The Way of the Ninja: Secret Techniques by Masaaki Hatsumi
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Book Reviews of The Way of the Ninja: Secret Techniques
Book Review: Involvement is the only way
Summary: 5 Stars
For those expecting lists of techniques and a 'one-two-three' approach to martial arts, this book will no doubt appear as a disappointment. This is not surprising as I would suggest that this book is directed at those who want to, and are able to, see the larger picture in the martial arts.
Suffice as to say, without a thorough immersion in the principles that Hatsumi-sensei teaches (an immersion based on CONTINUAL and DIRECT practice with Soke himself), then a lot of what is presented in this book, interesting as it may be, will probably appear to be no more than the random musings of an aging martial arts master.
The pictures and text work together in such a way as to provide a natural sense of confusion that is, dare I say, inspiring in it's honesty. Forget the naysayers who deride the lack of 'logic' as this book is quite direct with it's ninja-like glimpses of Soke's art. For better of for worse, this apparent confusion is part and parcel of learning in Hatsumi-sensei's art. Some can perservere with this approach, some cannot.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough to all martial artists, especially those who are inspired to learn Soke's Bujinkan art.
Book Review: The Complete Story
Summary: 5 Stars
Dr. Hatsumi is possibly the most famous Ninja grandmaster in the world today. In this book he explains the essence, truth, and wisdom of Ninjutsu, an art of a thousand forms and innumerable variations.
A Ninja, in ancient Japan was not the hired assassin of the movies, but a feudal warrior assigned to protect their families, their clans, and their country. Harshly trained they developed a tough but pliant spirit, and martial skills suitable for coping with any situation. He would avoid unnecessary conflict, and even if armed with a blade would find a way to win without staining it. The basic creed was to win without conflict. Continual fighting requires that you must win all the time, one failure (with Japanest swords) was likely your last. The true skill of the Ninja was to survive.
Here is the story of the Ninja told in a combination of writing and photographs that deliver the essence of the Ninja way of life.
Book Review: The First of Three Important Books by Hatsumi Sensei
Summary: 5 Stars
This book is the first in a series of three important books by Hatsumi Sensei. The first two have been written and released within the last five years, the third one will be released soon.
1. The Way of the Ninja
2. Advanced Stickfighting
3. Japanese Kenjutsu
I might be wrong about the title of the third book as it has not been released, but that is the subject. These books are filled with amazing photographs and some pretty high-level concepts in the text.
These books contain secret techniques that a non-Bujinkan student may have trouble deciphering.
In any event, there is much truth and wisdom written in between the lines and I cannot recommend them highly enough. Honestly, there really aren't any other authors that are worth reading when it comes to this subject. If you want to study real ninjutsu, start with these books.
Book Review: Great Book
Summary: 5 Stars
I've been a practioner in the Bujinkan since 1992. If you study this art then you will understand the movements that you see shown. You'll be able to make the leap and know what is actually going in the pictures. As far as philosphy goes, its the Boss's art. The Boss has been dealing with the negative Hollywood Image for years and this book explains his opinion and his knowledge on the subject of Ninjutsu. No one knows this subject better than him. If you want to believe Hollywood, Turnbell, and all the rest, then go ahead. Or believe what the Boss is talking about. Its really your choice.Book Review: Good book
Summary: 5 Stars
Maasaki Hatsumi is definitely the real thing (unlike Ashida Kim) and this book doesn't disappoint. It is informative and enjoyable to read. You won't be able to train or learn techniques from the book (for that, find a good instructor) but you will come away with an understanding of what Ninjitsu is and was.
Hatsumi's book is more philosphical and spiritual, focusing on the essence of this historical art. If you're looking for something on combative techniques and/or other "real-world" things, I'd recommend other books and videos on Amazon or www.navysealteams.com.