‘American Shaolin’: Interview with Matthew Polly
Travel Blog • Michael Yessis • 04.19.07 | 7:57 AM ET
Gadling’s Justin Glow has posted a Q&A with Matthew Polly, whose book “American Shaolin” chronicles two years living and training with Shaolin Monks in China. “When I was a kid I saw the TV show Kung Fu with David Carradine. I idolized his character,” Polly tells Gadling. “He looked as awkward as I felt and yet he was a total bad-ass. When I was in college I started to study Chinese language, philosophy, Ch’an (Zen) Buddhism, and kung fu. The Shaolin Temple is the birthplace of kung fu and Zen Buddhism, so it was like going to the source.” ‘Shaolin’ has been getting good reviews, and the movie rights have been optioned by Fox2000. Polly has posted an excerpt on his Web site.
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Michael Yessis is the cofounder and coeditor-in-chief of World Hum.
justin 04.19.07 | 7:39 PM ET
I just finished reading the book last night, and the good reviews are correct. Polly’s humor, wit, insight, and bravery make this book a real gem. I loved it.
justin 04.19.07 | 7:41 PM ET
...and thanks for the link, Michael!
Michael Yessis 04.20.07 | 8:39 AM ET
You’re welcome, Justin. And, indeed, it’s a fine interview.
marie mckenna 10.23.07 | 9:13 PM ET
The book was great! Very funny, educational and inspiring. I could have married this man!!!
Martry 01.25.08 | 12:57 AM ET
The most enjoyable, powerful, book of socially, historical truth I have every experienced. That is unless, Rich Man Poor Man was a true story! This book will take you to places you will not want to leave, until it is time for you to go {Grass hopper}! The ending was a powerfully look into the relativity of time! AWSOME narrative of a true adventure! UNBELIEVABLE! I am seriously contemplating on quitting my job, heading off on a path less traveled. I suppose for Matthew Polly, that has made all the difference! You fantastic son of a bitch (enviously speaking of course!)
mike 03.09.08 | 1:24 AM ET
loved the book i just have one question for matt. what happend to little tiger ??? thier was no mention of him in the reunion. i want to know what happend to that little madda fakkka.