Book review:

A book for ninja historians and martial art afficionados.

It might be surprising but historical ninja did not dress in the black robes that have become their defining image. In similar vein, researcher and martial art practitioner, Kacem Zoughari has authored a work that aims to present the ninja in a factually accurate manner. It posits the origins of the shinobi as a convergence of factions including warrior monks, refugees from the remnants of defeated armies and other dwellers of secluded mountainous areas.

A large portion of this work is given to modern day ninjutsu, specifically the Togakure ryu. The current master, Hatsumi Masaaki, and his predecessor, Takamatsu Toshitsugu, are central. Their lives, impact and knowledge are given significant exposure.

While this book may have benefited from a little more editorial oversight, particularly in the spelling department, it’s nonetheless a very concentrated and earnest investigative effort that digs into one of the cultural icons of Japan.

Shelf 789.8 ZOU
The ninja : ancient shadow warriors of Japan / Kacem Zoughari.
Zoughari, Kacem.
Tokyo : Tuttle ; Enfield : Publishers Group UK [distributor], 2010.
1 v. : ill. (chiefly col.) ; 26 cm.
Text in English
ISBN 9780804839273

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