The first installment in a multi-volume guide on the lost arts of the
samurai--presented in the English language for the very first time
Antony Cummins and Yoshie Minami have brought the teachings of the famed
samurai school Natori-Ryu back to life through The Book of Samurai
series. This first installment is a translation of two secret scrolls
and establishes the Fundamental Teachings of a samurai student,
revealing the basic traditions of Natori-Ryu.
The first scroll, Heika Jodan, contains 290 lessons that define the
baseline for samurai during times of peace--a time which is considered
as preparation for war. It focuses each student on expanding their own
ability and conduct, giving them the mind-set needed for any battles to
come. The second scroll, Ippei Yoko, moves the student onto the field of
battle. It provides them with an understanding of what is expected
during a campaign of war and the necessary guidance for samurai who are
to take up arms for the first time. These first two Natori-Ryu documents
are an in-depth and detailed account of the practicality of samurai
warfare, opening up the lost world of these Japanese warriors to all
modern readers.