This is the first time I have been so absorbed by a martial arts book. I would strongly recommend anyone interested in any kind of martial art to read this book. For those who are just starting to practice a discipline or just interested in martial arts, the first 5 chapters are an invaluable resource of guidance and information. I really enjoyed the last 4 chapters with clear explanations and analysis of different techniques and maneuvers. The good amount of pictures helped to understand each attack but also the very clear way they are described made it almost as if I could see it in motion. Even though one would think that a sport/martial art should be practiced and not read about, this is a book you really want to read before you even start.

Having a martial arts background myself, I was able to relate to the authors perspective and follow the techniques through the simple step by step guides outlined by the photographs. But this is not an instruction manual. It asks the question What is Jui Jitsu? It follows its history right from its earliest beginnings to the current re-immergence of the martial art thanks to Mixed Martial Arts and the impact of the Gracie family on the UFC? An immersive, well researched and enjoyable read.