Rating: 
Summary: A very refreshing look at Isshinryu
Review: As an Okinawan Karate practitioner with over 20 years experience, (most of it in Isshinryu) I find this work very detailed in its history of the system. The author gives credit to many of the early Isshinryu pioneers that have not been made mention of in previous works like Don Bohan, and others who did much to futher Isshinryu but have recieved little or no written credit. The author also delves into other aspects which have previously not been covered like the hard/soft aspects of this system and the various roles of kata in training. His exploration of the political infighting that abounds in this system is bound to have some very unkind comments sent his way, but he should be given credit for casting light on this "skeleton in the closet" anyway. This is far from being a how to book, its true value is its historical approach, and insightfullness into the system. I highly recommend it.
Rating:
Summary: A very refreshing look at Isshinryu
Review: As an Okinawan Karate practitioner with over 20 years experience, (most of it in Isshinryu) I find this work very detailed in its history of the system. The author gives credit to many of the early Isshinryu pioneers that have not been made mention of in previous works like Don Bohan, and others who did much to futher Isshinryu but have recieved little or no written credit. The author also delves into other aspects which have previously not been covered like the hard/soft aspects of this system and the various roles of kata in training. His exploration of the political infighting that abounds in this system is bound to have some very unkind comments sent his way, but he should be given credit for casting light on this "skeleton in the closet" anyway. This is far from being a how to book, its true value is its historical approach, and insightfullness into the system. I highly recommend it.
Rating: 
Summary: A good attempt at explaining a complex system
Review: I'm all for any book on my style of Karate, but there really isn't much in this book that isn't found in other isshinryu books. Not only that but there are some errors that give away the fact that one the author's reference were obviously older isshinryu books that are know to have said errors. Also there are no techniques in this book, its purpose is more aimed at just giving the history of Isshinryu. However with errors, like the founder's birthday being the wrong day and year, it could use a little bit more work.
Rating:
Summary: Great Book for all Karate-ka
Review: I've been hearing people talk about this book for the past year but, just got down to reading it recently. It's well written, very informative about not just Isshinryu but Okinawan Karate as a martial art in general. In fact it should be made recommend reading for Isshinry practitioners. THere are a few areas where I disagreed with the author, in particular his views towards tournament karate but over all it's got to be one of the best I've ever read on Isshinryu and thats after 15 years of practice.
Rating:
Summary: Well Done
Review: Its a well done book on not only the history of Isshinryu but Okinawan Karate as well. There are other books which deal with the subject more in depth but you'll be hard pressed to find them. As far as Isshinryu goes this is one of the best done to date. The author explores not only the systems founding and the linage of the system but also Soke SHimabuku's life as well. He explains the Hard/Soft elements of the system and even gives insight into how the kobudo weapons play a major role in not only armed combat but also unarmed as well. Over all its a book well worth reading. His other book: The FIghting Arts Their Evolution from Secret Socities to Modern Times is also one to read as well. It in many ways picks up where this left off and gives even further insight into the founding of the Okinwan systems.
Rating: 
Summary: A concise history and description of Isshinryu karate
Review: Mr. Rosenbaum did an excellent job of researching the rich history of Isshinryu karate. His book includes details about Okinawan history, the influences on Tatsuo Shimabuku, kata description, and the personalities involved with the development of Isshinryu in the United States. His writing style is obviously considerate of the new karate-ka (student) and provides a general overview of Isshrinyu without spending too much time on any one topic. I have applied Mr. Rosenbaum's information to questions presented to me in the dojo by my sensei, so the topics Mr. Rosenbaum covers are very applicable.The major fault with this book is poor editing. Typographical errors that are common to any author are present and this book would benefit greatly by a professional editor reviewing the text prior to the next edition. But the errors are not so abundant as to distract the reader. I appreciate Mr. Rosenbaum's attitude about the political issues between different Isshinryu organizations. His respectful tone and hope for a stronger Isshinryu community are good examples for the rest of us. Another strength to this book are the simple illustrations of the major contributors to Isshinryu accompanied by brief biographies. I would like to see more of Mr. Rosenbaum's illustrations in a future edition.
Rating:
Summary: a great historical perspective on a great martial art
Review: Mr. Rosenbaum has certainly done his research. This book covers all aspects of the development of Isshin-Ryu Karate. He outlines how chinese martial arts, kobudo sytems and the budo systems of japan influenced okinawan karate. This book also provides detailed information on the philosphy of Isshin Ryu and its growth in the united states. If you're looking for a how to book look somewhere else, but if you want an outstanding book on the history of an effective martial art look no further.
Rating:
Summary: Isshin Ryu book review
Review: My thoughts on this book are mixed. On one hand the book is well written, but on the other hand the book has some interesting facts. Everyone has their view on Isshin Ryu, and most people's do not agree with eachothers'. Isshin Ryu has a sorted past with many "experts" claiming to know the history. Maybe there are a few experts out there, but what were they really taught. Remember this, the USA was at war with Japan during the time when the martial arts were being taught to Americans. So how can we be sure that the information passed on to us is accurate. We all have our own thoughts and each of us has had knowledge passed down from our Senseis', which was passed down from theirs'. Mr. Rosenbaum has put together a little piece of Isshin Ryu history that should be read and not criticized. We are all under Master Shimabuku and need to unify.
My 2 cents.
Bryan Winkelman (www.senseibryan.com) - author of "Training Manual for Isshin Ryu Karate" listed on amazon.com
Rating: 
Summary: A Strange Variation of the Isshinryu System
Review: On the good parts:
An overall interesting read. Everything else:
Okay, this book is rather divergent from any branch of Isshinryu with which I have dealt. In it, Mr. Rosenbaum propagates much of the false information of Isshinryu, such as the patch "Megami" (meaning simply "goddess") being named "Mizugami" (which means water goddess, or goddess of a specific body of water), Shimabuku's uncle refusing martial instruction (he instructed him in both martial arts and fortune telling), the Japanese helping Tatsuo avoid conscription in exchange for karate lessons, and several other misinformed ideas. As for the technical information presented, it is not particularly in-depth. In closing, pick another book.
Rating:
Summary: A Strange Variation of the Isshinryu System
Review: On the good parts:
An overall interesting read. Everything else:
Okay, this book is rather divergent from any branch of Isshinryu with which I have dealt. In it, Mr. Rosenbaum propagates much of the false information of Isshinryu, such as the patch "Megami" (meaning simply "goddess") being named "Mizugami" (which means water goddess, or goddess of a specific body of water), Shimabuku's uncle refusing martial instruction (he instructed him in both martial arts and fortune telling), the Japanese helping Tatsuo avoid conscription in exchange for karate lessons, and several other misinformed ideas. As for the technical information presented, it is not particularly in-depth. In closing, pick another book.
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