1 comments about "Conan The Barbarian" - The Hour of the Dragon.

1. This is the longest Conan story Howard wrote. There is some serious hacking and slashing going on!!! Conan is wearing the jeweled crown of Aquilonia on a troubled brow (thanks Mako) as this story opens,. An ancient evil has awakened and it is up to Conan to take care of bidness old school. Howard spins a great tale. Many have read this story, but if youhaven't, or it has been a long time, go for it. The kindle version is only a dollar and you will be riveted, or nostalgic, for a good while.

5 comments about Bo: Karate Weapon of Self-Defense.

1. This is a good book. It covers all the basic stances, strikes and blocks. It normally gives the english name of a technique after the Japanese name, but not always. For someone with my limited memory, I would have liked an index to the techniques, so when the book refers to one I've forgotten, I can quickly find it. But it doesn't have an index so I spend a lot of time flicking back and forward.
   Also, the descriptions are very wordy. Instead of just saying 'Execute an XYZ strike', it describes every step every time, which make the combination moves and kata very long winded.



2. This is a very well done book on the subject of the bo staff, and it gives you an outstanding overview of this kobudo weapon and its history along with a variety of techniques demonstrated by the author.
   
   The book then delves into the basic techniques you will need to know in order to effectively utilize the bo staff. This includes various grips, stances, strikes, blocks, etc. I felt that this was done in a very well organized fashion and the photographs and accompanying text adequately explained the basics of each technique. I did feel that in some cases more detailed text would have been appropriate, but it wasn't that much of a factor for the most part.
   
   The author is a noted kobudo and karate master and every book I have by him on the traditional kobudo weapons has simply been outstanding. I would recommend this book.
   
   Shawn Kovacich
   Martial Artist/Author of the Achieving Kicking Excellence series.



3. I recently received this book and it is the best martial arts book I have ever read. It had a plethora of pictures and clear writing. Most importantly it thoroughly covered the basics such as hand position, basic strikes, and basic blocks. The kata in the end left a little to be desired, but I could find no other flaws in the book. I would highly recommend this book to anyone and I plan on buying Fumio Demura's other books on weapon fighting now.



4. My brother has the first (original) publishing of this book. When we were kids, we self-taught ourselves martial arts weapons. In the 1970s and 1980s most Karate, Tae Kwon Do schools did not teach weapons unless you reached brown, red, or black belt. So we bought this book to teach ourselves. Although I specialized in the nunchuckau, my brother loved the staff.
   
   Fumio Demura is a karate legend. His books are easy to follow and understand. This is a MUST HAVE book if you are learning the Staff, Kwon, or Bo. And everyone should learn how to use a staff.... lots of the techiniques can be used whether you have a staff, broom stick, mop, long umbrella, or cane.
   
   I bought this book again to teach my daughters. Get the book over the DVD. We bought both, because I thought the DVD would help more. But the DVD doesn't do justice for the student.



5. This is my second book I have purchased from this author. I had trouble figuring out maybe 1-2 techniques at first, out of the entire book, based on the images provided. Otherwise, everything else was easy to follow. It seems like he covers most if not all the Bo moves on defense and offense. Any techniques that are not in this book would be more along the lines of fancy Bo work because he seems to cover all the steps.

5 comments about The Fencing Master.

1. This was the first Arturo Perez-Reverte I ever read -- and I firmly hold it to account for my ongoing interest and respect for this fabulous author. In this earlier work of his, we see all the trademarks of the APR style: an unabashed fascination for the foil and dust world of 19th Century Spain, it's heroics and its royal uncertainties. APR has an extraordinary capacity to recreate the past -- perhaps not a 'past' that the academic historian would like to see -- but a past that appeals to the lingering romantic in some of us.
   
   APR loves chess, fencing, Latin, esoteric Catholicism, good cigars, fourth vow Jesuits, and outmoded virtues . . . this list should give you a sense of where his sympathies lie. If you share them, then you'll love his work.
   
   _The Fencing Master_ is, above all, a character study, however. In describing Don Jaime, the archetypal man at odds with the changing values of his time, APR summons up a bold portrait of chivalry in decline. But his style goes much deeper than mere whimsy. APR, undoubtedly, possesses the sort of keen insight and probing powers of observation that all great mystery writers possess. Using these talents, he pulls together a most engrossing world in which foils clash, pride gets rattled, and the coffee always comes with witty conversation.
   
   This book, certainly, will not rank among his best in terms of plot. Both _The Club Dumas_ and _The Flanders Panel_ contain far more ingenious plots, evidentiary structures, and incredible narrative devices. _The Fencing Master_ does not have much in the way of stylistic tricks. But, in Don Jaime, APR presents an intense vision of modesty and nobility that beat beneath a dented plastron. In terms of dialogue and psychology, the book rewards immensely (thanks to a great translation) with some rich turns of phrase and potent reflection on a dying art. As such, the book above all presents a lament for a decline in concentration and dedication in favor of shallow trends.
   
   "God is inconsistent and irresponsible. I have no use for Him. He is not a gentlemen."
   
   The highest praise I can give could only be that, over an iced coffee, I polished this book off at a local Greek-run cafe in the span of a perfectly summer afternoon. Whenever the local constable sparked his cigar, I had to have one as well. Whenever Don Jaime kept to his anachronistic principles, I felt like one day I needed to recover my own. In short, the book led me into a different world for a few hours. Now that's some spectacular adventure writing.
   
   As I said, not his best -- but hands down beats all the crap out there like Stephenie Meyer (sp), Da Vinci Code, etc, etc. What a cruel world we live in when such authors sell millions. Don Jaime, however, would hardly be surprised.



2. This was the first Perez-Reverte book I have read, and I was very disappointed. I have heard him referred to as the modern day Dumas by multiple reviewers. He comes nowhere near earning that title, at least with this book. Perhaps his other books are better, as previous reviewers have suggested, but this book was downright mediocre at best, and boring and poorly executed at worst.
   
   Perez-Reverte's major blunder is his obsession with character sympathy and believability. Don't get me wrong, I am all about things being believable if possible, but being believable should never be one's focus. He spends such a ridiculous amount of space giving us psychological insight into Don Jaime that it is blatantly obvious that he is trying to explain why he does all the things he does. This would already have been bad, but the fact that Don Jaime is a very annoying character to read about makes it unbearable. As a previous review has said, Don Jaime is a "bumbling, clueless idiot." A simple page describing his psychological motivations would have been entirely sufficient, but instead we get something in the vicinity of 25 pages (not all in one place, of course). As another previous reviewer noted, the book is "populated with believable characters." The problem is that their believability is forced; it is something that was obviously purposefully done, and because of that it feels even more unbelievable than the "unmodern" characters of classical fiction. There is one exception to this: the antagonist. For all the effort put into the other characters, the antagonist is the most cardboard-cutoutish character I have come across in some time.
   
   Perez-Reverte is missing a vital component to joining the ranks of the great swashbucklers like Dumas: naturalness. Dumas' novels and characters flow naturally. Perez-Reverte is obviously obsessed with creating believable characters and a main character people will remember and respect. Yes, we understand that Don Jaime is a relic of a past age. We don't need to hear it repeated on every other page. He has lost sight of the story in his obsession with the individual character, and it makes both story and characters boring.
   
   This makes me think that it is far more comparable to a character study in the manner of Jane Austin than a Dumas novel, but the cover explicitly advertises it as an action/suspense book. The "suspense" doesn't come in until toward the very end, and the "action" consists of two short sword-fights (unless one counts practicing fencing as "action"). It was compared by a previous reviewer to Don Quixote. However, it fails to suceed in any of the three categories I mentioned: it has too little action or adventure for a Dumas comparison, it is not nearly witty or profound enough to be compared to Austin, and there is no humour. It fails as historical fiction because the only history contained in it is found in randomly inserted conversations about the politics of the Spanish revolution (and he gives no background, so the reader can't really follow it very well).
   
   Let me summarize what the book actually consists of. There are four parts. First, there are lengthy descriptions of the psychological motivations of Don Jaime and a few other characters. Second, there are numerous political conversations largely unrelated to the plot. Third, there are lengthy descriptions of Don Jaime's daily life, which are about as exciting as describing any normal persons daily life (because the author was trying to surround him with "believability"). Finally, there is a brief "suspense" section at the very end, with a "surprise" plot twist that the reader guesses about 30 pages into the book (if not sooner). The fact that the author presents it as a huge surprise is simply insulting.
   
   One final note. Was it really necessary for Perez-Reverte to include a romantic sub-plot between Don Jaime (who is in his late 50's) and a woman in her young 20's? Really?
   
   Overall grade: D



3. Review of "The Fencing Master" -- Arturo Perez-Reverte
   
   Background abstract from the text: "In Madrid in 1868, fencing master and man of honor Don Jaime is approached by a mysterious woman who seeks to learn the secret of the unstoppable thrust, an arcane technique known only to him. All too soon he finds himself in the vortex of a plot that includes seduction, secret political documents, and more than one murder. Rich with the historical detail of a decaying world that agonizes--as does the world of fencing itself--over the ideals of honor and chivalry, The Fencing Master is superb literature and a true page-turner."
   
   This is the second Perez-Reverte book I've read and I have to admit I really like his intelligent style of writing. I found the first half of the book to open very slowly building the back-story for the protagonist (Don Jaime Astarloa) and potential love interest with Adele De Otero who insistently pleads with him to teach her the fencing secret he perfected; "the unstoppable thrust."
   
   *Spoiler here* The second half of the book quickly builds suspense and intrigue ending with a shocking conclusion. The final part of the story ends with Don Jaime discovering that Adele was acting as the agent of espionage for powerful economic interests. She attempts to kill her Maestro with the same fencing thrust maneuver she learned from him but with which he executes with the skill of "The Fencing Master" leading to her demise (with the thrust through her eye socket).
   
   Well done and rife with a vivid historical backdrop and references. Five stars.
   
   JP



4. This is my first time reading this author. I really enjoyed the book. I was most impressed with how the author was able to create a certain depth of character so that it became more than just an action novel. The insights given on the main character made the ending so much more poignant. His meetings with his friends could be somewhat compared to a kind of Greek chorus commenting on the state of Spain at the time.I feel that the author is writing for the mass market so what might be somewhat more detailed in a weighter novel is not found here. It also is possible that is why some readers' comments on other of his novels show some disappointment.



5. Although the ending to this novel seems rushed,in my opinion, the build up to the final confrontation was cleverly done and left the reader with no clue until near the end who the prime subjects really were,though the final fencing pair were obvious. The author clearly understood the art of fencing. The cafe scenes could have been more political and the hero surprisingly naive for his advanced years. All told,a good read and hard to put down.

5 comments about Foiled.

1. I thought Foiled was pretty cool. It's a graphic novel that brings a typical high school story (a girl likes a boy whose good looking and she doesn't feel like she fits in) fantasy and fencing together into a promising story. (I'm assuming-hoping- there's going to be more.) The story definitely shows promise and the illustrations are great. I liked the fencing in the story; I know nothing about the sport so I thought it was an interesting educational experience. Lastly, anyone who likes a strong-willed heroine should find that Aliera fits the description. I recommend that anyone who enjoys fantasy pick up Foiled and read it. Review by R.C.; 16 yrs, [...]
   
   I thought Foiled was a neat graphic novel. Hopefully, Aliera's story will continue soon so I can read more. The story is interesting and short enough that you can read it in an hour or so. If you're like me you will probably be unable to put it down and read it in one sitting. The illustrations are great and I liked the change from black and white to color; to me that made the story pop out more. I recommend this graphic novel to anyone who enjoys fantasy, humor and graphic novels. Review by N.C.; 16 yrs, [...]



2. This is a quick read, and is pretty entertaining, but not very substantive. I loved the imaginative illustrations, and I thought it was a nice touch that when the story took a turn, color entered the pages. I liked the character of Aliera very much--definitely a well-written girl hero. I have to say though, that this story didn't have much in terms of adventure or major events. But as a beginning to a series, I think it does a nice job of giving the reader the background and setting the scene for further adventures. I don't think I'd recommend this for kids any younger than 12 or 13, as some of the thematic elements are a little mature for younger readers.



3. Aliera Carstairs' life is a series of routines: school and fencing practice during the week, fencing practice and gaming with her cousin Caroline on the weekends. She doesn't expect or, rather, doesn't dare hope for more than that. Until Avery Castle shows up at school--"Prince Charming all the way." She tries not to fall for him, but can't seem to help herself, and when he asks her on a date, it seems too good to be true. It's on their date, in Grand Central Station, that Aliera puts on her fencing mask and suddenly the world is a very different place, a world where Aliera just might be...important.
   
   Just as Mike Carey, Marc Hempel, and Sonny Liew did with their terrific Re-Gifters (Minx), Yolen and Cavallaro take a girl who plays a tough sport and tell the story of a cute boy who throws her off her game. In both books, though, the girl finds the inner strength to be more than just boy-crazed. She focuses her energies just as she's been taught in her sport and emerges from her experience a champion. The difference is that Foiled is written by Jane Yolen, one of the grande dames of fantasy. So Aliera's experience isn't something that can be completely contained by the world we know. This is not immediately evident, though. The strong part of Foiled is that Yolen takes her time to set up who Aliera is. She's the narrator, so we are given a clear look inside her head. By the time things go sideways, we're as baffled and intrigued as she is. It takes a strong, feisty main character to engage an audience like that and Aliera is both, though it takes some convincing before she realizes it.
   
   The secondary characters are mostly relegated to the sidelines in this tale, which seems to be the first of a potential series. But two of them stand out in their own way. One is Avery, the handsome young man. Like Aliera, we aren't sure whether or not to trust him or believe him. By turns creepy and gorgeous, he is a young man of contradictions. It isn't until Aliera begins to find her feet on her own that Avery begins to show his true colors. Caroline is the other interesting character. She's confined to a wheelchair with rheumatoid arthritis, but her upbeat personality is part of what Aliera respects about her. The two play role-playing games together, an element that seems likely to crop up in any later stories about Aliera.
   
   
   At first glance, the art seems dull and uninspired. The simple grayish teal color selection is so bland that readers might wonder at first why Cavallaro didn't choose a brighter or more dramatic palette. But there is a reason and once it is revealed the whole package of the book clicks together perfectly. Cavallaro knows just how to draw ordinary teenage girls and good-looking teenage boys and he's obviously done a lot of research in order to get the fencing moves correct. First Second has done a beautiful production job on this book, a fitting finish for a fine work. Give this one to the quiet teen girl voraciously reading urban fantasy.
   -- Snow Wildsmith



4. Reason for Reading: Jane Yolen is a wonderful author, so versatile! though I am partial to her mythological/folk tales works. Seeing that she had written a graphic novel I was so excited to read this.
   
   Aliera Carstairs is a loner who doesn't fit in at school with any of the cliques; she doesn't even stand out enough to get picked on by anybody. She's rather a broody thing but she does have one passion and that is fencing. Everyday after school she goes to fencing class and is told she is very good and can go "far", which means The Nationals. Aliera has a rather strange practice fencing foil that her mother picked up for her at a Chinese lady's tag sale for $2. Not your typical foil, this one has a great big fake jewel wonder glued (she's tried to remove it) stuck to the end of the handle. Whatever, fencing is an expensive sport.
   
   Aliera is colourblind and the majority of the book has been drawn and coloured in black,white,and various greys going up to a bluish tint. This not only shows Aliera's colourless world but also her broody attitude. Aliera does have a secret dream, she plays this out in her imagination when she is fencing and when she plays RPG with her wheelchair bound cousin, it is here she becomes Xenda of Xenon, expert swordswoman.
   
   Imagination meets reality when Aliera puts her fencing mask on in the subway and suddenly she can see colour but not from our world, from the world which lives parallel to ours which is full of fairies, dragons, strange creatures and dragons and a queen who tells her she is a Defender of her world and gives her her first mission.
   
   I loved Foiled! The story within the book is completed and finalized by there are many hanging threads and an obvious ending to let the reader know there will be another book, perhaps even a series. Aliera is a great main character, one that is easy to relate to. She is somewhat shy (though I'd really just say she's quiet). She stays out of everyone's way but thinks a lot. She's got some great comeback's and oneliners in her thoughts. But push her too far and she'll let loose like nobodies business and tell you exactly what she thinks. Aliera is not to be messed around with. She may be broody a good part of the time but she is also bold and brave and the one that can be counted on in an emergency. A delightful book, which more than met my expectations. Certainly looking forward to the next one! Recommended!



5. Aliera's life revolves around one thing: fencing. Practically ignored at school and way better than her fencing classmates, she doesn't have a lot of friends. With the possibility of making it to fencing nationals, this doesn't bother her. Some excitement might be nice, but she's also got plenty of distraction in her new lab partner, Chris. Little does she know that when a new practice foil with a red ruby makes its way into her life, Aliera's about to get a little more excitement than she bargained for.
   
   My first impression was that, for a graphic novel printed in full color, the artwork had too many gray tones, but this does eventually play a part in the storyline. The look at fencing is very interesting, although the effect of Aliera's fencing skills on the overall story arc wasn't tied in until the very end. The plot isn't particularly fast paced or engaging until the final third of the book. And by that point, the resolution itself gets wrapped up just a little too quickly. It's a little disappointing, but hopefully a sequel will be published to wrap up some of those loose ends.
   
   Reviewed by Alyssa Feller

5 comments about Modern Arnis: The Filipino Art of Stick Fighting.

1. This is a good introduction to the system. It is unfortunate that master martial artists have not worked with professional writers to produce detailed volumes chronicling their systems. This, like most works of its kind- leaves the advanced student wishing MORE had been written.
   
   The book will be informative to the beginner of Modern Arnis and a source of fond nostalgia for advanced students who know that this great man taught us all so much MORE than the pages of this book contain.
   Filipino Combat Systems: An Introduction to An Ancient Art For Modern Times



2. Contains all the basics you need to start learning the art.
   
   Classic book!



3. Having trained in Filipino Kali many years ago I was looking for a book that could re-introduce me to this martial art. Although this book covers more then just stick fighting, I found this book to be a fine introduction to stick fighting essentials. The book does not get too intricate or technical, which I think is a good thing in any martial art book since the effectiveness of the more complex movements is founded upon the mastery of the simple basics. Also, in a real world situation it is always best to stick with the fundamentals. So one must master the basics first and Presas shows his mastery of this superb Filipino martial art (Arnis) with his ability to bring it up to date in a system he founded called Modern Arnis (which as I understand it is pretty much a combination of Shotokan karate, Filipino stick fighting (Kali) and judo). The book gives excellent basic instruction and begins with preparatory warm up and stretching exercises, then goes into the proper way to hold the baton. It further goes into basic stances, striking zones, sticking defenses, basic hand to hand combat, flow patterns and weaving using either sticks or empty hands, stick disarming techniques, and then ends with sword disarming techniques using sticks. As I said I liked the book because it stuck with the no nonsense basics and in my opinion that's the first thing that must be mastered in any martial art.



4. "Modern Arnis", by Remy Presas, presents compact flowing Arnis in a compact flowing book. It has very clear photos and prose -- precisely ordered on macro and micro scales -- from over-all patterns to small details -- from chapter to chapter. The angles of the moves, for each move-set, are some of the best I have seen of any defense/combative art.
   
   If, the essence of defense is to turn opposition [of opponents] away, down and out -- removing foes'-balance while keeping self-balance -- until "check-mate". Then, "Modern Arnis" shows how to do this -- in a streamlined way. Many move-sets end with the foe in check -- yet the final position [and the foe] could be easily extended in various directions. So, Remy Presas shuts-down foes' options while keeping his options open.
   
   I first learned a little Modern Arnis as part of an [informal] Kenpo Jiu-Jitsu off-shoot of Kosho-Ryu Kempo. My own small and casual Kenpo off-shoot of that lineage, like many others out of Hawaii, adds bits of other Arts with Kenpo. Core Kenpo Jiu-Jitsu inspired by -- a little Tibetan White Crane, Isshinryu Karate and Jiu Jitsu Complete and some Medieval Fencing, Savate and Boxing into "anti-grappling". We seem to search for ways to combine these aspects in a smooth, compact, and effective way.
   
   When going over all of my experience and tendency recently, I realized that Modern Arnis had worked-on and solved this kind of streamlined-combination spot-on. In "Modern Arnis" [this book], as well as in other Modern Arnis works, Remy Presas shows how to combine various Arnis Arts with some Judo, Karate, Jiujitsu, and Kenpo, into Modern Arnis -- Keeping In The Flow +++



5. I have been fortunate to have attended several Modern Arnis seminars with the late Remy Presas. He was a man of extraordinary skill. I had taken some Filipino stick and knife fighting lessons in the past from some other Filipino experts, and Mr. Presas's book helped to clarify the skills I learned with a hands-on instructor. This volume explains the basic principles and techniques of using the Arnis Stick in a wide variety of ways. In conclusion, this book used in combination with hands-on training with an Arnis instructor is the key to mastering this art, Rating: 4 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Hanbo-Jutsu Official Course Manual Bushi Satori Ryu, Yawara Stick Techniques, Univ. of IL Press, PR-24 Police Baton Techniques: Basic and Advanced Techniques, Univ. of IL Press, PR-24 Police Baton Advanced Techniques).

5 comments about Essence of Ninjutsu.

1. This is probably the first book to faithfully reveal Hatsumi-sensei's approach to writing. In some of Soke's other works, the translation and editing have in many ways dampened the total effect of Soke's words. Not so in this book. The translator has done a superb job in capturing Soke's feeling in the written form. And he has done so by simply removing himself from the equation and instead has allowed Soke's words to do all the work.
   
   Throughout this book, the reader ought to be able to sense the depth of the art that Hatsumi-sensei is master of. The richness of the traditions and the scope of the moral and ethical development possible through an honest approach to martial arts is clearly in evidence. This has nothing to do with 'Oriental mysticism' nor has it anything to do with techniques in the technical sense. Yet, if one has the eyes to see, the mystical is simply honesty and the secrets to the techniques stem from this. In this book, both are more than visible.
   
   Through stories of his own teacher (beautifully presented as fables and legends) as well his own experiences, one gets the sense that Hatsumi-sensei has just surpassed a personal barrier of sorts. There is a sense of confidence that emerges from the words and one can only feel inspired to emulate the development displayed.
   
   This book is not, as should be expected from Hatsumi-sensei, a chronologically organised tome. Stepping away from the 1-2-3 approach to learning, Soke's words are imbued with character and observation and in that sense, one ought to hesitate to use the word 'topic' when describing each chapter. Perhaps 'situations' may be a better term.
   
   From history to warnings, from martial movement to moral awareness, this book, quite literally, has it all. Hidden in plain sight as it is, the information in this book serves as an excellent screener (as well as screening device) for those wishing to understand more of the art of Hatsumi-sensei. As an honest approach to the world of ninjutsu and the martial arts, this book is an absolute must.



2. This book is a very interesting dive into the realm of Ninjutsu, though, if not a member of the Bujinkan yourself, although the techniques seem straight forward at first, I urge you not to try them. I practiced a martial art outside of Ninjutsu when I read this book, and although the concepts of the moves seemed easy enough, they are dangerous to practice without the control and taijutsu that you learn from the Bujinkan. That said, if you are in the Bujinkan, you must own this.



3. Like the title states,"Essence of ninjutsu" not 101 ways to inflict ninjaesque damage.It's a thinking person's reader about ninjutsu and about where the author feels and believes it all comes from.The stories about his sensei's life and teaching style are very cool in my opinion.One must really take the time to READ the book though,Hatsumi sensei stress's over and over that a person must be able to read between the lines of this book and on life.He's right we should.



4. Essence of ninjutsu is the most authentic ninjutsu book on the market. It is the
   direct kuden transmission of Soke Masaaki Hatsumi about his teacher Toshitsugu
   Takamatsu. There is even knowledege about Momochu Sandayu in here!



5. As a learning artist of bujinkan Taijutsu, I thought the book would be help in deepening my understanding of the art. While it did indeed do this I also feel like Hatsumi sensei tells of ways to live a rightous and healthy life. I am only 8th kyu but I know that as I learn more and will revisit the book. For anyone who is willing to search for truth in martial art beyond combat, Essence of Ninjutsu shows the real reason why we train.

5 comments about The Beginner's Guide to the Long Sword: European Martial Arts Weaponry Techniques.

1. I have known the author Steaphen Fick for nearly two decades as our common passion for historical reenactment caused our paths to cross back in 1991. In that time I have witnessed this sword masters journey through the many realms of European martial combat styles from the dainty small sword to full armored combat. I have been in a privileged position to watch his mastery of the many weapons and styles of the sword masters of old grow steadily over the years. Today his expertise in the use of weapons in both combat and tournament ranges many centuries from the early middle ages to the late renaissance and beyond. I have studied under several teachers and experienced armed combat in many reenactment and tournament circles over the years; I can say without a doubt that the teachings I received from Master Fick have served me better than all others combined.
   
   John Arnold
   Sword Scholar, historical enactor, and author



2. I've known Steaphen for 20 years now, he was the first person I ever fought live steel with. He's learned a lot since those days of armoured combat, and I am quite proud of what he has done with himself - a master swordsman and a teacher. . . I've had the pleasure of watching him teach, and he really has a way of making his students feel comfortable. . .
   This book is a great example of his teaching style. . . not so complex as to be hard to understand, while still giving the reader a solid basic instruction. If you've ever watched a Swords-and-Sorcery type movie and wondered "How'd they do that," Steaphen's book is a good place to start.
   
   My name is James Shaffer, and I approved this message.



3. The book is appropriately titled and therefore, for those indivduals who have no experience in the world of historical fencing and historical martial arts, and who do not wish to delve into the extreme subtleties of any form of historical fighting arts - a "reader's digest" of the art of longsword fencing, this book is for you. For novice practitioners, the book is useful as a review of the fundamentals, important if one intends to "test" at their particular training school or academy. For instructors of historical fencing, this book may offer some new ideas in the approach to instructing their students and therefore, a useful resource in that regard.
   
   The book does not focus on any one particular style of longsword fencing, but does cover the basics, with an excellent presentation on the longsword, its parts and its characteristics. Important information that all novices must internalize, regardless of fighting style studied. Steaphen then moves into combative foundations of posture and lines of attack. He also delves briefly into concepts of movement, measure, distance and tempo - concepts that both novice and experienced practitioners must know well. Steaphen also makes a point of ensuring the reader understands the importance of footwork, the very foundation of all fighting systems. This concept is explained with a series of intuitive images and illustrations aptly describing the basic of the foundations of footwork.
   
   After detailing the basics, he begins the various guard positions, interestingly sourcing the names and the positions from the Italian style documented by the Italian swordsmaster Fiore dei Liberi in 1410. The treatise used as the source was entitled "Fiore di Battaglia". These guards or "poste" are described with plenty of text accompanied with black & white photos which clearly depict the guards described. This section of the book continues with a presentation on a number of simple drills, each drill focused on some specific attribute, such as a drill designed to highlight distance or tempo or parrying.
   
   The book concludes with a good description of appropriate equipment to acquire should one decide to pursue longsword fencing, regardless of the style considered. Suggestions for hand protection include leather gauntlets or hockey gloves or lacrosse gloves, although, it is the opinion of the reviewer that hockey or lacrosses gloves are too bulky to train with, and may introduce training artifacts. The book closes with a basic glossary of terms, useful for the individual who may be considering beginning their journey into the study and training of historical fencing.



4. Poorly written, filed with photos of three guys who look like they just climbed out of bed. If your interested in the subject buy Christian Henry Toblers book "Fighting with the German Longsword".



5. The coverage of this book reminds me of my first four class introduction to (German) longsword combat at the Higgins Armory, condensed to book form for the Italian Style. I assume that is what Stephen Fick has done here, and based on his class work. I picked this book up for a less expensive look at some of the basics of the Italian style to complement the studies into the German style that I have participated in at Sword in the Scroll in Connecticut. I got a look at the Italian guards, cutting style, some drills and Italian theory.
   
   There is a good amount of discussion about the theory and underlying basics of longsword, such has time and foot work. This is a good and often forgotten part if introducing the sword. I don't agree with all of his assertions, for example where to look, but nothing came out as horribly bad.
   
   The book is not with out problems. The photos have been mentioned by another reviewer. They seem to be two students or assistant instructors grabbed before or after class for quick shots before a wall (NBA sweats, really?). The wall contrast is good, but the models do not look professional. More importantly, in my 2009 printing the photos of two different guards (posta di donna & posta falcone) are duplicated. Also the posta di donna sinestra photograph is described in the text as incorrect. A reshot even if slightly inconsistent photograph would be preferable. Finally, there is an entire chapter concerning gripping the blade. However the pictures of the demonstrators do not show the same hand grips as the close ups.
   
   The Appendixes, are also problematic. Appendix A Head & Face Protection. "You must wear full head and face protection during any sword drill involving another person." Really? Why do none of the pictures in the entire book have a demonstrator wearing face protection? Nor wearing gorgets nor gloves. Some sort of explanation would have been nice. Appendix B discusses types of practice weapons. It gives the majority of space to steel swords, but I think short shrifts wooden practice swords with only one paragraph. This is the least expensive option and the way most beginners start. A high quality pair starts at $120+ while quality steel swords are several hundred each.
   
   For the established practitioner the book is of interest for how another views the art. I would have liked to see more references to differentiate what comes from Fick's experence and what come form the manuals. However I understand that this is an basic beginners book and is beyond its scope.
   
   If you are a beginner, you best option, which the author also states, is to join an established group. If you cannot find one in your area, then at a $17 MSRP this is not a bad book to get a taste of longsword. You'll need at least one friend, and one of you should read through the entire book before you start. (At 144 pages with pictures it goes fast) While there is a logic to the layout, some important information about cutting does not come until late in the book. If you enjoy these basics then you can explore further some of the more in depth books that are available.

5 comments about Practice Drills for Japanese Swordsmanship.

1. I have found this book to be a very useful tool in developing training drills and improving our basic techniques. The diagrams are easy to follow and textual information clear. Well worth having in the library.



2. I received the book in a timely manner and in new condition. I didn't expect that it would be printed with stick people. I find it difficult to follow but I'll figure it out.



3. This book had basic moves which is good, but never went into further detail. The illustrations were stick figures from a side view; there was no way to infer anything from them. I would not have gotten this book for my son if I had known the "true" lack of knowledge it contained.



4. Really good book. Helpful since i learn Kendo in Chinese and don't get much explanation for the moves. To be honest though, you really can't practice at home. You really have to go to class.



5. There is a reviewer that doesn't like this book because it has drawings instead of pictures.
   It is true what he says about the drawings, they are small and do not convey the movements of
   Iaido very well. However, the point about needing to practice the basics comes through load
   and clear. Finding a good teacher is also essential to learning how to handle a true Samurai
   sword.
   
   The book is not trying to be anything more than a companion to training and to the importance
   of practicing the basics. Sensei Nicklaus has written a fine book that, anyone wanting to someday
   Master the Art of the Sword, should add to their library. It's a good introduction until you
   can find a good teacher.
   
   Sensei Nicklaus style is Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu Iaido, the same style that I have just started
   however, the drills in this book pertains to any style. I give this book four stars because
   of those drawings but use the practice drills as often as possible.

1 comments about The Adventures of "John Carter on Mars" - the Original Five Stories.

1. The Burroughs series is a classic and it was a genuine joy to read it in Ebook format -

5 comments about Over My Dead Body.

1. Over My Dead Body is the seventh in the Nero Wolfe series. A young lady claiming to be Wolfe's adopted daughter from Yugoslavia asks for his help with a charge of stealing diamonds but this quickly evolves into a situation where she is suspected of murder. The case frustrates Wolfe no end, it gets more complicated all the while, but of course he manages to uncover the solution by the end of the story.
   
   This book is a prime example of a Nero Wolfe novel. Archie Goodwin is in top form as a wise cracking pain-in-the-neck. Inspector Cramer is present more than a lot of stories giving Goodwin plenty of opportunities for zingers besides the ones he routinely fires at Wolfe. Wolfe himself is definitely out of his comfort zone dealing with the situation of his adopted daughter and this also adds to the potential for laughs.
   
   This is a very entertaining book and I would recommend it for readers unfamiliar with Nero Wolfe as a great place to start or for established fans.



2. One morning in 1939 a young woman appeared at the brownstone, seeking Nero Wolfe. Archie Goodwin was hopeful that the meeting would lead to a case but he never expected the surprises that would soon follow for shortly after Wolfe entered the office the young woman proclaimed herself to be Wolfe's long lost daughter. As if that statement was not shocking enough Archie was further stunned when Wolfe acknowledged that she could very well be his missing child. After these stunning revelations the dead bodies, semi clad women, horde of NYPD detectives and persistent FBI agents are almost anti climatic.
   
   Fans of the Nero Wolfe series will not want to miss this introduction to Wolfe's daughter (she also figures in THE BLACK MOUNTAIN) and learn a bit more about Wolfe's mysterious past. Those who are new to the series could begin with this one, even though it is the seventh in the series. Archie is at his devious best in this one as he manages to stay one step ahead of both the police and the FBI in this one.
   
   Serious Wolfe fans might be able to catch Wolfe in a lie to the FBI if they read carefully....happy hunting!



3. It is all about wise-cracking by Wolfe's protege/assistant Archie Goodwin. I am not at all impressed, may be it shouldn't be the first book to start with but... I wouldn't buy another book by this author in the near future!!! Trash....



4. "...Wolfe sipped the last drop of his luncheon coffee, put down his cup, and made two distinct and separate oral noises. The first was meant to express his pleasure and satisfaction in the immediate past, the hour spent at table; the second was a grunt of resigned dismay at the prospect of the immediate future, which was embodied in the bulky figure of Inspector Cramer..."
   
   Well, they just don't write like that anymore. If you're like me, you'll read with Webster's on hand as Wolfe and his assistant Goodwin carry on their 'persiflage' amidst the current investigation. Wolfe calls for his beer, his leftover roast duck, his orchid files, and all of his witnesses because he doesn't take walk-ins, he won't suffer fools, and he never leaves his house.
   
   This was my first pass at the Rex Stout mystery library, and I'm definitely signing on for more!



5. Formatted nicely for the Kindle, this is one of the classic Nero Wolfe stories, written when Rex Stout was in his prime. A girl comes to his office seeking help for her friend accused of stealing some diamonds from a clients coat at the fencing studio where the girls work. But what starts as a simple case of forgotten diamonds ends in international intrigue and the appearance of Wolfe's daughter.
   
   Please, more Nero Wolfe for the Kindle!