5 comments about Become the Arrow (On Target Series).

1. This is good book to learn a bit more if you do first steps in traditional archery. It is interesting to read, and gives very clear step - by step advices.



2. This was a Christmas gift for hubby and he is enjoying the book. He says it is pretty much to the point, doesnt waste flowery words in his descriptions and was very informative.



3. As a boy, I was fortunate enough to see Howard Hill hit a quarter tossed into the air with his trusty bow and arrow. I've been shooting the bow ever since. Byron's book is the best that I have read on explaining the "how" of the art of traditional bow shooting. How to concentrate, how to breath, how to stand, how to hold the bow, how to draw the bow, how to release the arrow, and how to practice are all covered in detail. Mr. Ferguson obviously knows what he is talking about. This is a "must have" for any traditional archer.



4. This is a must read for anyone planning to shoot barebow. For hunters, the section on deer hunting makes this worthwhile.



5. Become the Arrow (On Target Series)
   An excellent and informative book for the archery enthusiast!

5 comments about Shooting the Stickbow.

1. The book has a lot of good info about traditional archery,non compound bow stuff, but is not complete. OK book for beginners but is leaves out some basics. No index, all good reference books have an index.



2. Awesome book, well worth the cheap price. I am new to traditional archery and this explained a lot of things that I didn't know and clarified some stuff that I thought I knew. Wonderful read.
   
   Daniel Fox
   Ft. Wainwright, AK



3. I received this book last week and have to say it is now my "bible" for archery and will most certainly be my recommendation for anyone interested in traditional archery.
   
   It is a fantastic compilation of information... it appears that nothing is left out. And it's a pleasure to read as well; Mr. Camera is a talented writer. This isn't just a great archery book; I think it's one of the best books of its type for any sport or hobby.



4. As I am just beginning to take a more active participation in this sport/hobby, I wanted a book that could give me definitions as well as recommendations. This book does it. Terrific information on all aspects of traditional archery as well as some comparisons to modern archery (compound bow). Good examples and good exercises to be a better archer.
   
   One problem with this book as well as many that go to limited audiences is the overall look and feel along with editing. Pictures are only black and white and many could be better quality. Found several editing errors.
   
   Given that I would highly recommend to the beginning traditional archer.



5. Shooting the Stickbow is very valuable to me as an instrucktional aid, while training jungsters at our Archery club "SCBA" and the "Archery Shoppe's" indoor range. The negative side is, the pictures in the book are of such a low quality. Sincerely, Mongo

5 comments about The Traditional Bowyer's Bible, Volume 3.

1. This was a very excellent book and I ordered the other 2 vol.
   These also were very very good. I have enjoyed them very much.
   They would be a very good addition to any boyers library.
   Very good prices also.



2. This final volume ( # 3 ) of this series has very useful instructional information concerning bow making tools, take down ( two piece ) bows, stone age bows, stone points ( knapping ), and making arrows. Bow designs from many cultures around the world are examined and explained in detail.
   The tools mentioned range from simple hand tools, such as the wood rasp, to power tools, like the band saw. Power tools are not needed to make these bows, but can save time.
   Properly made arrows are a very important part of archery gear, and this voulme shows how they are made correctly and safely using a variety of woods and fletchings.
   Other chapters explain bow designs such as the asymetrical yumi bow from Japan, the materials for composite bows of Korea, and the hole nocks from some African bows.



3. This volume is very explicative and not lost any details of his points. All the volumes makes a great help, and even a single powerfull source of information, to anyone who want to make the finest traditional bows, i recomend !



4. The things that I learned in here I am puting into practice, very knowledgeable man and very practiced at what he does, real easey to understand,and I had fun reading it



5. (This review pertains to the first three volumes as a whole. I do not own the new 4th volume ... yet.)
   
   The Traditional Bowyer's Bible can be reviewed fairly briefly.
   
   On the pro side:
   
   - The authors are traditional archery experts.
   - The content is wide-ranging, covering longbows, recurves, flatbows, backed bows, composite bows, takedowns, asymmetrical bows, arrows, nocks, fletching, backings, finishing, tools, etc. Virtually every bow type is represented and from every area of the world and from ancient history to the present day.
   - The books contain original material, such as information on hysterisis.
   - The content covers basics to very advanced topics.
   - Though the authors express individual preferences here and there(bow types, woods, etc.), taken as a whole the material is quite neutral and fact-based.
   - Design is emphasized as much as construction, perhaps more so. I'd go further and say the intent of the series is to teach foundational material and definitely not to present simple how-to instructions. I've made bows using these books, but see comments below, too.
   - There is very little throw-away material, here meaning text that preaches to the choir about the virtues of traditional archery.
   
   On the con side:
   
   - The material is topically organized (e.g., design, tillering, woods). While that's terrific for the topic, it isn't the best for the step-by-step how-do-I-make-a-bow reader. You really have to read the bulk of the material to put it together.
   - These may not be the best books for someone just starting out in traditional archery. The authors presume basic knowledge of archery and terminology. A newcomer, unless extraordinarily enthusiastic, will be overwhelmed.
   - There's a lot of line drawing illustrations. I would prefer photos.
   - The multiple volume approach isn't really necessary, given the size of each, drives up the price of the total, and I would like to see the series published in a single volume.
   
   The cons are nits, however. This book series provides an extremely comprehensive view of traditional archery and is a must-have on the bookshelf of anyone interested in the topic.

5 comments about Beginner's Guide to Traditional Archery.

1. As an absolute beginner to archery, I bought a Recurve Bow, some wooden arrows, THEN this book. Very helpful. Would have been more helpful had I read it before buying my equipment but no big problems.



2. I began the art and practice of traditional archery when I was seven years old. Few endeavors have brought me more pleasure during my lifetime than this pursuit. My first bow was an English Long Bow, made of wood as was my second. As I grew older I eventually "graduated" to the re-curves and it was this bow that I participated in hunting. I gave up hunting years and years ago (more about that later), but my entire emphases has always been on target shooting and woodcraft.
   
   This work, Beginner's Guide to Traditional Archery by Brian J. Sorrells is by far the best book for those just starting out in this art form. Now I will grant you that the best way to learn is from a good teacher, but that is not always possible. This little work fills that gap very nicely. Now keep in mind that this work was not meant for those with experience in the use of the traditional bow; this would include all those who have learned with and shot nothing but the compound bow. Compound bows are an entirely different creature. It is my personal belief that they are the worse thing that could have possible happened to archery, but that is a personal belief and prejudice and if using a compound is gratifying, then I am all for it for those who enjoy such things.
   
   The text and pictures in this book are of the highest quality, very concise and very informative. The author discusses every thing from history to theory to practical use of the various pieces of equipment needed. This work is not a deep work nor was it meant to be. This book gives the newcomer a starting point; a reference block that can and should be built upon. Remember, everyone has to start somewhere and I cannot think of a better tool to start the young (and not so young) beginner.
   
   Now there are quite a number of reasons to practice this art and there are even more reason to have the younger set involved. I am talking traditional archery there, okay?
   
   First is the hunt. I can think of no other form of hunting that forces the hunter to actually learn all that they can about the animal they are attempting to harvest. Not only that but it forces the hunter to be aware of and intimately know what is to be found in the out of doors. I always enjoyed hunting with a long bow because of the small chance of my actually having to kill anything. Truth be told, when I actually wanted to harvest game, I did it with a gun; a simple thing really, especially if you have training that began with traditional archery. To this day I still use all of the skills I learned over the years from the bow, but now of course I use a camera. If it is meat on the table, I can promise you that we can take one of my old British 303s out on opening day and within 45 minutes we can have a deer in the back of the truck; or even two is you want. If we go out on opening day with a traditional bow, chances are we will have nothing for the pot, but we will have gotten to spend eight or more hours in the woods. For me, there is not contest here.
   
   Secondly, there is a very definite Zen like quality about using the traditional bow. Now I am not a Zen Buddhist by any means, but some of the teachings here have a very practical aspect; teachings that can enhance your life. In the journey and path to enlightenment, one of the Zen Arts must be studied and mastered. These include Swordsmanship, Archery, Brush and Ink, The Tea Ceremony or Flower Arranging. Having over the years dealt in each of these area (and I can assure you that I did not master even one of them), I found that archery did indeed bring about serenity and taught control; not only physical but mental. This is a wonderful gift to give to a child.
   
   Third, and probably one of the most important aspects of archery, is that it gets the child (and or adult) away from the T.V., computer, office, desk, house, and on and on. It is exercise (don't laugh...try repeatedly pulling a 50 pound bow for a few hours). Anything to be active and if you can find joy in being active, so much the better.
   
   Forth is the fact that this is a sport/art/hobby/endeavor/ pastime than can be enjoyed starting at a relatively young age and practice for almost your entire life. I still occasionally practice with men and women well into their late 80s.
   
   So, think about it; a traditional sport or art, a wonderful way to study natural history, an unbeatable way to learn to hunt, exercise, relaxation, the out of doors and the thrill of accomplishment! What more could you want.
   
   As I said before, this is an ideal book to get you or your child started one something that can be a very good thing that will last a lifetime.
   
   I do highly recommend this work!
   
   Now, about flower arranging....just kidding.
   
   Don Blankenship
   The Ozarks



3. I saw that this book was recommended by several sites. I bought it as I am just beginning to be interested in traditional archery. The first half is really thin on information. The second half is full of exercises which seem good. I have tried some and they seem to help as I get started.
   
   It will not provide you with information that I was looking for such as definitions. There is, as in any profession or hobby, a lot of jargon, language specific to the hobby. Not explained as well as I wanted.
   
   I thought Shooting The Stick Bow to be much more helpful.



4. Compared to Anthony Camera's "Shooting the Stickbow"; As an archer that has been shooting for over fourty years i find this book not to be particularly informative and of low instrucktional value. Mongo925.



5. I got back into archery a couple of years ago after a 20-year hiatus. I wanted to shoot recurve for the challenge and pure fun of shooting. It's almost impossible to find anyone that shoots "traditional" anymore, so a good book is a must. I bought this after having read some of Brian's articles in Traditional Bowhunter magazine. It was a good quick read that contained some very useful pointers. My shooting really improved after using his method to tune arrows for proper spine. This was the first book that made it easy for me to understand. My only real complaint with the book was that it was too short! It's enough to get you started, but leaves you wanting more.

5 comments about The Traditional Bowyer's Bible, Volume 4.

1. A very informative additional volume for bowyers. The previous volumes should be well understood before attempting some techniques from this volume. Well worth the asking price.



2. But it's still a great addition. The techniques in this volume are for the very advanced bowyers, but are still useful for beginner/intermediate bowyers to know.



3. Excellent product and response time by amazon, as usual!! This series of books I would highly recommend to anyone interested in archery.
   Thanks



4. The entire series of the Bowyer's Bible is exactly that, the bible for bowyers. They are fantastic books for any traditional archer. The archer will read them 4 or 5 times at least.



5. Bought for my husband for his Birthday. He likes the books. I wish they were hardbacked

5 comments about The Traditional Bowyer's Bible, Volume 2.

1. This book is written by several experts and is essentially a compilation of individual articles, each of which is outstanding in the detail of the direction given. However, for a person seeking to make a particular bow, all 3 books of the series are needed and there is not an orderly progression. Just count on buying all three, reading them all, making decisions based on what you've learned, and then picking chapters to help you as you go along.



2. This book isn't just about making bows. It has a great section on making bow strings from primative materials or modern ones. Includes design of stings, types, features. Great to learn to make a string for that bow you just made.



3. THIS IS the book series you are looking for to get a GREAT start in making hand made archery equipment !! Well written and insightful, It has much to add to the foundation of Volume #1 WHAT A BARGAIN - A MUST HAVE SERIES FOR THE BEGINNING BOWYER... SO MUCH HELP FOR ANYONE INTERESTED IN CRAFTING ARCHERY EQUIPMENT.



4. this book has a lot of repeat info from he previous verson, but there are some new info also and in my opinion re reading something even re-worded is helpful in remembering was is put out.. no question these guy's know their stuff.



5. (This review pertains to the first three volumes as a whole. I do not own the new 4th volume ... yet.)
   
   The Traditional Bowyer's Bible can be reviewed fairly briefly.
   
   On the pro side:
   
   - The authors are traditional archery experts.
   - The content is wide-ranging, covering longbows, recurves, flatbows, backed bows, composite bows, takedowns, asymmetrical bows, arrows, nocks, fletching, backings, finishing, tools, etc. Virtually every bow type is represented and from every area of the world and from ancient history to the present day.
   - The books contain original material, such as information on hysterisis.
   - The content covers basics to very advanced topics.
   - Though the authors express individual preferences here and there(bow types, woods, etc.), taken as a whole the material is quite neutral and fact-based.
   - Design is emphasized as much as construction, perhaps more so. I'd go further and say the intent of the series is to teach foundational material and definitely not to present simple how-to instructions. I've made bows using these books, but see comments below, too.
   - There is very little throw-away material, here meaning text that preaches to the choir about the virtues of traditional archery.
   
   On the con side:
   
   - The material is topically organized (e.g., design, tillering, woods). While that's terrific for the topic, it isn't the best for the step-by-step how-do-I-make-a-bow reader. You really have to read the bulk of the material to put it together.
   - These may not be the best books for someone just starting out in traditional archery. The authors presume basic knowledge of archery and terminology. A newcomer, unless extraordinarily enthusiastic, will be overwhelmed.
   - There's a lot of line drawing illustrations. I would prefer photos.
   - The multiple volume approach isn't really necessary, given the size of each, drives up the price of the total, and I would like to see the series published in a single volume.
   
   The cons are nits, however. This book series provides an extremely comprehensive view of traditional archery and is a must-have on the bookshelf of anyone interested in the topic.

5 comments about Backcountry Skiing: Skills for Ski Touring and Ski Mountaineering (Mountaineers Outdoor Expert Series).

1. This probably is the sixth of the Mountaineers Outdoor Expert Series books that I have purchased as published by the Mountaineers Books. As with those other texts, I was able to learn some things and was surprised and disappointed at the information which was not covered. This book is no exception.
   
   On the positive side, there is very good instruction on roped skiing and on situations requiring belay stations and stances with skis. The avalanche safety section is good, but not definitive. The strong point of this book is the techniques for skiing in various terrain, along with the transitions that inevitably occur. For this, I would say this is one of the better, more up-to-date instructional books.
   
   A big disappointment comes with the lack of depth in discussing the merits of various gear options. For example, in the beginning there was a brief illustration of the history of telemark vs. alpine touring setups, followed by a bare discussion about the merits of each. This fundamental question is then quickly dismissed simply by the statement "the best answer remains to choose the right tool for the job, or quite possibly to go with whatever style you prefer." That completely misses the point on why someone would buy this in the first place; these experts should give much more information to the reader before the readers embark on the very expensive quest to discover this for themselves...the reason for an "expert" series in the first place.
   
   Another example is their discussion on ski weight. It starts out good, but then the authors punt again by saying "Shop at a store where the salesperson can answer technical questions and can point you in the right direction for your intended application." But isn't this the reason one would buy this book?? Having very frustrating experiences with so-called "expert" salespeople in many of these stores leaves much to be desired, which is why I would like the opinions of the experts who wrote this book. This punting on fundamental gear questions grows tiresome quickly...
   
   There is no discussion on the merits of wax or XCG/Crown/Fishscale means of level or uphill locomotion. And there is nary anything about using mountaineering boots in conjuction with ski setups...only an acknowledgement that you can. These examples of lame treatment of important gear questions frankly minimizes the utility of this book. Certainly, the authors have an opinion about such things; the reason people like me buy books by experts is to read their reasoned opinions. This gives nothing of the sort in order to be "gear" neutral (a sort of "political correctness" imported to an "expert" book so as to perhaps not offend any company or various gear afficionados...)
   
   A second and larger disappointment is that this book deals minimally with hauling gear for winter camping/expedition purposes. For all intents and purposes, this book should be entitled "Day-Trip Backcountry Skiing" because there is hardly anything referring to the load-carrying complications of overnight and/or expedition-type traveling. There is no instructions on how to rig a pulk/sled, or how to rig a backpack even for overnight use. Absolutely nothing on winter camping after the skiing, which to me is the essense of ski mountaineering.
   
   In sum, the good technique instruction in this book is worth the purchase price. But this definitely is not the definitive Ski Mountaineering book...if this is what you are looking for, you might need to look further...I'm still searching.



2. This is a great book. It allows beginners to develop a good base of knowledge and provides a great reference for those with years of experience. It is exactly what we have come to expect from the Mountaineers.



3. This new "Backcountry Skiing" guidebook is destined to become a classic in The Mountaineers Books collection ... one that will be considered an indispensible reference in the libraries of mountaineers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes. Authors Martin Volken, Scott Schell, and Margaret Wheeler have each guided ski tours in the Alps throughout Europe, where Ski Mountaineering has been popular for quite some time ... and have introduced their clients to the famous summits of the Alps, as well as the local peaks of the Cascade Range. We have a large number of Alpine Climbers in the Pacific Northwest, many of whom may find that their "next step" is Ski Mountaineering ... thanks to the information in this new and comprehensive guidebook. The large number of excellent pictures makes the text all-the-more understandable. Those Reviewers preceding me have already given a good account of some of the specifics that they've found valuable ... so I won't elaborate here, except to say that the information on avalanche safety is invaluable for ANY one who ventures into the backcountry. We have lost nine lives to avalanches in Washington State already in this season! The authors of this guidebook are Instructors of the AIARE courses, and are passionate about personal safety above all else. I've already sent copies of this "new classic" to some of my best friends! Armed with the knowledge from this book, the readers can venture into the backcountry with newfound confidence and enjoyment of a sport that is bound for increasing popularity worldwide.



4. this book is like a small dictionary defining various aspects of skiing. It has the different types of skiing that can be done, along with the equipment that is neccessary for that type. The book shows various examples of bindings for tele skiing as an example. I have been wanting to get into ski mountaineering and this book helped me form an opinion on what type of skis i need to purchase and what further equipment or training i would need



5. Great information for skiers who are just starting out to those wishing to improve their game. Detailed tips from very experienced skiers, as well as fun, informative photography. Totally recommended.

5 comments about The Traditional Bowyer's Bible, Volume 1.

1. THIS IS the book and series you are looking for to get a great start in making hand made archery equipment !! Well written and insightful it answers many questions and gets you started making a bow of your own quickly. WHAT A BARGAIN - A MUST HAVE SERIES FOR THE BEGINNING BOWYER... SO MUCH HELP FOR ANYONE INTERESTED IN CRAFTING ARCHERY EQUIPMENT.



2. (This review pertains to the first three volumes as a whole. I do not own the new 4th volume ... yet.)
   
   The Traditional Bowyer's Bible can be reviewed fairly briefly.
   
   On the pro side:
   
   - The authors are traditional archery experts.
   - The content is wide-ranging, covering longbows, recurves, flatbows, backed bows, composite bows, takedowns, asymmetrical bows, arrows, nocks, fletching, backings, finishing, tools, etc. Virtually every bow type is represented and from every area of the world and from ancient history to the present day.
   - The books contain original material, such as information on hysterisis.
   - The content covers basics to very advanced topics.
   - Though the authors express individual preferences here and there(bow types, woods, etc.), taken as a whole the material is quite neutral and fact-based.
   - Design is emphasized as much as construction, perhaps more so. I'd go further and say the intent of the series is to teach foundational material and definitely not to present simple how-to instructions. I've made bows using these books, but see comments below, too.
   - There is very little throw-away material, here meaning text that preaches to the choir about the virtues of traditional archery.
   
   On the con side:
   
   - The material is topically organized (e.g., design, tillering, woods). While that's terrific for the topic, it isn't the best for the step-by-step how-do-I-make-a-bow reader. You really have to read the bulk of the material to put it together.
   - These may not be the best books for someone just starting out in traditional archery. The authors presume basic knowledge of archery and terminology. A newcomer, unless extraordinarily enthusiastic, will be overwhelmed.
   - There's a lot of line drawing illustrations. I would prefer photos.
   - The multiple volume approach isn't really necessary, given the size of each, drives up the price of the total, and I would like to see the series published in a single volume.
   
   The cons are nits, however. This book series provides an extremely comprehensive view of traditional archery and is a must-have on the bookshelf of anyone interested in the topic.



3. I am currently about half way through this first volume. I've decided to place the book down for just a moment to give it my review. I'd like to say that this book is far more then what I had expected it to be. As I stand half way through this first volume I feel overwhelmed with an eagerness to continue learning. The way in which the fundamentals are laid out in front of you makes it extremely simple to understand. I am so glad that I've purchased this book. I've decided to purchase the entire series of volumes 1-4. I honestly hope that this review helps the aspiring bowyer to make the right decision, buy this series.



4. A great book, loaded with information. My 12 year old son is now making his first bow out of red oak, and he's been studying this book non-stop. He quotes the authors by name and practically has this memorized. He wants to move to Oregon to get the kinds of wood mentioned in the book, but we've found a way to make a bow out of oak for now, instead...He's looking forward to reading the other volumes.



5. The authors give very good descriptions and instruction on the process of making bows as well as great information on the processes of design and testing of bows.
   
   There is some great historical information as well as lots of practical skills and information that will help you to make your own bow from cutting down a tree to seeing the arrow fly.

5 comments about Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff.

1. In a world filled w/ "opinions", its nice to see a book that draws conclusions which are backed by studies. It is not a giant book, but the pages are filled with educational information that teaches you how the shoulder works, how the shoulder fails, how to strengthen it, and why that's important - all the while citing research studies which are the basis for the author's conclusions and advice. I buy a lot from Amazon but I've never written a review before - that's how impressed I am with this book.



2. I love the no nonsense, get down to the business of fixing your rotator cuff, attitude this book exudes. Super easy to follow along with and really excellent stretches, as well as exercises. I have been trying to fix my shoulder and neck issues for several years now. This book is doing the trick. My pain is lessened in just 2 weeks of owning and using this.



3. I could have saved over $1500 in doctor and physical therapy bills had I read this book after the first Dr visit. If you have shoulder pain, please don't hesitate, buy this book! I now have an immense respect for Jim Johnson.
   
   After 5 months of little progress, I finally found this book and about 6 weeks later I'm back to all my normal sports, full tilt.
   
   The research on strength building and stretching in general was mind blowing! Wow, how could this information be so hidden? Unfortunately, too many people profit from non-health.
   
   JJ will show you the absolute fastest and most efficient way to fix your shoulder. By all means, get several opinions before getting surgery. Both doctors left surgery on the table when my tear was very minor.
   
   Yes, they do not want you to read this book!
   
   Jim, if you're reading this, thank you from the bottom of my heart! You are a great man.
   
   P.S. Even if you never had any back issues, buy his back book. After you build up core strength in your back (2 minutes, 3 times a week, yes, really) then you only need to do it once a week to maintain that strength. And no stretching needed. A small price to pay to avoid back pain.



4. Unlike another critical reviewer here, I think that there is great benefit to understanding how your rotator cuff works before detailing exercises for strengthening it. To this aim, Wikipedia can help greatly. If you can't seem to grasp the information on Wikipedia, maybe this book would be a good bet.
   
   However, I, for one, didn't care for having to sort through pages substance-anemic content to cherry-pick the useful bits; it took me a day to review what I should have been able to glean in one hour.
   
   For example, do I need, in my book on rotator cuffs, to read three pages about how a randomized controlled trial works? IF I don't already know, then I can look it up. Or put it in a glossary; that's what glossaries are for. Do I need to read wordy, precise details of each study? Cite the study, describe the outcome, and be done with it. _Maybe_ put the details in an appendix; either way, I can look it up later if I like. Do I need constant repetition, reminding, and teaching that appears to be geared toward a child? If you read each of these critiques thinking, "that's exactly what I need!" then you won't be disappointed.
   
   "Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff" is not a cheap book, and there honestly isn't a whole lot of content. It _does_ contain some useful information, but getting to this information with the limited table of contents, without section references, with no table of diagrams, with random pointless tangents, and with NO INDEX, can be frustrating.



5. I BOUGHT THIS TO HELP ME WITH SHOULDER PAIN FROM TOO MUCH SQUASH THE BOOK IS FULL OF GREAT EXERCISES AND I WAS ENCOUAGED TO USE IT MORE AND MORE WITH THE EXERCISES AND SOME MASSAGE THERAPY I WAS BACK ON THE SQUASH COURT WITHIN 8 WEEKS I FOUND IT EASY TO READ AND VERY HELPFUL I SUGGEST ANYONE WHO USES IT WITH MASSAGE THERAPY WILL HAVE POSITIVE RESULTS

5 comments about Zen in the Art of Archery.

1. For me this book is first and foremost about Zen. Students of Japanese archery can come to it to take their craft to another level but for me the archery is just a mantle for the teachings to sit on. I've been studying Zen for ten years or so, and have read many great works on the subject. This book was a gentle reminder, ushering me back onto the path. It's wisdom can be applied to almost anything. For a more in depth look at some of the discussions in this book, see Suzuki's Zen and Japanese Culture.
   
   One reviewer, with whom I disagree, says that this book is not a valid source of Zen because the master archer in the book had never "studied" Zen. I think he came in touch with the Zen Mind through his art. The Sixth Patriarch Hui Neng had never "studied" Zen either and came by his enlightenment through living life and carrying fire wood. "Studying" Zen, in terms of following the rituals of an institution, can be formative but is not necessary. Zenmind existed long before the Zen religion.
   
   So whether you're studying Japanese Archery or looking to deepen your awareness of your own art (I study painting, music and Tai Chi), this book can help if you're ready for it.



2. This is not a book on kyudo. As Earl Hartman says in another review, Herrigel did have little contact with kyudo in Japan (3-4 years). This book could be about many interesting things (zen, misticism, ...), but I don't know of them. But it's not a book on Kyudo. It seems more a book on Herrigel himself.
   I don't says this is the worst book someone can read if is interested on kyudo. Last years saw apearing one or two terrible book's with kyudo in title.
   Should be read with precaution and specially doesn't substitute pratice and guidance from a teacher or a master. Many persons come to kyudo allready knowing this book but after a few sessions they give up. and many of them continue to claim that they know about kyudo only by reading this book.



3. This is the famous little book that Minor White advised his pupils to read. It's an account by German professor Eugen Herrigel of several years of archery lessons with a Japanese archer in the 1950s. My review is written with photography in mind, though the principles discussed in the book can be applied to many arts.
   
   If you have an interest in photography, should you read it?
   
   Here are a few quotes from this little book in which I have taken the liberty of replacing archery lingo with photography lingo:
   
   1. "...fundamentally the [photographer] aims at himself and may even succeed in hitting himself."
   
   2. "Do you know why you cannot wait for the shot and why you get out of breath before it has come? The right shot at the right moment does not come because you do not let go of yourself. You do no wait for fulfilment, but brace yourself for failure."
   
   3. "If [the photographer] is to fit himself self-effacingly into the creative process, the practice of the art must have the way smoothed for it. For if, in his self-immersion, he saw himself faced with a situation into which he could not leap instinctively, he would first have to bring it into consciousness."
   
   If these ideas interest you, then this book is for you. It is a pleasing and thought-provoking little book, written in a conversational manner lacking the overcomplicated lingo and "isms" of most philosophical and spiritual texts.



4. I have just re-read Zen and the Art of Archery, by Eugen Herrigel.
   
   I was a philosophy student in my undergraduate days, and my primary focus was on Zen, so I had underestimated that little volume in my youth; it was too short, and too easy to read. And the author didn't make the process sound exotic enough for my arrogant youthful tastes.
   
   But now, Zen and the Art of Archery talks to me through a megaphone. The book recounts the experiences of a German philosophy professor who studied Kyudo (traditional Japanese archery) for several years. He undertook the study to develop his understanding of Zen Buddhism.
   
   As you read the book, you will see that the concepts and practice of traditional Japanese martial arts have leaked into popular U.S. culture. See Karate Kid and Star Wars, for example.
   
   And there's nothing wrong with that.
   
   But when you read this book, you get to see one of the real-world prototypes of Mr. Miyagi and Yoda.
   
   So read it, and thank me later. But don't think you're going to learn to fire arrows. This isn't an instruction manual.



5. I was left with the distinct feeling of having just completed a long journey after finishing this 80 page book. I have been practicing (traditional) western archery for over a year now and I completely agree with many of the tenets of archery that Master Kenzo Awa spoke of. I took up archery because I was interested in the idea of letting the arrow go versus the common mentality of shooting the arrow at the target and this book reiterates that kind of thinking.
   
   I have never undertaken Kyudo so I cannot speak to the accuracy of what was written, but I do know that many of things written by Herrigel, such as breathing exercises and being surprised when you release the arrow, can applied to western archery. I found the author's prattling and difficulties a bit irritating but it is understandable due to Kyudo's complexity. However, I was left skeptical with the author's understanding of "zen", and while he mentioned this idea of the "Great Doctrine" (of archery), I could not find his definition anywhere.
   
   At the end of this text there are a few pages dedicated to archery's relationship to swordsmanship which I understand but felt it was incongruous with the overall feeling of the rest of the book.