The Secret of Inner Strength: My Story

Karate champion and movie star Norris discusses his secrets of inner strength with the aid of show-biz biographer Hyams (Humphrey Bogart, Judy Garland et al.). Norris's formula consists primarily of positive thinking and visualizing in advance what will take place next, with added bits of advice on more specific subjects like dealing with failure and advancing beyond conceived limitations. The tone is didactic, and readers will find that the recommendations have the flavor of copy-book maxims. Further, the recapping of the plots of many of the star's films becomes tedious. Teenagers, however, may be taken with Norris's stated goal of offering a positive role model. Photos not seen by PW. (January 28)