History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

KODO: Ancient Ways: Lessons in the Spiritual Life of the Warrior/Martial Artist (Literary Links to the Orient)

Average customer rating:

A Personal Favorite
Grateful!
Excellent reflections and lessons
Kodo Ancient Ways - Timeless Wisdom
Kodo-a book which every Budoka should read

KODO: Ancient Ways: Lessons in the Spiritual Life of the Warrior/Martial Artist (Literary Links to the Orient)
Kensho Furuya
Manufacturer: Black Belt Communications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0897501365

Book Description

Forty-one of the best articles of the popular Ancient Ways column in Martial Arts Training magazine are brought together. 150 illustrations, 40 never before published photos. A 6th dan in aikido and 6th dan kyoshi master instructor in iaido, Kensho Furuya is the resident chief instructor of the Aikido Center of Los Angeles.

Customer Reviews:

A Personal Favorite.......2007-02-24

This is among the very finest books on the martial ways that I have read - and, as someone who periodically engages in too much reading and not enough training, I've read a lot of them. I was led to this particular book through reading the author's daily webcolumn.

Some martial arts books have a lot of rambling or clicheed "filler" in them. On the contrary, these essays are generally very clear and focused, and betray the author's wealth of knowledge and experience. For example, it is very fashionable to speak about zen in martial arts texts, and throw around terms like "mushin". But unlike most of those texts, this book is actually written by someone who is expert in both zen and budo. As a result, the comparisons he makes are far more lucid, interesting, and (in my experience) applicable.

I encourage you to read this book. You will not regret it.

Grateful!.......2007-02-15

A few well timed books can change your life. Kodo was just such a book for me. I discovered it about six years ago at a time when my training could have gone many different ways. The lessons related by Furuya Sensei in Kodo helped me to reflect on the meaning of my training and find my true martial spirit. I will always be grateful for Kodo and for Furuya Sensei's continued teaching.

Excellent reflections and lessons.......2007-02-14

Though KODO can be found in the "Martial Arts" section of bookstores, what most immediately struck me about the book is the universal nature of the teachings within. Reading more like a compilation of reflections from a life devoted to martial and spiritual study, KODO is unique and a challenge to categorize.

My background from childhood was a little Karate and Gung-Fu, but when I was seventeen I saw an Aikido demonstration and felt a strong gravitation toward such training, which lead to KODO. Though the author, Rev. Kensho Furuya, teaches Aikido and Iaido, I think his writings are very applicable regardless of the martial study you pursue.

At just over 220 pages, KODO is a moderately sized book - but packed with so many anecdotes, images, and stories that it seems like there's always a little more to find. I particularly like many of the side-notes present throughout the book, "Unrealized potential is like no potential at all". As a chronic procrastinator, simple statements like that have made a real impact on my outlook.

KODO is in part a memoir and in part a lesson or guide book for those trying to find their way to a simpler path in an increasingly busy and complex world. Readers, who, like me, have felt an inner pull toward a more disciplined and thoughtful life, will not be disappointed by KODO and the stories within.

Kodo Ancient Ways - Timeless Wisdom.......2007-02-14

From K. Choate and B. Tysell

Written with obvious care and devotion by a decades-long practitioner and master of Aikido and Iaido, this book contains a split page format which allows the reader to reference succinct definitions relative to all aspects of Budo, while allowing the opportunity to gain greater depth of knowledge through its' more conversational essays relating to the same topics. From the deeply spiritual roots of martial arts practice, to the basis of martial arts training, to an historian's eye to technique and weaponry, this book remains a staple reference for the library of any serious martial artist. It becomes dog-eared and well loved quickly!

Kodo-a book which every Budoka should read.......2007-02-13

Mr Kensho Furuya Sensei is one off the Budospecialist, who know most of history and philosophy of Budo.
He speaks in this book very understandable and I learn a lot, every time I read in his book.

Zen and the Art of Street Fighting: True Battles of a Modern-Day Warrior

Average customer rating:

Dumbest Martial Arts Book Ever?
Open minded
This book is about a way of life.
Not for everyone.
Shameful

Zen and the Art of Street Fighting: True Battles of a Modern-Day Warrior
Jack Sabat
Manufacturer: Frog, Ltd.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1883319455
Release Date: 1996-12-02

Book Description

In twelve action-packed episodes, Jack Sabat recounts the great fights and lessons learned in nearly thirty years of practicing and teaching karate. Zen and the Art of Street Fighting takes us from training and battling with warriors from Japan and Hong Kong to the Philippines and New South Wales, to his own dojo in Southern California, where he practices with students and teachers from around the world.

Customer Reviews:

Dumbest Martial Arts Book Ever?.......2005-12-18

Stupid book supposedly about the silly subject of street fighting. But there are almost no street fights in it! Poorly written. If the author had trained in a Mixed Martial Arts gym and taken his beatings regularly via sparing, he probably would have been alot more humble than what he comes across in this book. Why the publisher went with this book is beyond me. Do not buy it. However, if you want an unwitting expose of alot of the things wrong with traditional martial arts, this would be a good.

Open minded.......2004-03-05

This books takes you into true life. What budo is truly about, self knowledge. This book discribes his quest for self inlightenment, and must be understood that way. Sensei Sabat is one of my Sensei's and is truely a great human, and role model. Like his training, supurb, his teachings go far beyond. He has trained great fighters such as Sensei "The Iceman" Chuck Liddell (UFC contender), and Sensei Tony Bacerra (national champion in Karate). I cannot stress enough that when you read this book you understand the point I have made that it is about HIS quests/trials. It may seem self centerd, but remember the book is about him.

BTW he would win in most all fights on the street. He is a very powerfull fighter. Also... A gun can take care of anyone so please dont say that if somebody came up to him with a gun he'd lose...

This book is about a way of life........2003-11-05

It seems many of these readers miss the message this human Sensei is attempting to document. It is not a story about how great a man Jack Sabat is, nor is it about how much he can suffer and endure. The point I received is that Karate is a way of life, and as with most worthwhile pursuits, great sacrifice, dedication and effort are required to obtain greatness.

Not for everyone........2003-11-05

Full Contact, no excuses, no applogies. The author describes how he arrived at a level of expertise few of us will ever know.

Shameful.......2003-09-25

This "Street Fighter" only recounts stories of fights in Dojos. Mostly with people who are already intimidated into believing that he can't be beaten. That's half the battle. I'll bet dollars to donuts that if the author ever has the misfortune to be attacked in the street he will be shot or stabbed before he even realizes it is a fight.

Vietnam was a vastly more comfortable war on an aircraft carrier.

He visited the Phillipines to learn Karate. Obviously Filipinos don't have any worthwhile arts of their own.

I won't even start on the childish understanding of Zen. Hint: Satori is not a psychosis.

For a genuine look at the mental/spiritual side of Karate try C.W. Nicol's "Moving Zen".

The truly regrettable thing is that this person is a teacher, therefore the culture of bad manners and dishonesty toward strangers, has been passed down to another generation, tarnishing the cultural treasure that is budo.

Give your ten bucks to charity. There is a lot of bad karma to redeem here.

Average customer rating:

A poignant look into the hearts of modern warriors

one for the coffee table...

Outstanding collection of views from modern budo teachers

The Warrior's Path

The Warrior's Path: Wisdom from Contemporary Martial Arts Masters

Manufacturer: Shambhala
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Budo Secrets: Teachings of the Martial Arts Masters

ASIN: 1590300742
Release Date: 2003-09-09

Book Description

"Budo is religion. It's not something you dilly-dally with, practice, and go home. It's part of your life. All martial arts should become that way, part of your life."—Pat Yoshitsugu Murosako, from The Warrior's Path The Warrior's Path presents the timeless wisdom of contemporary masters of the Japanese martial arts—men and women who brought martial arts into the modern era and whose lives have been defined by their devotion to training. Here they share their personal stories, offer perspectives on what martial arts study can offer people today, reflect on the role of formal competition, and describe what it's like to train as one grows older. The masters featured here began their training in the early twentieth century—a seminal time in the history of Japanese martial arts. They studied with some of the pioneers of judo, karate, aikido, iaido, kendo, and naginata—masters who emphasized that these battlefield arts were best understood and practiced as budo, or martial arts for self-development. These engaging stories, accompanied by the author's striking photographs, make this book essential reading for students and teachers of martial arts.

Customer Reviews:

A poignant look into the hearts of modern warriors.......2004-09-12

The interviewees in this short book take a nostalgic walk down philosophical lane. Many of the insights were thought provoking and intriguing, sans the one individual who damns everyone for talking him into moving to Brazil to pursue teaching his chosen budo art.

I always enjoy reading about modern budo (post WWII) and the Japanese take on the "brutal training" of days past. While I don't doubt the severity of some of the training, as with our own parents "everything was tougher back then."

Still, the feeling that traditional budo may be fading into the past is a concern for each of these modern masters. Many tell of their wants and needs to train individuals steeped in the koryu of their respective art. This has been a concern for many of the post WWII era budoka, but the traditional arts manage to cling to life, and seem to share a growing cyclical resurgance of popularity.

This book is definately worth a read, as it will make many budoka nod their heads in agreement, and hopefully re-energize the slow modern budo perpetuation.

one for the coffee table..........2004-08-22

As a coffee table book this one deserves 5 stars. Very nicely done, short stories, easy to read, arty photos, excellent lay-out, sure to impress someone who isn't even interested in martial arts. But, if you ARE interested in martial arts this book will probably disappoint you. The stories are too short and too shallow. The book is comprised of maybe 10 or so martial arts masters each telling a short autobiographical-type story. A few of the entries seem very pointless. Most of the masters tend to share the common theme of complaining that "things just aren't the same as they used to be". They complain that "attitudes are different", "students don't practice as hard as in the old days", "things are changing for the worst"... not much wisdom here. One laughable interview is with a Japanese woman who is a naginata expert. It is as if she says nothing at all. She explains some of her life story but there is no real opinion or wisdom offered at all. Like trying to learn something by watching a glass of water! Hmm... maybe that was her intention. Seriously, The problem with this book is that there is truly very little offered of any value or substance. The short stories presented by each expert were not very interesting even from a readability perspective, much less to be of any value for the serious martial artist. So, the question is: what was the point in making this book? The answer is that it is like a piece of art. Like an abstract painting one might hang on their wall to impress guests with. Looks beautiful. Creates a mood. I was hoping for some deep insights, mind-blowing philosophy, helpful tips, and maybe even a few interesting stories from all these masters, but instead, the author (translator, interviewer) serves up a bunch of fluff. I gave it 2 stars because this book is so lovely that even a nun wouldn't mind flipping through it. But, it reminds me of one of those fastfood hamburgers that is all bun, little meat and plenty of eye-dazzling condiments. I hope you find this review helpful because I really tried to be fair in my assessment of this book, and hope to forewarn anyone who might have the same initial hopes for this book that I once had before I stupidly wasted money on it.

Outstanding collection of views from modern budo teachers.......2004-08-17

The Warriors's Path is a really extraordinary collection of interviews of practitioners of the modern "Martial Ways" ( Gendai budo )who have filled their lives with training, are nearing the end of their lives and are able to ruminate on the significance that training has held from a perspective that few practitioners can. It is, I think, a perspective of great value to those young and not so young practitioners of modern budo today.

The text deals exclusively with Japanese budo teachers living in Japan or abroad. The similarity in world views of the teachers interviewed here and the consistancy of their answers regarding the deeper meanings of budo practise is still very surprising even in such a homogeneous group. Proof positive that regardless of whether one is practising Atarashii Naginata or Shorinji Kenpo the path is one and the same.

Strangely the cover displayed on this page of a Shorinji Kenpo practitioner is different from the "Karate-ka" cover I have. I found the pictures sometimes to be a bit TOO abstract at times. I found myself wishing to see the practitioners in action at times. Also barring this book from receiving a 5 star rating was the fact that mine came with several pages of text missing. I'm sure that this can't be a problem with all the copies, though.

In terms of content I would say that this is one of the more important books on budo I've read in the last 10 years.

The Warrior's Path.......2003-12-17

This is a treasure... a book that has captured the personalities of living masters of many different styles of martial arts from around the world. Great stories and very nice photo work.. anyone studying the martial arts should count this book as part of their library and on going research into their discipline.

Average customer rating:

A must!!!
Great historical perspective of FMA

Warrior Arts of the Philippines
Reynaldo S Galang
Manufacturer: Arjee Enterprises
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0972767916

Product Description

Profusely illustrated with over 1600 photos, this historical and highly informative publication is destined to become a classic and valuable resource on the Warrior Arts of the Philippines. Featuring in-depth biographies, exclusive personal insights, and detailed combative applications, this exclusive collection by acclaimed Filipino martial arts expert, teacher, and writer, Rey Galang, presents the priceless legacy and cultural treasures of the manifold Filipino martial arts. Discover the history, strenghs, and the secrets of six of the foremost systems in Philippine combat arts: Balintawak Eskrima, kali Ilustrisimo, Lameco Eskrima, Lightning Scientific Arnis, Modern Arnis and San Miguel Eskrima. Relive and experience the journeys of warriors past and present through the interviews and writings of the eminent masters and disciples of these celebrated combat arts.

Customer Reviews:

A must!!!.......2007-01-22

I can say without a shadow of a doubt that Rey Galang is now my favorite author on FMA subjects. In this book, just in "Masters of the Blade", he did a superb job of giving an excellent presentation of several chosen styles and their most respected exponents. This book is less "techically oriented" than the MOB book, i.e. there is more history and philosophy explined, as well as some methodology of training in various styles, while in the MOB book, every chapter featured an excellent training section too. Still, this is not a bad thing at all, cause like this one gets inspired in another way. I would even say that Mr. Galang has succeded in making the reader feel the "breath of old times" of FMA. After reading the conclusion, I can only regret that some of the people who were approached for the book did not take the opporunity to be part of something so good, but that again, nothing prevents me from hoping there might be the Part II... nad, just to make sure that there can still be improvements, I think that it might be better to skip someone from being presetned alltogether, than doing it like in the case of the late Sonny Umpad.

Great historical perspective of FMA.......2006-03-10

Having trained mostly in Japanese martial arts I was not very familiar with Filipino styles. This book gives a very good overview of both the different styles and the people instrumental in their development. Some of the photo sequences are better than others but don't expect to learn any FMA from this book. That is not an especially negative comment because you can not learn most martial arts from a book. Its strong point is that it may help you decide which style you would like to explore and give you direction as you look for a person to study under. This book is also a very nice tribute to the people who have expanded and preserved their native arts.

Immortal Combat: Portrait of a True Warrior

Average customer rating:

Immortal Combat: Portrait of a True Warrior
Bruce Thomas
Manufacturer: Blue Snake Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1583941738
Release Date: 2006-12-26

Book Description

A complete overview of all aspects of combat, from the primitive to the cutting-edge, Immortal Combat uses Bruce Lee’s life and work as a martial artist to examine the crucial differences between the soldier and the warrior. It draws an analogy between the ambitions of the competitive, ego-driven martial sportsman, typified by the career of karate champion Joe Lewis, and the spiritual aims of the martial artist, personified by the life of Morehei Ueshiba, the founder of aikido. Bruce Lee represents the man torn between his ambitions and his art, who somehow has to reconcile the two. The book argues that the path of the martial artist is that of self-mastery and self-knowledge, while the ambition of the martial sportsman is to set himself above and apart from others. This thought-provoking read moves beyond the popular image of Bruce Lee as an action hero, placing his life and legacy in a deeper context.

Bruce Lee: The Tao of the Dragon Warrior

Average customer rating:

The best man
Great for Photos but Lacking In Text
not a bad biography
not as enthrawling as I expected it to be

Bruce Lee: The Tao of the Dragon Warrior
Louis Chunovic
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Griffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0312142900

Customer Reviews:

The best man.......2002-12-13

When i read this book i thought that it would be stupid, but i read nad read until it started getting better.I rate this book with 5 stars because it teaches you how to fight and also some fighting moves.I think that if you read this book that you would like it to, thats all that i have to say about that.

Great for Photos but Lacking In Text.......2002-10-29

This book has tons and tons of photos of Bruce Lee but very little text information about Bruce and his life. It is a good overview but I was hoping for something a lot more substantial, especially interviews and such with those who knew and worked with Bruce.

not a bad biography.......2001-05-01

Pretty accurate about Bruce basics. This book is ok, But If you're going to read only one book about Bruce Lee, I strongly recommend THE TAO OF BRUCE LEE by Davis Miller, which is beautiful, funny, sad, inspiring, and surprisingly, a complete pageturner. I know Bruce's story pretty well but when reading Davis's book, there were moments when he actually had me wondering what would happen next. It's one of the best books about anybody or anything that I have read in a long time.

not as enthrawling as I expected it to be.......1999-09-04

It is an excellent book but a little hard to follow

Average customer rating:

Ugh
Excellent overview biography, a lively read!
Interesting, but dubious
Excellent Background Info
Hagiographic in tone

Invincible Warrior
John Stevens
Manufacturer: Shambhala
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1570623945
Release Date: 1999-02-16

Book Description

Invincible Warrior tells the fascinating story of the life of Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969), whose quest for the true meaning of warriorship lead to the creation of the martial art called Aikido, "The Art of Peace." Ueshiba—whose name means "abundant peace"—is considered by many to be one of the greatest martial artists who ever lived. His documented ability to disarm any attacker, throw a dozen men simultaneously, and down and pin opponents without touching them has accorded his life legendary status. Invincible Warrior presents the real story behind Morihei's achievement, illuminating the man and his message. Stevens describes the people, events, and ideas that influenced Ueshiba's lifelong spiritual quest, which culminated in the development of unique teachings of Aikido. Illustrated with two hundred photographs of Morihei in action and filled with revealing anecdotes about his life and times, Invincible Warrior also offers valuable discussion of the Founder's conception of Aikido as a path of harmony and love, unifying body and mind, self and others, humans and the universe.

Customer Reviews:

Ugh.......2006-08-27

This book should be put in the fantasy section of any bookstore.
I get terribly tired of the tales of Ueyeshiba's supernatural exploits. And sadly this book is replete with such nonsense. Seriously they should put this next to exploits of Drizzt Do'Urden or The Hulk.
A more interesting book would have chronicled the development of O'Sensei's early ideas on martial arts with his later crazy views. They are quite different, and moreover it is a progression you can see in the old photographs of him at work. Specifically, you see the journey he took from more or less practical aiki-jutsu to the flowery, ineffectual sillyness he wasted the latter years of his life on.

Excellent overview biography, a lively read!.......2006-07-13

I bought this book as I was looking for a reasonably complete (though not necessarily exhaustive) biography of the founder of Aikido, preferably with a good number of photographs as well as text. This book fulfilled those requirements, and exceeded my expectations. The story is fascinating and compelling, and it is told in a very enjoyable and readable way.

The author is an American who has lived and taught in Japan for many years. He has developed a deep understanding of Japanese culture which allows him to present this material well to an English-speaking reader.

As to charges that this book promotes mythology about Morihei Ueshiba: I'm really not in a position to say for myself, not having had a chance to compare this book with other authors' work on the topic. Until I do, I will reserve judgment. In any case, I found Stevens' book to be a very worthwhile read.

Interesting, but dubious.......2006-05-01

There's quite a bit of controversy on this book in the Aikido world, and I thought it might be important to interject some of what I've heard in my several years of training. First, this book was an entertaining bit of history, but I've heard it complained that Stevens "freely mixes actual history with rumor," and this certainly seems to be the case. This book seems to be symptomatic of the fantastical views of O Sensei in the Aikido world.

More generally, I recall George Ledyard-sensei weighing in on this topic - he mentioned that often, whenever stories of incredible exploits in this book are brought before Saotome-sensei, Saotome-sensei's stock reply is "For fifteen years I lived and trained with O Sensei, and never once did I see him do this 'magic-waza!' (magic technique)" Ledyard-sensei explained that Saotome-sensei is frequently irritated to hear Ueshiba-sensei's lifetime of work written off as being superhuman.

Nonetheless, the book makes for an interesting read, and though much of it is based on legend, it still gives a more complete picture of O-Sensie's life than I've found anywhere else.

Excellent Background Info.......2005-05-11

I've been studying Aikido for about a year now and always heard bits and pieces about O'sensei's life. I'm enjoying this book as it really is nice to fill in the story of his life. Granted, time has a way of exaggerating exploits but, knowing where he lived, and who he trained with and the background information is great. I can understand the movtivation of O'sensei and the reasons for his development of Aikido after reading the book.

As for the debate on the effectiveness of Aikido by Mark Twain. All I can say is it seems you have a closed mind and have already told yourself what you will learn and what you won't. So how can you learn to make Aikido effective when your limiting yourself like that? Aikido is one of the hardest martial arts to learn and effectiveness depends on the dojo and sensei as much as the student's willingness to learn. I agree some dojo's teach dance, so go elsewhere and find the real Aikido. I find my Aikido to be effective. You apparently did not. So be it. If you need and path to defend yourself fast I agree, Aikido probably isn't the best choice. Muay Thai, or Krav Maga would be my choices. Because a path is difficult, does not mean it should be avoided.

Hagiographic in tone.......2004-09-19

This book reads like a hagiography of Ueshiba - pardon, me I mean O Sensei. I mean, even though I never met him and don't speak Japanese I should be calling him O Sensei, right? Isn't that how you show that you're with it in the Aikido world? Look my friendly friends, Ueshiba may very well have been an exceptional man. But it is not professional or mature to write a book which is a syrupy-toned laundry list of Ueshiba's larger than life exploits. YOu know, like "The officers in the army were in the habit of raining blows down on the soldiers heads. But when Ueshiba came around, many an officer fractured his hands on Ueshiba's head!" Gee, that's swell. Imagine reading a biography of Wittgenstein that was like this. You know, he comes around and dazzles everyone, yet again. The End. Also, it is important to bear in mind that Aikido is a strangely flawed system of martial arts instruction. The students are led to do elaborate, highly choreographed, dance-like techniques against a very cooperative opponent. Aikido training certainly does not obey Occham's razor, i.e., the KISS principle, as in Keep It Simple, Stupid. Yes, yes, I know, I'm a lunkheaded philistine who doesn't unnerstand the beauty of the art, AND its deadly effectiveness. Well, I have no wish to argue with anyone. All I would say is that the student must think for himself. And ask himself in all honesty how likely it is that an attacker would wait around through all these fancy moves. Basic principle: when the defense is more elaborate than the attack, you're in trouble.

Quotations for Martial Artists: Hundreds of Inspirational Quotes to Motivate and Enlighten the Modern Warrior

Average customer rating:

Disappointing
Nice gift text for your Martial Artist friends
Librarians like it too!
Excellent bunch of quotes - not just for matrtial artists
Excellent bunch of quotes - not just for matrtial artists

Quotations for Martial Artists: Hundreds of Inspirational Quotes to Motivate and Enlighten the Modern Warrior
John D. Moore
Manufacturer: Writers Club Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Motivational | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Success | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Occult | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Personal Transformation | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Sports | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0595264921

Book Description

Quotations when engraved upon the memory give you good thoughts.

-Winston Churchill

I quote others only the better to express myself.

-Michel de Montaigne

Get Motivated! Get Inspired!

This book contains literally hundreds of quotations specifically chosen and organized for the martial artist. Many of the quotes cannot be found anywhere else!

From aikido to zen, from war to peace, authors, politicians, samurai and more - there's something in this book for the martial arts enthusiast at every level.

Customer Reviews:

Disappointing.......2007-02-07

This was quite possibly one of the driest compilations of quotations I have found. Any martial artist can easily surf the net in the very short time it takes to read this book and compile significantly more motivational and inspriational quotes than Moore provides. Simply, this book is a short compilation of mediocre quotes that left me disappointed at the content and irritated by the poor editing (i.e. one particular quote by Vince Lombardi appeared twice in the same chapter "Character" separated by only one page.) As short as this book is and with the large spaces between quotations, it is perhaps better suited as blog on Moore's website. Joke's on me...I bought it.

Nice gift text for your Martial Artist friends.......2006-07-02

With sections such as "Leadership," "The Mind," and "Training," it will make for pleasant occasional browsing by them. Though I personally wish the text were longer (it's only 1/2 a cm thick) it has proven enjoyable if not thorough. I give it 4 stars on the merit of the idea, but it takes a hit on the lack of material.

Librarians like it too!.......2004-05-15

I bought this book for a friend, a TKD black belt, law officer and law student. I read the whole thing the day it came and will not give it up. He gets his OWN copy!

Great collection of quotes for anyone who has pride and honor and character and wants to make a big impact in the world, and wants to read the thoughts of others for inspiration. Also for those of us who just like quote collections and/or motivational stuff. Great collection of classic and modern. Asian and Western. Love the theme chapter arrangment too. I'm a law librarian and sleep with my Bartlet's. The last book I got this jazzed up about was The 48 Laws of Power! This book has me even more excited because it fits in my purse!!

Great graduation gift for the go-getter!

Excellent bunch of quotes - not just for matrtial artists.......2003-03-04

There are a ton of really inspirational quotes in here. I am a salesperson (and I have practiced tae kwon do for 2 years), and I find the quotes in this book good for both endeavors.

Excellent bunch of quotes - not just for matrtial artists.......2003-03-04

There are a ton of really inspirational quotes in here. I am a salesperson (and I have practiced tae kwon do for 2 years), and I find the quotes in this book good for both endeavors.

The book is well organized and just the right size for travel. I find it fun just to leaf through it. I just bought a copy for my son as well who has just started tae kwon do. I hope that he'll find something in there that will keep him training.

Average customer rating:

Great Pocket Guide

Kuniyoshi's Heroes of China & Japan (Warrior) (Japanese Prints)
Oliver Impey
Manufacturer: Ashmolean Museum
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Asian | Regional | History & Criticism | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
Printmaking | Graphic Design | Design & Decorative Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Of Brigands and Bravery: Kuniyoshi's Heroes of the Suikoden

Kuniyoshi: The Faithful Samurai

Heroes of the Grand Pacification: Kuniyoshi's Taiheiki eiyu den

Tattoos of the Floating World: Ukiyo-E Motifs in Japanese Tattoo

Japanese Ghosts and Demons: Art of the Supernatural

ASIN: 1854441833

Customer Reviews:

Great Pocket Guide.......2006-03-21

A great abridged version of "Of Brigands and Bravery". But I would advise that anyone seriously interested in this subject should just get " Of Brigands and Bravery"
instead.

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