My thanks to both NetGalley and the publisher North Atlantic Books for this history book on the martial arts.

Karate as both a martial art, way of life and a cultural factor has had many peaks and valleys in the public consciousness. Karate was thought of as a way to teach and learn discipline, as well as giving people a chance to walk their streets, or fight in battles. Movies had a large effect as did the rise mixed martial arts in both television and the world of martial arts. Many other disciplines came along, they seemed sexier, and with more umphh, so much sexier than wearing a gi and a belt. Karate almost became quaint, like learning fencing, nice, but not of the current world. Karate as the Art of Killing: A Study of Its Deadly Origins, Ideology of Peace, and the Techniques of Shito-Ryu the late Masayuki Shimabukuro and co-writer Leonard J. Pellman seek to explain the history of karate, going back to its origins and explaining its outlook and philosophy, going to the roots as a killing art, to explan its importance in our world.

The book begins with a history of both the late Shimabukur Hanshi, his background, training and his early passing and Mr. Pellman's introduction to martial arts, and the history of the writing of this book. From there the book examines the early origins of the martial arts, traveling from China to Japan, explaining the discipline, the art and philosophy of karate. Many terms are introduced and explained, as well as many questions asked. Should karate be performed as a sport, what of the use of outside weapons. Is there still growth in the art of karate, or has its time come.

The book is written for true students of the art. This is not one of those Killing Secrets of the Ninja books this is true thoughtful study of the history and the importance of karate. Going to the source is their attempt to bring the martial art back to its origins, as a killing art, and restoring its usefulness and importance to today. Not for a casual fan, or even a Jackie Chan fan, this is a deep introspective study by two masters on something they feel strongly about.