5 comments about The Book of Five Rings (The Way of the Warrior Series).

1. I bought it for my boyfriend as a birthday gift. I ended up reading it too because he talk so great about it. I thought it was a great book and very well written. i enjoyed it very much and my boyfriend was very happy with it we plan on buying more books like this one.



2. Written in the 1600s by one of the great Samurais in history Musashi puts forth his ideas on sword fighting combat and life. I found this interesting. While the ideas are obviously geared toward sword fighting some with a slight alteration could apply to other martial arts/fighting sports. I'll leave the all the overly contemplative philosophical musings on this book to all the Zen Buddhists out there. There was also some good biographical stuff and artwork by him in this too.



3. I've read three translations of this book thus far. One was terrible, one was excellent and this one is a good translation and a very good quality production.
   
   Unfortunately nearly every page is littered with pictures of flowers and sickles (and what appear at times to be snowflakes) behind the print. For me these images are very distracting.
   
   I give it four stars despite the images.



4. In order to appreciate this book, as I do, you will need to look underneath the surface. In "Thought Leadership" of a given domain of expertise one must make one's case, and do so fairly if one is to be respected.
   
   However there have been times in my own career where I have had to defend a position against multiple attackers. In one debate I once was required to have to deal with 6 different people simultaneously who were rather vicious in their attack upon me. In advanced Aikido techniques, they also teach students how to deal with multiple attackers. When having to do mental jiu-jitsu's moves in verbal argument go to the source of combative technique, read "The Book of Five Rings.



5. Great book. Teaches us a lot about life and doing business like you are a samuri.

5 comments about Ultimate Warrior Workouts (Training for Warriors): Fitness Secrets of the Martial Arts.

1. Martin Rooney did a fantastic job with 'Ultimate Warrior Workouts.' It is very detailed, concise, and easy to follow. If after reading this book you do not want to get up and go workout...you just may want to find another hobby! Martin, the picture of you and your 3 daughters is truly priceless; they already have that 'warrior look' in their eyes, I love it, well done my friend!



2. I am a huge fan of Martin Rooney's first book, so I recently decided to pick this one up along with Andre Galvao's Drill to Win and Law's Falling Hard. Upon mail day, it was a good day to be a grappling fan!!!
   
   My favorite sections of this book are the areas where Martin covers his trips to Gracie Barra Brazil and the Kodokan for judo. The movements change depending on the region and martial art that Martin is covering, but I think all of them should be combined (as they are later) to make an awesome workout. The tire stance training for Muay Thai looks so authentic and rugged!
   
   My only complaint is that I would have liked to see even more martial arts! My experience was over too quickly and I would have loved to see more more more!



3. Easy people, hoppin on the wagon here over a simple little book. He went to several places around the world that practiced popular martial arts and then reported on some of the more "unique" training they do. There is nothing ground breaking here, it's got a nice little intro to each art which was short but informative. The hype over how many pushups you can do ready...set...go... aw you're not a warrior, better luck next time.... is a ridiculous gimic. I'm sure Rooney had fun visiting these places as anyone would and now he's getting paid for sitting down for a day or two to throw this book together, Nice, good for him!! However, you will learn more visiting other Dojo's and learning from them then you will from this book. Nice pictures though!



4. Whether you are a martial artist, athlete or fitness enthusiast, this book will provide exercises and fitness information to take your training to the next level. As a trainer of athletes, I have successfully used the exercises and workouts from both of Mr. Rooney's books. In Ultimate Warrior Workouts, Mr. Rooney offers the reader hundreds of new exercises, a full diet plan and workout, but what I really am enjoying is using the new Warrior Challenges he included in each chapter. These are physical challenges in which you can score yourself or your clients according to the table contained in the back of the book. As a former Div. 1 athlete, I consider myself still in great condition, but was humbled by a number of these tests. Now I am more motivated and have a new style of training to add to my own program. As fitness books go, this book is above the rest of those I own in terms of quality color photography and the sheer amount of content. At almost 400 pages, this book is literally an exercise encyclopedia including techniques ranging from bodyweight to partner training to exercise based drills. I have recommended this book to my friends and clients and do so for you now.



5. This book is a refreshing change from the current list of books in this genre. Instead of being a "martial arts technique" book, this book highlights the history and training behind numerous martial arts of the world. The book offers detailed pictures and descriptions of hundreds of exercises and the overall layout is professional. As a Fencer, I was interested to learn about the different martial arts, but pleasantly surprised to see that the workouts will benefit me for my sport. The nutrition section and sample diet are also nice additions and something that will be of great use to me as well. I believe there are going to be many students of combat that are going to be enlightened by this book. Highly recommended!

5 comments about Got Fight?: The 50 Zen Principles of Hand-to-Face Combat.

1. This book is absolutely hilarious! Don't think that because its written by a UFC fighter that it is a book about fighting. It's not, its about very weird ideas and stories of Forrest Griffin that will make you laugh out loud that you'll fall off your seat. I am not exaggerating. I remember when I was reading this book in public by myself I used to laugh and giggle that people around me thought I am a freak :) I didn't care really because if they knew how funny and vulgar the jokes were they would have understood!
   
   Whether you're into MMA or not, you won't go wrong reading this book. There's not much to learn really, except some of the good Jiu Jitsu techniques given at the end, however the jokes you will get and the fun you will experience from reading this book is totally worth buying it.
   
   I highly recommend it!



2. This is a great great book! You won't be able to put it down!!! A True Warrior heart talking on and teaching how to become a True Warrior both in life and in the ring! Not only that but funny as all hell! Forrest is a real character! This book also comes loaded with great excerpt commentaries from other fighters and characters! Man it's been a while since I've read a book, an entertaining book and an instructional/teaching book like this! The fight skills teaching and knowledge's are very informative and educational as well! Forrest I don't give a hoot if you can or can't pound me because if you don't write part 2 and 3 very soon I'm going to have to become a dog and come gnawing and biting at your ankles until you do! Many need to learn how to develop that True Warriors heart mate!! Keep being a legend!!!



3. More of a "laugh your ass off" book than a book about MMA. Check it out for a fun read.



4. This book will keeping laughing from cover to cover... At the same time you will truly learn why Forrest is such an amazing fighter and the true Heart he has... Great book... stop reading this and buy it... you wont regret!



5. This is by far the most hilarious "biography" (it's more a series of ramblings) that I've ever read. I haven't read a book "for fun" in over a year (I've read numerous text books) and forgot how great it could be. Get this book, you will not regret it.

5 comments about Jiu-Jitsu University.

1. Wonderfully well thought out. This is not the average book of submissons, instead this book focuses on movement and escapes which finally make a lock or choke possible. Worth the money to those who already have a handle on basic jiu jitsu.



2. Saulo has done a great job in creating a book that makes sense in how it is presented. Unlike other jiu-jitsu books that just put random moves together page after page, Saulo starts with survival positions- then moves to escapes and so on. If you are tired about reading of escapes, just flip ahead a bit in the book and read about different submission techniques. There are many different pictures depicting the moves as seen from various angles and he also goes into common mistakes that people make while in certain positions or when trying a particular technique. I have many jiu-jitsu books and this is by far my favorite, I highly recommend!



3. This book is a very comprehensive review of BJJ techniques, that I, as a beginner, have found immensely beneficial. I highly recommend it as a useful resource and quite possibly the best book on the subject.



4. I am new to this sport but this book is helping me a great deal. The pictures are excellent. The techniques that are taught are awesome. I would have liked a little more discussions about theory but what this books lacks in theory it more than makes up for in technique. Get this book and you will learn this sport like crazy.



5. Basically, what we have here is a book which is well presented, full of information and certainly useful....if you compete on the mat and/or are only interested in improving your ground game. What I mean is, as per the trend I have noticed since the UFC explosion, many "Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu" books and DVDs seem to mainly focus on the idea of merely supplementing ones current arsenal [generally focusing on the ground aspects...more often with emphasis on competition] vs. treating this form of Jiu-Jitsu for what it was truly meant to be: a complete, practical, "real world" self-defense system as originated by none other than Helio Gracie himself.
   
   It is interesting that Saulo Ribeiro is one of the "most talented" black belts to graduate from the Gracie Academy, yet this book seems to leave out much information critical to pure self-defense. Where are the techniques discussing "closing the gap," establishing control and then commencing with the take-down? Where are the techniques allowing one to establish standing control (via various submissions/locks)? Where are the techniques dealing with an armed opponent? Again, all of this is missing and only the ground game is detailed.
   
   I am of the mind that being able to put a larger, stronger and possibly very violent opponent (with or without a weapon) to the ground is of utmost importance. Without this, the ground game is useless. It is only when you have successfully nullified the initial attack, gained control and taken the "opponent" to the ground that you can truly begin the ground aspect of the art. Again, this very important process is not demonstrated within the pages of this particular book.
   
   After all is said and done, I can only give this book 4 stars. Yes, it is certainly a great reference for the ground aspects of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and definitely enlightening. However, the lack of transitioning from standing to ground and the lack of any real focus on self-defense techniques is disappointing. A book labeled "Jiu-Jitsu University," authored by such a respected individual, should have much broader application. Alas, it does not.

5 comments about Mind Gym : An Athlete's Guide to Inner Excellence.

1. This book was recommended to me get over issues I had playing racquetball. I kept making mental mistakes and things got worse as the match progressed. This book has taught me how to stay focus and keep moving forward. My game has improved quite a bit and I have beaten players that I have never beaten before. When things go wrong I use the techniques in this book. I highly recommend this book for anyone who needs to take the next step. This is one of those books that you will read more than once and make notes of certain chapters.



2. If you are an athlete or coach you need this book.
   
   We used this with the ASU tennis team and covered a chapter a week. If you are coaching soccer, little league or gymnastics this will bring invaluable lessons to your team that they can leverage for a lifetime.
   
   Brad Harper
   Performance Psychologist



3. Great book for athletes! It is a great book to give as a gift.



4. "Stinkin' thinkin'." You know just what I'm talking about. For me, it would mean walking onto the tennis court thinking I didn't have a shot to win. Or my sons walking to the pitchers mound thinking "this guy's going to jack me." But for those of you who have quit believing, I have a solution - read a book.
   
   I ordered a couple of books on mental toughness, not for myself because I am, but for the boys to read. One of them is Mind Gym: An Athlete's Guide to Inner Excellence. I had them both read the first four chapters last night, and I won't soon forget their response: "It's the best book I've ever read" - hearty words from a 12 and 13-year old. Sometimes as parents we don't know the right words to impart to our kids, or maybe because we're parents we're just heard less...So I don't know that these books will solve their woes of late on the field, but I do know that they're paying attention to the fact that sports are not just physical tests because until the head is right, the body never will be.
   
   Susan Anderson, author, Cold Case in Ellyson



5. I credit this book for changing the direction of my life. I found it to be a powerful tool in changing the way I view the world. I have given out 15 copies to friends, associates and players. If you really take the information in this book to heart it can help you accomplish great things in your life. The lessons learned in this book apply not only to sports but also to life in general. This book really teaches you the power of your own mind and will. I strongly suggest this book to anyone not just athletes.

5 comments about Zen in the Art of Archery.

1. I have just re-read Zen and the Art of Archery, by Eugen Herrigel.
   
   I was a philosophy student in my undergraduate days, and my primary focus was on Zen, so I had underestimated that little volume in my youth; it was too short, and too easy to read. And the author didn't make the process sound exotic enough for my arrogant youthful tastes.
   
   But now, Zen and the Art of Archery talks to me through a megaphone. The book recounts the experiences of a German philosophy professor who studied Kyudo (traditional Japanese archery) for several years. He undertook the study to develop his understanding of Zen Buddhism.
   
   As you read the book, you will see that the concepts and practice of traditional Japanese martial arts have leaked into popular U.S. culture. See Karate Kid and Star Wars, for example.
   
   And there's nothing wrong with that.
   
   But when you read this book, you get to see one of the real-world prototypes of Mr. Miyagi and Yoda.
   
   So read it, and thank me later. But don't think you're going to learn to fire arrows. This isn't an instruction manual.



2. I was left with the distinct feeling of having just completed a long journey after finishing this 80 page book. I have been practicing (traditional) western archery for over a year now and I completely agree with many of the tenets of archery that Master Kenzo Awa spoke of. I took up archery because I was interested in the idea of letting the arrow go versus the common mentality of shooting the arrow at the target and this book reiterates that kind of thinking.
   
   I have never undertaken Kyudo so I cannot speak to the accuracy of what was written, but I do know that many of things written by Herrigel, such as breathing exercises and being surprised when you release the arrow, can applied to western archery. I found the author's prattling and difficulties a bit irritating but it is understandable due to Kyudo's complexity. However, I was left skeptical with the author's understanding of "zen", and while he mentioned this idea of the "Great Doctrine" (of archery), I could not find his definition anywhere.
   
   At the end of this text there are a few pages dedicated to archery's relationship to swordsmanship which I understand but felt it was incongruous with the overall feeling of the rest of the book.



3. I was assigned to read this book for an oboe studio seminar course. I had never read anything zen-ish before, and mostly discounted my professor's decision to include Zen in the Art of Archery. But oh, how I'm glad she did! This book is an easy read and a true piece of inspiration. I highly, highly recommend it.



4. This is a very honest book about the experiences of the author. It has a German sensibility that is quite different from the American sense and for me this made it even more interesting. The reader needs to make an effort to be able to put himself in the author's place. If you can't do this the book has little to recommend it. If you can this book will deliver more value in the short time it takes to read this thin work than many a mighty tome one ponders over for weeks on end.



5. Professor Eugen Herrigel, a German-born professor of philosophy, taught at Tokyo University during the interwar period. During his stay in Japan he became fascinated by Zen Buddhism, then little known in the West, and undertook to study the art of archery with Bowmaster Awa Kenzo, who taught archery not as a technical skill but as a form of meditation practice.
   
   I have read that Kenzo was not a Zen teacher and that this book misrepresents Zen, but I respectfully disagree. Zen has permeated the Japanese fine arts for centuries, and Kenzo's lessons express Zen, regardless of his formal status in the Zen community. Others have criticized Herrigel for coming at Zen obliquely, through Kyudo (the art of archery); again, I respectfully disagree. Zen is not just a segregated "practice" of chants, incense and sitting meditation, it is living life itself, fully. Hence, cooking, cleaning, eating, archery, or even motorcycle maintenance can be Zen practice if done with mindfulness.
   
   Herrigel was writing long before any idea of "Zen" entered into the general Occidental mindset. Indeed, Herrigel's book title has inspired hundreds of copycat "Zen in the Art of . . .", "Zen and the Art of . . .", "The Zen of . . .", and "The Art of Zen in . . ." titles.
   
   While there were other Western (and transplanted Eastern) exponents of Zen in 1948 when Herrigel's book appeared, Herrigel's book became the first "Zen bestseller".
   
   Much of this short (90 page) book discusses the No-Mind necessary to successful mastery of any art. Since Herrigel is attempting to express what is essentially inexpressible, the book's language (in English translation) seems both esoteric and arcane in its utter simplicity.
   
   For all its brevity, this is a dense book, and an interested reader will return to it many times over many years.

5 comments about Tao of Jeet Kune Do.

1. This is a great book in the master's own words! Some things are a bit hard to understand but I think anyone would have trouble describing some moves/ideas without a demonstration.



2. First I must confess that I'm very much a Bruce Lee fan. He was born a few years before me so we are of the same generation. Someone like myself can't help but wonder, when reading this book, what Bruce might write today from the vantage point of age and experience. My personal opinion is that his basic philosophy would not have changed. He would have probably matured in his ideas and continue to evolve and in middle and old age he would have probably adjusted his martial arts to fit the unique needs of aging. But, we'll never know since he died before he had a chance to age. His philosophy, however, was ancient and great. He was wise far beyond his years. And we can still learn much from him --- both about his Tao (Way) and his martial arts style.
   
   The book couples his philosophy, which is mostly Buddhist or eastern, and his method of fighting. I find them both enlightening.
   
   For example, he tells us to keep our chin tucked toward our shoulder as a defense. He teaches us how to keep from being an easy target and how to attack with explosive action from a neutral stance. These are things that never go out of style.
   
   Lee writes, "With the chin dropped and pinned tight to the collarbone, the muscles and bone structure are in the best possible alignment and only the top of the head is presented to the opponent, making it impossible to be hit on the point of the chin."
   
   I found one or two things that didn't sound like Bruce and they didn't fit in with his times. I felt the editor took a few liberties and added his own thoughts or what he felt Bruce might have believed.
   
   For example, under "Everyday opportunities for exercises" we read:
   
   Take a walk whenever you can -- like parking the car a few blocks away from your destination.
   Avoid taking the elevator; climb the stairs instead.
   
   . . . the rest sounds like Bruce. The above statements, while certainly good advice, were not in the lexicon of Bruce's era. They came into being during the last decade or so. Moreover, these two statements do not sound like Lee. They sound like every modern fitness writer on the planet.
   
   This book is more than Bruce's fighting method, though it is that. It is inspiring and powerful. It is full of wisdom and inspiration and thoughtful advice and meditation. Lee had a wide range of interests. He was a dancer. He was an artist. He took an interest in many things and many philosophies. He was not a good actor. His wife Linda often says that Bruce considered himself a martial artist first and an actor second. I'm not sure that's true. Lee took a keen interest in his acting career and the income he got from it. But like Elvis Presley, his ability to act was very limited. Yet he brought magic to the screen with his lovely body and outstanding skill. He didn't need to be a good actor.
   
   Much that we have heard about Bruce Lee is pure myth. But what is not myth is his martial arts greatness and his keen mind that absorbed information like a sponge, his ability to take what he needed from everything and discard the rest. He did not get attached to any one idea. He evolved in his thinking and adapted daily to his needs.
   
   There is much about Bruce Lee that is, and probably always will be, powerful motivation for millions. He was only 5' 8" and weighed about 140lbs, but he loomed large on the screen and in the hearts and minds of all who saw him or knew him.
   
   Whether or not you want to learn about Jeet Kune Do, you will gain much by reading this book. It is deep and meaningful.
   
   Highly recommended.
   
   - Susanna K. Hutcheson



3. I was hoping for some sort of Bruce Lee "bible" of sorts but its just a collection of unfinished scribbles and thoughts. I have a very high regard for B.L., his movies and his characters (and thoughts) but this book is all over the place and very inconsistent.



4. Bruce Lee was a very interesting man. If you're just curious about Bruce and want to know more about him, you'll probably like this book, but there may be other books about him that would suit you better. Personally, I had a keen interest in Zen, and I would say that there are about 30 pages in this book (out of 200) which shed a great deal of light on Bruce's notions of Zen. In contrast, the bulk of the book is given over to a detailed exposition of Bruce's approach to the martial arts: how to fight, how to prepare oneself for fighting, and how to use strategy and tactics to basically beat the daylights out of someone who is trying to kill you. I was surprised that there was not more space devoted to kicking, because I see some of Bruce's old fight scenes where he uses kicking extensively. However, I would very much recommend this book to anyone interested in American boxing, because Bruce really lays out a thorough method for it. As for Zen, there are some heavy ideas laid out in this book, but those are concentrated in the sections at the beginning and near the end of the text. In any case, lovers of Kung Fu fighting are sure to enjoy...



5. Was expecting a lot more instead of basically Bruce's notes presented in an all most comic book form. If you took out all the over spacing this book would be perhaps 30 pages? Plus side is you see Bruce's thoughts and insight on paper.

5 comments about Drill to Win: 12 Months to Better Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu.

1. After being involved in Tae Kwon Do, I felt that I needed something more challenging and have found this book meeting my needs for self improvement and a way to continue a better physical conditioning routine. Kudos to the authors of this brilliant book. Senior authletes can learn and improve with Jiu-Jitsu and especially this book.



2. I just received my copy of Drill to Win 3 days ago. I must say, Looking over this book I can see there has been a lot of time and thought into creating this book.
   As a beginner, I particularly enjoyed the layout of the book. I found it very clear and easy to understand. I personally enjoyed the still frame by frame illustrations, very easy to follow. The back story of Andre Galvao was a pretty cool added treat. I believe by reading this book and following the day to day drills the book provides (in depth), will not only aid in the physical aspect but, also the understanding and speed in which I learn this great art of BJJ.
   Great job to all that helped put this book together.



3. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED THIS YET???????!!!!!!! BEEN OVER A WEEK AFTER THE DATE GIVEN BY AMAZON THAT I WAS DUE TO RECEIVE IT



4. I can't give this book a 5 star review because I haven't put in the year of drilling to give it justice to the system.
   
   There are things I like about the book and things I love about it. The introduction to the book was definatly worth the read. Reading of the struggle to championships is always something great to put things in perspective. By the way read about Yoddecha Sityodtong to hear a truly remarkable story
   
   Then came the "diet of a champion" portion of the book. The diet is ok I wasn't too crazy about it to be honest but I think it's something that really just works well for him. To say diet of champion is a big statement and for me being studying in sports nutrition and fitness for a while I don't think it was that great. However I really appreciate more about how he spoke about being disciplined about eating the right things over the wrong.
   
   Now the meat and potato's. The Drills...
   
   The drills were all great some old some new. The thing to appreciate more then the drills themselves in the book are the outline to tells you train them in. the first part of the book helps you build fundamental balance and strength that will carry on as you continue to not only use the book's program but it will definatly help anyone's game. Especially people that may have traveled alot and haven't trained at one place for long(ME). I'd have to say I agree with other people who say it should have a DVD. For me personally I don't think it needs one but I'm speaking from already having BJJ experience. Some new guys may not be able to understand the movements as well.
   
   The most important thing about this book is that you have take in all in and read EVERYTHING. The mental approach and insight he gives you is something truly invaluable. Galvao is all about hard training but he made sure to encourage resting and having fun without the use of drugs or alcohol.
   
   All in all I think it's worth having.
   
   "The man who closes his mind to knowledge is a fool"- Renzo Gracie



5. After going through the book religiously for the past 2 weeks I must agree that the drills in the book will most definitely improve your game, not just the technique aspects of it but also your level of fitness. This book is really exhaustive, I am impress with the amount of content and areas of BJJ that is covered! A MUST have for all BJJ practitioners.
   
   On the flip side, I would also have to agree with some of the reviewers in that some of the drills shown may be confusing to someone who is new to BJJ. I guess because there's just so much info in this book a lot of the drills are not explained very clearly (I'm comparing it to some of the Gracie and Penn books). And although the pictures are coloured and clear they should of used some indicators like arrows or circles to outline minor but crucial areas to focus on; or even enlarge a part of an image. With that said some of the images may also be a little too small. Yeah, a DVD (or a website to see videos of the drills) would definitely help... especially to prevent any injuries by performing the techniques wrongly.
   
   Condition of the book: I was very upset when I got my copy. First of all the alignment of the book was way off! The last letter to the right of the first 20 or so pages have been partially sliced through. Not only that, the corners of the book looked like someone threw the book against the wall. I can't believed I paid full price!
   
   So to end this review, I would say that the layout of the book receives 4 of 5 stars (amount of content = 5 stars!); but because of how bad the condition of the book was (I'm very upset with the QC of printing/binding company who put this book together) I'd have to reduce the rating to 3 stars... sorry. Nevertheless, it is an awesome book!!
   
   Thank you Andre Galvao and Kevin Howell!

5 comments about Be Ready When the Sh*t Goes Down: A Survival Guide to the Apocalypse.

1. Another great read by Forrest Griffin...I enjoyed this one as much as his first book, "Got Fight?". Griffin has a knack for telling a story and the man is funny as hell. I found myself laughing out loud while reading it. If you enjoyed his first book, this is a must buy!



2. I think the author is a comedic genius and this book is hilarious. Griffin is a gifted storyteller and a master of the punch line. I found my self laughing out loud as I read to the end that my kids wondered what was up with me! If you liked his first book, you will love this one. If you've never read Griffin, you have to pick up a copy!



3. This is definitely a book for the 14+ - 40ish guy crowd or any woman that really likes UFC. I went to a book signing on Long Island where Forrest spoke and took questions for about 45 minutes. I have to say, he is a naturally funny guy - like stand up funny with a small crowd. He has a great sense of timing and humor...which probably means he's a heck of a lot smarter than anyone realizes...making him a dangerous man to tangle with...even before the 'stuff' goes down. This is NOT a book for anyone under 14 - language and situations are for adults only.
   
   I think he admitted that this book didn't take all that long to write, and it shows. But this isn't a book anyone is going to read for the literary value, unless they get to twenty by counting on their toes. It's a great read for anyone with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD or AD/HD or ADD); Forrest throws in little 'Forrest Factoids' and 'Fortune Cookie Wisdom' paragraphs whenever the mood strikes. These paragraphs kind of act like little mental speed bumps, and they either enhance the story or sending the reader into deep thought while contemplating all the wisdom. It doesn't take that long to read either - which for me, was a blessing.
   
   Probably the funniest thing about the book is that it actually has some good advice - like what vehicles are the best to commandeer (hint: avoid tractors), and the importance of weapons (for protecting your stuff). I could have done without the knowing that Forrest attempted to milk penguins when doing research for this book; sadly only a nuclear explosion (nearby) will erase that from my memory. I hope the penguin wasn't traumatized...or at least not as bad as Forrest when he saw a freshly killed deer stuffed into the trunk of a Lincoln Continental.
   
   The best thing you can do is buy the book here on Amazon. I paid full price, and man, am I stupid.



4. FIRST OFF, I'M A FORREST GRIFFIN FAN. I'VE HEARD HE HAS A GOOD SENSE OF HUMOR, SO WHEN I CAME ACROSS THIS BOOK ON SALE IN THE STORE, I BOUGHT IT. I'M REAL GLAD I DIDN'T PAY FULL PRICE. SOME PARTS OF THE BOOK WERE REALLY FUNNY, BUT MOST OF IT WAS JUST DUMB. I THINK I'M A LITTLE LESS OF A FORREST FAN AFTER READING THIS BOOK. HE IS A MORON.



5. My husband loves this book and I'm waiting to read it myself. It took more than 10 days past the estimated arival for this book to come in the mail...

5 comments about The 48 Laws of Power.

1. Not bad, not spectacular. Much is already simple wisdom from having lived life, or even through intuitive thinking. I like the book, but many who are not open to what is actually being stated, may find it to be harsh...it is not. Look deeper into the intent of the message, and you may find the wisdom helpful for you in business and social situations.



2. I'm lazy, so I'm going to keep this short.
   
   Basically, this book helped me realize I was trapped in a high-level power game and allowed me to get out before I got too invested (more trapped). Definitely a huge wake up call and savior!



3. Intellectually stimulating book. As a result I started inscribing 48 laws of intellectual power on my blog.
   
   Dmitry Vostokov
   Founder of Management Bits and Tips blog
   The author of Resume and CV: As a Book and Salary Figures: A Codebook of Expectations



4. This book is heavy on knowledge. In the wrong hands it could easily turn into a dangerous weapon of wisdom. While I admit that most of the authors views and opinions backed by facts initially come off as devious and sinister, I undoubtedly agree with the author. The good in me wants to believe he's wrong, but the human nature in me cannot deny the truth. The physical world we live in is all about opportunity and if you show any weakness in this land of opportunity there's always a snake in the grass close by ready to capitalize. The only sure way not to become prey to those types is to become sly predator yourself. This book provides you with the tools you need to gain power and adapt to almost any situation where there's something you would like to gain.



5. Many of this book's negative reviews seem to focus on its supposed immorality. Reading these reviews can be a bit misleading because they make it seem as if the only types of people who can use these laws are those wishing to deceive and manipulate others. Admittedly, this is somewhat true (you most likely aren't reading a book like this if you aren't looking for a way to influence other people more effectively) however the way a person chooses to apply these laws is really what determines their morality. Even some of the seemingly duplicitous laws are in fact fairly innocuous. Take for instance, taking the credit for other people's work. On the surface, this appears to be rather despicable. But if you've ever read a self-help book or attended a motivational seminar, and then applied the principles you learned, then you have used this law. This in fact, is one of the best aspects of The 48 Laws of Power; at no point does Greene try to tell the reader what's right and wrong...only what works.
   
   Content aside, the book is laid out and reads well. As you would expect each law gets its own chapter. Chapters are broken down into a brief description of each law backed up by historical examples of transgressions and observances concluding with Green's personal thoughts. There are also anecdotal stories and poems in the margins. While the examples of transgressions and observances do a good job of illustrating the point, I found Greene's commentary to be extremely insightful as well. Most chapters can be read in thirty minutes or less which leads me to another positive aspect of this book; you can read a chapter right before you go to bed and literally begin applying it the very next day. Even if you don't apply them you will most certainly notice people following or (more often) breaking them.
   
   As far as the laws' effectiveness I don't have personal experience with them all, though the ones I have applied work great. Many of them are situational. Others aren't always necessary (that is to say, following them will certainly help your cause but ignoring them won't necessarily be detrimental). Still others are indispensable and not following them will at a minimum limit your potential (particularly in the work place). 48 Laws is basically a human psychology book and how you use it is really up to you. In my opinion, if you change even one pattern of behavior as a result of reading it then it was worth the money. And even if you don't, it will at least give you new insight on human interaction.