The Martial Arts History Museum will host a special book signing and reading event with author Tim Kirk on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 4 p.m. The free event celebrates the launch of Kirk's debut novel, All My Damned Mother's Sons, which explores music history through the journey of a singer and guitarist following in Elvis Presley's footsteps from 1959 to 1973.
Kirk described the novel as a passion project inspired by early rock and roll artists. "I was inspired by many of the singers and songwriters who didn't get a chance to ride down the golden road that Elvis paved, and by Elvis who did," Kirk said. "I'm glad I wrote it because, ultimately, it rocks." The book immerses readers in the music, style, and fashion of the era, with Elvis playing a major role in the narrative.
The author chose the Martial Arts History Museum as the venue due to his personal connection to martial arts. His seventeen-year-old daughter, a black belt in Tang Soo Do, will perform a martial arts form presentation before the reading. Kirk emphasized the unique opportunity to combine cultural events, stating, "When I discovered the Martial Arts History Museum, I immediately felt that this was the place I'd like to launch the book signing."
The museum encourages attendees to arrive early to explore its exhibits, which preserve and educate about martial arts history. Located at 201 N. Brand Blvd., B100, Glendale, CA 91203, the museum is the world's first and only institution dedicated to martial arts history. More information about the museum can be found at https://martialartsmuseum.com.
This event represents a unique cultural intersection, bringing together literary arts, music history, and martial arts in a single venue. The free admission makes it accessible to the public, supporting both local arts and cultural education. The combination of a book reading with a martial arts demonstration creates an innovative approach to community engagement and cross-cultural appreciation.
