The Way Of The Ninja: Secret Techniques

Rating:
Summary: The Complete Story
Review: 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.

Rating:
Summary: Good starter material
Review: I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in persuing a career as a full-time, paid Ninja. With homeland security being of paramount importance, the demand for Ninjas is at an all time high. Invariably, it will be Ninjas ensuring the safety and well being of the American public.
Hatsumi provides wonderful instruction and large color photographs to teach his technique. In the chapter titled "Improvised Weapons", Hatsumi deftly ties two tampons together to make numchucks. This thousand year old technique is revealed in rich detail. A bonus to this book is the Appendix section which contains sample resumes and contact letter formats for helping new and inexperienced Ninjas find work.
Since this is a beginners book, I wouldn't recommend it for Ninja Journeymen or Grand Masters.

Rating:
Summary: Good book
Review: 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.

Rating:
Summary: Hiden Desu Ne!
Review: This is a good book to catch more information on history portions which aren't generally covered in depth such as the armour and attire. There are beautiful images although in black and white. Many techniques are also demonstarted within the book, however, don't expect to learn them from the book itself. They, just like the text, is meant to be pieces of the puzzle of what ninpo is. The book is an enjoyable read which can be interpretted in a number of ways. Enjoy.

Rating:
Summary: First Hatsumi Sensei Book
Review: This is my first purchase from Hatsumi Sensei. It was very easy reading and helpful to understand the history. After reading it I put it on my shelf for a couple of weeks and then read it again. I still found different concepts and saw the photos in a different way then the first time. I gave it four stars because it would have been nice to have some color photos inside instead of all of them being black and white.