Rating: 
Summary: Probably the best book on Self Protection available today.
Review: If you never buy another book on self protection make sure you get this one. In the world of martial arts and self defence most of the emphasis is placed upon block and counter attack techniques but these simply do not come in to play when you don't see your attacker(s) coming. Today's attacker is a coward who will use deception to mentally disarm you quite possibly by stopping you to ask the time or directions and then drawing a weapon whilst you are distracted. Geoff's book explodes the myth that you can block, punch and kick your way out of a violent situation when attacked. If you are not aware then you are a victim regardless of size or experience. Geoff's style is, as always, to give the reader the whole, unadulterated truth about violent confrontation without unnecessary embellishment or side-stepping controversial topics. A veteran of over 300 fights working as a bouncer and in the street this man talks from experience and with an understanding of his subject few can equal. In some ways Dead or Alive is an amalgamation of Geoff's previous texts containing extracts from his own and other books but this only adds to the overall effect as it gives the reader a superb overview of the subject. Those of you who have read Geoff's other books will not be disappointed. Step by step he explains in lay terms how to avoid becoming a victim often repeating important points to get the message across and where necessary highlighting these with witness accounts of real crimes from the victim's and the attacker's perspective. Not for children, this book does contain disturbing interviews with serial killers, rapists and muggers and underlines not only the methodology of their attacks but also the shocking disregard they have for their prey, many believing that their victims deserve everything they get. Geoff's approach is if you want to know how a rapist chooses his victims you don't ask a psychologist, you ask a rapist! The main aim of the book is to make the reader a difficult person to target (Target Hardening). This is effectively achieved by awareness techniques, detailing the different methods and approaches used to select victims and how to spot and stop them in the early stages. Also pointed out is how by not being aware individuals can select themselves often resulting in an attack with no warning from an opportunist. Everything is covered here from the body language and fight rituals to adrenaline and it's effects as well as useful tips on tactics, deception, target areas, improvised weapons and a lot more. This is probably the best and most concise book on self protection you are likely to read. Not geared to exclude those without formal training it makes the perfect accompaniment to any serious training program and for those with no experience it offers a stark insight into the reality of violence worlds apart from the often romanticised celluloid variety. If you are looking for a book that will turn you into a killing machine you are going to be disappointed, stick to Rambo films and good luck but if you want sound advice and are prepared to face reality then if the worst should ever happen, this book might one day save your life.
Rating:
Summary: Probably the best book on self protection available today.
Review: If you never buy another book on self protection make sure you get this one. In the world of martial arts and self defence most of the emphasis is placed upon block and counter attack techniques but these simply do not come in to play when you don't see your attacker(s)coming. Today's attacker is a coward who will use deception to mentally disarm you quite possibly by stopping you to ask the time or directions and then drawing a weapon whilst you are distracted. Geoff's book explodes the myth that you can block, punch and kick your way out of a violent situation when attacked. If you are not aware then you are a victim regardless of size or experience. Geoff's style is, as always, to give the reader the whole, unadulterated truth about violent confrontation without unnecessary embellishment or side-stepping controversial topics. A veteran of over 300 fights working as a bouncer and in the street this man talks from experience and with an understanding of his subject few can equal. In some ways Dead or Alive is an amalgamation of Geoff's previous texts containing extracts from his own and other books but this only adds to the overall effect as it gives the reader a superb overview of the subject. Those of you who have read Geoff's other books will not be disappointed. Step by step he explains in lay terms how to avoid becoming a victim often repeating important points to get the message across and where necessary highlighting these with witness accounts of real crimes from the victim's and the attacker's perspective. Not for children, this book does contain disturbing interviews with serial killers, rapists and muggers and underlines not only the methodology of their attacks but also the shocking disregard they have for their prey, many believing that their victims deserve everything they get. Geoff's approach is if you want to know how a rapist chooses his victims you don't ask a psychologist, you ask a rapist! The main aim of the book is to make the reader a difficult person to target (Target Hardening). This is effectively achieved by awareness techniques, detailing the different methods and approaches used to select victims and how to spot and stop them in the early stages. Also pointed out is how by not being aware individuals can select themselves often resulting in an attack with no warning from an opportunist. Everything is covered here from the body language and fight rituals to adrenaline and it's effects as well as useful tips on tactics, deception, target areas, improvised weapons and a lot more. This is probably the best and most concise book on self protection you are likely to read. Not geared to exclude those without formal training it makes the perfect accompaniment to any serious training program and for those with no experience it offers a stark insight into the reality of violence worlds apart from the often romanticised celluloid variety. If you are looking for a book that will turn you into a killing machine you are going to be disappointed, stick to Rambo films and good luck to you but if you want sound advice and are prepared to face reality then if the worst should ever happen, this book might one day save your life.
Rating:
Summary: The definitive book for self-protection.
Review: DEAD OR ALIVE is one of my favorite books in a very large library. One of the many places I underlined in this book was on page 4: "...in most cases, victims who do not resist their assailants suffer far more guilt and regrets afterward than victims who attempted to fight back. If you cannot avoid confrontation, fight back!" I was also happy to read his words on p. 95 (regarding the kubotan keyring), "This wonderful little weapon is both effective and legal (indeed a rarity!), with various facets. In the hands of an expert, its uses limitless." When I was young and fearful I used to carry a .32 automatic, but I gave it up long ago. Now, at age 71, I carry a kubotan wherever I go. I just learned that Geoff has a hardcover book out, called BOUNCER. I am ordering it at once, confident that it, too, will be not only instructional but unusually interesting!
Rating: 
Summary: Solid, Realistic, Useful
Review: Geoff Thompson seems to be of the sort that has experienced violence 1st hand and then set about to systematically research and understand how best to handle it (as opposed to those who learn how to handle it 1st through martial arts, etc. and then try to figure out how to apply whaqt they already "know").
The upside is, he can give you a specific blueprint of what has worked and not worked for him in the real world. The downside is that everyone is different and what works for on eperson may not for another, but that should not keep you from getting alot out of this fine book. Thompson jumps right into things attempting to remove the blinders on real-world danger covering target hardening, the 4 Ds, Andrenalin Dumps, Color Codes of Awareness and specific safety Dos and Don'ts for your home, car, etc. The next section (Attackers + their Rituals) breaks down the "enemy" (amateur and pro) including mindset, likely intended victims, modus operandi, and interviews with each type.
The point that struck me again and again was how critical awareness is in giving you options other than becoming a victim. Avoidance, de-escalation and diffusion, or even split-second preparation for the inevitable all present themselves with awareness of who then enemy is and where he is in regards to attacking you. Chpt. 2 covers controlling fear. There is an excellent exercize called the Fear Pyramid which is worth the price of the book alone. He also covers psychologically turning the tables on your attacker and "psyching" him or them out. The 2nd section covers the physical component. Fighting techniques, targets, weapons, throws, multiple opponents and situational defenses (such as being in a headlock).
The material is both practical and thorough and of course limited since I don't believe you can effectively learn to punch and kick by reading anymore than you can learn to dance or juggle.
If you're looking to add some techniques to your arsenal or figue out where to start, this can certainly point you in the right direction. Thompson ends with mental hurdles to training, visualization, dealing with the emotional aftermath of physical confrontations, a summary of key principles in the book and First Aid. I picked up several useful concepts and execizes and especially enjoyed the interviews near the beginning. I recommend it highly. Also recommended are Gift of Fear (ISBN 0440226198), Street E&E (ISBN 0873647432), Strong on Defense (ISBN 0671535110), and Safe in the Street (VHS ASIN: 6304968124) all of which give different slices and staying safe.
Rating:
Summary: Dead or Alive The Choice is Yours
Review: great practical advise on self defence, This book is a worthy read.
Rating:
Summary: This book is a must have!
Review: I really enjoyed this book. Instead of being full of techniques, the book is heavy on concepts that can really keep you safe in the streets. You cannot truly learn how to fight from a book, but this book teaches you how not to fight and how to stay alert so that you can stay alive. Everyone should own this book.
Rating:
Summary: This book is a must have!
Review: I really enjoyed this book. Instead of being full of techniques, the book is heavy on concepts that can really keep you safe in the streets. You cannot truly learn how to fight from a book, but this book teaches you how not to fight and how to stay alert so that you can stay alive. Everyone should own this book.
Rating:
Summary: Very REAL!
Review: I've been training in Wado Ryu Karate now for sometime, and I've always been interested in the more self defence side of things.For me, self defence is it, it's what it's all about! I'd had some thoughts of my own, I'd thought that i could talk my way out of a fight, and if ti came to it, I'd be able to handle myself. Oh no! Who is the best person to tell you the way street fights go - some one who's had a few. Being a bouncer he's had more hands on experience and seen more fights than I've had hot dinners. The best place to go for advice for something is from someone who's had the experience. The book itself is very well structured, with emphasis on enlightening the reader to the way it is, and not with some sure proof method to defend yourself against every foe who crosses your path. With case histories, advice, and method, get coded up - get this book!!!
Rating:
Summary: Reality or Fantasy the Choice is Yours:
Review: In all honesty I probably should rate this book 5 stars, given the uniqueness of the content, insights into the criminal mind and the brutal honesty of the author Geoff Thompson. I think of all the martial arts books I checked out of librarys, bought at stores, and magazines I read at supermarket shelves that I was usually to cheap to buy. Of all the materials I collected, read, etc, I really wish there had been a book like Dead or Alive out there for me years ago. Geoff Thompson makes it very clear that knowing hundreds of techniques doesn't create a magic wand of invinsability and that simplicity is often overlooked. Thompson also examines myths, misconceptions, and blatently stupid beliefs held my many who teach traditional martial arts. Technique teaching is only part of this book, Thompson interviews muggers, rapest, and their unfortunate victims and allows readers to understand how criminals choose their prey and how you can safely take percautions to help reduce the risk of being a vicim. Thompson also goes into explaining adrenalyn and how even the most experienced martial artists can find themselves defeated by mistaking their adrenalyn for fear. This book like any other Geoff Thompson book comes with my strong recommendation.
Rating: 
Summary: Not worth it!
Review: The book is a complete waste of money from every aspect. If you are a serious martial artist or a coach, I'd recommend books by Loren Christensen, especially "Fighter's Fact Book". If you don't have a serious martial arts background, I'd highly recommend "Common Sense Self-Defense" by David Garcia and Steward Smith.
| 
