Kishido: The Way of the Western Warrior

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Summary: Kishido: The Art of the Western Warrior
Review: About 2500 years ago the Chinese General Sun Tzu gave his people, and subsequently many others, a guide for martial thinking in his `Art of War.' Just prior to his death in 1645, Miyamoto Musashi wrote his Go Rin No Sho; `A Book of Five Rings.' Both of these classics still stand today as path for the martial artist, businessman, even clandestine operative, to use for life. What makes them so extant after so long, and mandatory study for so many are the seamless blends of philosophy integrated with true courses of action. While there have been many books on Western warfare, the lack of a concomitant philosophy denied them the consummate wisdom of the oriental texts. Finally there is a choice for the modern martial artists of the western world; Peter Hobart's `Kishido': The Art of the Western Warrior. In his novel Peter presents essays on such varied topics as the importance of a pure heart, as well as what a pure heart really is, to a description of the last few days with a master that illuminates how one might learn to accept his own "last few days."

The book is separated into five parts, perhaps as a homage to Musashi's work, with the parts setting a foundation for thought and life, explaining the range, strategy, living in harmony, and at last, the void.
Each essay is like a Zen Koan, a thought, a meditation of its own. After reading the work in its entirety it is very worthwhile to take any one essay and contemplate it at length. One may also look at the separate titles of each thought and turn to the one which most closely resembles any difficulty, confusion or cusp he or she might at that time be facing.

For the philosopher, Mr. Hobart offers a look into Western/Eastern thinking. For the martial artist he illuminates the necessity of being more than a fighter as well as the obligations he or she must truly assume. For anyone the book is a guide to a more chivalrous life of thought, word and deed.

For those of us who simply wish to be a better, more reasoned, more seasoned, person, this is a must read!

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Summary: Excellent guide for principled action
Review: I found this book to be an informative work by a "Master" of modern day philosophical concepts. Important lessons for all can be found within its pages. I recommend it to everyone, no matter whether their vocation is "fighting, fishing or flowering arranging." Those who value "meiyo" (honor) and "makopo" (truth) will find this book meaningful. Reading "Kishido" is "gi" (right decision).

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Summary: Wonderful Christmas Gift
Review: Kishido is a fabulous book that is suitable for everyone, especially for the martial artist whether it be a student or an instructor. This book is filled with wonderful wisdom that can be applied to the reader in any way they desire. It is truly the beginning of a journey for the reader, providing a road for self discovery. I personally have benefitted from reading Kishido, I became a better person and I am much more aware of the way that I have an impact on others in my life. Kishido, The Way of the Western Warrior is a must read and it would be an excellent christmas gift for anyone. It will touch your heart and mind in a very unique way.

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Summary: Wonderful Christmas Gift
Review: Kishido is a fabulous book that is suitable for everyone, especially for the martial artist whether it be a student or an instructor. This book is filled with wonderful wisdom that can be applied to the reader in any way they desire. It is truly the beginning of a journey for the reader, providing a road for self discovery. I personally have benefitted from reading Kishido, I became a better person and I am much more aware of the way that I have an impact on others in my life. Kishido, The Way of the Western Warrior is a must read and it would be an excellent christmas gift for anyone. It will touch your heart and mind in a very unique way.

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Summary: perhaps biased
Review: My review may not be entirely objective; I have known the author for some years and have been fortunate to have him as a friend, a teacher, and a training partner. His book is reflection of his personality, and of his experience in the martial arts. If you are a thoughtful pratitioner you will find this book well worthwhile. If you enjoy works such as Lowry's "Autumn Lightning" you will find this a most enjoyable read.

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Summary: Excellent guide for principled action
Review: The cover was rather off putting to me, but once I opened the book I noticed the calligraphy - which fortunately kept my attention long enough for me to read what was inside. Excellent writing. What I like about this book is that the author's writing indirectly points to what he is saying, rather like the style of most martial arts instructors. We learn best what we learn for ourselves. Anyway, there are some distinctions in this book that I have found very useful - both for myself, and for bringing up the level of the professionals I work with.

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Summary: Not just a book about the martial arts
Review: This book is of great interest and value to any person seeking to live a life more fully actualized. While frequent reference is made to the author's martial training, and there is a touch of history, this is not a book about the martial arts. No "moves", holds, or techniques are described; rather, it is primarily a work of 'practical' philosophy. The reader is rewarded with a cohesive overview of the author's insights, organized in a way that makes the reasons for the lessons more apparant, thus enabling the reader to better appreciate and retain the lessons. I recommend this book with great enthusiasm to all thoughtful people!