Waxing On

The Karate Kid and Me

By: Ralph Macchio

Narrated by: Ralph Macchio

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.

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

Karate Kid

I am a huge fan of The Karate Kid franchise as well as Cobra Kai. Fans of both will not be disappointed. Ralph Macchio tells the complete story of what it was like to be a part of both with humor, warmth and insight. He also explains the inside story of Hollywood. It is a fascinating story.

Watching on is a book that shines!

I really enjoyed this book. It was interesting to hear the tie ins between my old favorite movies and one of my new favorite shows! Ralph Macchio makes this very relatable. I love how he is a star who is as down to earth as his character, Daniel was. Sometimes the stars and planets just align as they have for Ralph with the karate kid franchise. The moment I finished this book on audible, I switched to the radio to findthe glory of love from the karate kid part two had just started playing! Talk about a cool moment! I definitely recommend giving waxing on a listen! You won’t regret it.

"OK"

I think Ralph had a perfect opportunity to publicly apologize to Elisabeth Shue and missed the opportunity.

As far as the story goes, it was very good and highly recommended.

I will give him 5 stars for giving his fans the time to talk and share, especially that boy whose father died and whom he met at the airport. Highly rare of an actor to take that kind of time to a fan.

God bless you, Ralph

Life lessons

The power of unity, a master and a student is empowerment. Thank you Ralph for putting life back into perspective and showing us that it’s people in our lives with all the memories that fill our hearts!

Nothing Gold Can Stay
Stacy Cornelius ❤️

Ralph is like my friend next door.

this was a great story with more to come I hope... it's especially enjoyable since I live in the same general area of Long Island as Ralph and have seen him with his family at dance recitals for his daughter, etc. and running into him at the driving range... he's like the neighbor and not a Hollywood jerk... someone who's your best friend... great book...