Vividly illustrating the techniques of a legendary innovator, this definitive examination explains how to survive attacks on the street, increase training awareness, and develop body movements. Originally compiled as a four-volume series, this revised edition breathes new life into a classic work with digitally-enhanced photography of jeet kune do founder Bruce Lee in his prime, a new chapter by former Lee student Ted Wong, and an introduction by Shannon Lee. This renowned compendium once again reclaims its place as an integral part of the Lee canon and a necessary addition for collectors and martial arts enthusiasts alike.
The Best Book Of All Time!November 17, 2008 1 out of 1 found this review helpful
This book is gotta be the best book of all time. It gives u all the tools you need to be the best martial artist u can be. I use to kick okay kind of slow and weak but after reading the kicking chapter. And read how to improve my kick it worked. Like I said it so simple to read and do. Bruce Lee You Are defenently the best ever. You are missed.
this is a great book!October 31, 2008 This is a great and important book for all Bruce Lee students to collect and study.
A Nice Collector's BookOctober 29, 2008 2 out of 2 found this review helpful
I remember buying these four volume paperback sets in the late 70's. Back then Bruce Lee was my favorite martial artists (with Bill Wallace and Benny Urquidez immediately following). I wanted to fight like Bruce, kia like Bruce, and be a hero like Bruce.
Well, I am not really going to critique this book as a martial arts instruction text, except to briefly note, that while at first glance it may appear to be a primer, there is more written material here then the average primer, which are often nothing more than picture books. Yet, there are some faults, but it must be remembered the time it was written and photographed (1966-1967). It was a huge step-up from Bruce's first book on Gung Fu. Here Bruce is concerned with the application of technique more then technique itself.
Essential topics like power and speed training are discussed (a way ahead of its time). Topics such as speed are re-addressed in other chapters, showing the synthesis of the material presented. Unlike most primers, many definitions of speed are presented and tactics are discussed.
The self-defense volume is the weakness. Some techniques are tried and true, but others are not. There is a forward from Bruce's daughter, Sharon Lee and an introduction by co-author and Black Belt Magazine founder, M. Uyehara.
Functionally, this book should outlast the paperback versions. The binding appears to be terrific. The hard cover should provide a sturdy book for use, travel, and overuse. Like Shawn has noted, the page sizes is larger than its paperback predecessors, making for larger print and photos, in addition to an all around better lay-out.
If you were or are a Bruce Lee fan, then get this book. If not, there is still much to appreciate and learn from and it fits well in any martial artist's library.
Every martialist should have it.October 23, 2008 0 out of 2 found this review helpful
If you are a fan of Bruce Lee or want to better your self, this book is for you. I feel like I have my own private teacher when I read his books. His movies are great. But now that I have this book, for me personally I feel I have known Bruce Lee my whole life.
I'd also like to say that in my opinion, Cynthia Rothrock is Bruce Lee's female companion in the martial arts. I have never seen another on tv or in films that can move like she does. When it comes to martial artists, Bruce Lee and Cynthia Rothrock are my all time favorites.
Fantastic bookOctober 18, 2008 0 out of 1 found this review helpful
I bought this book for my son, who is in the Marines and trains other Marines in martial arts. He said this is a great book and is very pleased to have it.
