskowitz's dramatic transformation and hairstyle. 

 

 

 

 

 

Okinawa: The History of an Island People by George H. Kerr

A definitive history of Okinawa, Japan—a small, but important island in East Asia which is the childhood home of Mr. Miyagi and the current home of Daniel LaRusso's friend Kumiko, and his former rival Chozen Toguchi.

 

 

 

 

For the Love of Metal (CD) by Dee Snider

 Even if crowded concerts are no longer happening, you can still rock out like Johnny and Miguel with Dee Snider's latest collection of music.