The Shaolin Way: Ten Modern Secrets Of Survival From A Shaolin Grandmaster

Born in the projects of Spanish Harlem to a disabled mother and an abusive father, Steve DeMasco spent most of his childhood lost and angry. Drifting from one job to another, he stalked the streets as a troubled youth, barely surviving while all of his peers were either dead or in jail, until he found himself on the steps of the Shaolin Temple.

Originating more than 1,500 years ago in ancient China, the Shaolin monks were simple farmers and worshippers of Buddhism who learned to protect themselves from the constant danger of bandits and overlords with a kind of "meditation in motion," a nonlethal form of self-defense that didn't violate their vows of peace. As their legend grew, they became known as the Shaolin Fighting Monks, revered across the land for their spiritual dedication, enlightened message, and amazing fighting skills.

DeMasco entered the Shaolin Temple to battle the demons of his past. But he got more than he bargained for. Besides learning how to wield weapons and take on multiple attackers at once, he discovered an ancient philosophy that helped melt away preconceived notions of the world, and gave him a powerful platform on which to live and grow. In The Shaolin Way, he adapts these teachings for the modern world, singling out ten secrets of survival that can help anyone live a more fulfilled life.

Steve DeMasco is a tenth-degree black belt in Shaolin kung fu who has dedicated his life to helping prisoners, teenagers, abused women, and many others who have lost their way. He currently lectures around the world on behavior modification and reducing school violence. He lives in New Hampshire with his wife and three sons.

Alli Joseph, a writer, producer and television host, has reported and produced for a variety of television outlets including USA Network, CBS News, VH1 and TNT. She's contributed to numerous magazines and newspapers, including Premiere, Maxim, People, the New York Daily News, Miami Herald and New York Post. She is a native New Yorker.