Jiu Jitsu - the Essential Guide to Mastering the Art

n more than one way this is a very good and esthetically pleasing book: "Jiu Jitsu - The Essential Guide to Mastering the Art", by Hans-Erik Petermann. From what I understand Mr. Petermann is from South Africa. He has been involved in martial arts for over thirty years - being a ju jitsu instructor, in addition to teaching (Internal) kung fu, and holding a dan-rank in karate. Obviously someone with a broad knowledge base!

To me, the main focus of this book is to show Brazilian jiu-jitsu, even though you will also be presented to the more traditional sides of the art, as well as self-defense. One of the things that make this into agreat book is the fact that it shows the link between the traditional ju jitsu and self-defense, and the more modern varieties represented by Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Vale Tudo.

All through the book it is rather obvious that the author and publisher presents the modern, Brazilian jiu-jitsu as "the shit" :-). And judging from the quality of the traditional variety presented here - I don't blame him/them! In short, this is not much to write home about... The grappling part on the other hand seems to present the quality and action sadly lacking in it's "older" counter-part.

The book is built like a presentation of the art to the beginner. This is done in a clear and concise manner - very nicely presented all the way through (apart from the rather "wimpy" ju jitsu techniques, that is). The lay-out, pictures, visuals and print is second to none - maybe the best I've seen ever. It really sets a new standard for anyone interested in publishing a high-quality martial arts book.

I woun't hesitate to recommend this book to anyone interested in getting a glimps of this great art of ours. If the modern part were to the standard of the grappling part I would have given it a "best buy". Still - boy it just to see the fantastic quality!

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