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Waxing On

The Karate Kid and Me

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Waxing On

By: Ralph Macchio
Narrated by: Ralph Macchio
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An instant New York Times Bestseller!

Since The Karate Kid first crane-kicked its way into the pop culture stratosphere in June 1984, there hasn’t been a week Ralph Macchio hasn’t heard friendly shouts of “Wax on, wax off” or “Sweep the leg!” Now, with Macchio reprising his role as Daniel LaRusso in the #1 ranked Netflix show Cobra Kai, he is finally ready to look back and cele-brate the legacy of The Karate Kid in cinema, pop culture, and his own life.

The result, Waxing On, is a comprehensive look at the film that shaped Macchio as much as it influenced the world. He shares an insider’s perspective of the untold story behind the scenes—the innocence of the early days; the audition process; his experiences working with Pat Morita, Elisabeth Shue, and William Zabka; and so much more. He also takes readers through the birth of some of the film’s most iconic moments, including the creation of the famous crane kick and the touching scenes that revealed Mr. Miyagi’s intriguing backstory.

Ultimately, the book centers on Ralph’s indelible connection to the film itself, focusing on the reason that the characters and themes have endured in such a powerful way, and how these personal experiences have impacted Macchio’s life as well. It brings readers back to the day they met Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Miyagi for the first time, but also provides a fascinating lens into how our pasts shape all of us, and how they can come back to enrich our lives in surprising and wonderful ways.
Entertainment & Celebrities Entertainment & Performing Arts Film & TV History & Criticism Social Sciences Celebrity Entertainment Sports Combat Sports

Critic Reviews

“[Macchio’s] down-to-earth writing style suits the behind-the-scenes tales and his heartwarming meetings with fans well… Macchio’s sweet, nostalgic memoir is as family-friendly and instructive as its inspiration.” —Kirkus

“Macchio, star of 1984’s The Karate Kid, produces another feel-good hit with this breezy reflection on his experience making the movie…Macchio writes, ‘The film is a prime example of when Hollywood gets it all right. It teaches and inspires through pure entertainment.’ Fans will find this just as entertaining.”—Publishers Weekly

"Waxing On is a refreshing look into a film that touched our hearts and an era that defined so many of us. Through honest and witty reflection, the reader is plunged back into the unforgettable world of The Karate Kid, and the magic that happens when Hollywood is on point. Macchio shares his unique perspective with humor and humility as well as with surprising relatability. I was a fan before, but now I feel like a friend." —Brooke Shields, New York Times bestselling author of There Was a Little Girl

"I love my fellow “Greaser’, Ralph. But if I’m being completely honest, I’ve never gotten over the existential pain of The Karate Kid’s ongoing success and relevance. What does that movie have that Youngblood doesn’t?! Well, after reading Ralph’s fun and insightful recounting, I now totally get it. Long live The Karate Kid!" —Rob Lowe, New York Times bestselling author of Stories I Only Tell My Friends

"A breezy read that disproves the clanky, "Nice guys finish last,' cliche, but re-defines it as, 'Nice guys LAST.' This memoir will put you in the BEST mood, I promise." —Patton Oswalt, New York Times bestselling author of Silver Screen Fiend

"Ralph Macchio is ready to send the secrets of “The Karate Kid” to the mat once and for all."
—New York Post

"A loving tribute to an underdog story that still resonates, generation after generation." —Salon

"Macchio covers all things Karate Kid, serving up behind-the-scenes dish about the making of the film, warm remembrances of those he’s lost...and lessons learned from a life in the public eye."
—Hollywood Reporter
All stars
Most relevant
A great behind the scenes of the movie, the tv show and the Miyagi-verse and what it all means to be the man behind Daniel Larusso and the Karate Kid franchise.

If you are a fan of the movie you will love this read.

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Fantastic insight into the whole process surrounding these much beloved films. Ralph Macchio does a deep dive and it takes you back. It is funny, moving and poignant.
Do yourself a favour.

Loved the Karate Kid? You’ll love this!

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I love the backstory and didn't want it to end! Ralph's performance is excellent and the story is eye opening.

Ralph is an excellent narrator and the script is excellent.

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Great insight of the popular franchise, from the Karate Kid, himself
Definitely recommend for any of the movie franchise and the series
:)

Great Read And Listen

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I enjoyed this title. It was detailed and included an expansive range of topics. The author was a fine narrator. It would have been great to have featured more anecdotes from the filming of the Karate Kid trilogy but this does not diminish the quality of this title.

Intriguing And Informative

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