Miyamoto MusashiÆs Book of Five Rings: A Completely New Translation of the Original Japanese Text Hardcover – October 9, 2018

I had also purchased "The Book of Five Rings" written by Musashi (which is also included in this book) but this book has his other writings, and helps put into context "The Book of Five Rings" with footnote explanations and historical context. This book also explains the different manuscripts that have been attributed to Musashi and their reliability.It's a relatively easy and interesting read about a true historical badass and greatest swordsman of Japan.

I have a few versions of the book of five rings. This along with Thomas Cleary's version are my two favorites. I've read through and highlighted many parts of this book over and over again. There's always something new to find and with this version you can delve deeper into the mind of the greatest swordsman to ever live. I'm an avid reader and couldn't live without this book.

Walks you through the history surrounding one of the most laudable swordsmen from Japan. Recommended for those who are serious about learning the history behind the philosophy, art and martial art.

Anyone interested in philosophy should read this book. The book of the 5 rings is insightful. Well written and easy to read. Highly recommend.

Interesting book about an interesting guy

Anyone seriously studying Japanese Swordsmanship should purchase THIS version of Go-Rin-No-Sho. Bennett sensei immediately dispels many of the myths of Miyamoto Musashi propagated through Pop-culture, and the Yoshikawa Eiji novel. This is a fact based historical account of his life and teachings as a martial artist and is the best translation of "The Book of Five Rings," it clearly explains in full historical context, every obscure reference and history behind the book. Furthermore this is the most accurate translation I have read to date, even going so far to explain the different readings of each word, and what Musashi was implying with each statement.Furthermore, this book not only included Go-Rin-No-Sho, but also Musashi's other lesser known works. Heiodokyo, Heiho Kakitsuke, Heiho Sanjugo-Kajo, Goho no Tachi no Michi, Dokkodo, Kokura-hibun.Bennett sensei himself is a master swordsman who not only is a 7dan in kendo, but also the international Naginata-do representative, and co-founder of Kendo-World. Furthermore he holds 2 PHD's and teaches the History of Budo at Kansai University. His credentials in the Japanese swordsmanship community are amazing. This unique perspective clarifies many of the esoteric aspects that most other translations of these works are missing.

This has some of the best knowledge in combat and his story is crazy. One hit killing people with a wooden katana.

There are so many variations of this book you could spend a lifetime trying to compare them. This one puts musashi into a historical context and tries to stay as close to musashi's ideas as possible. Highly recommended.