Customer Reviews

Shadow Strategies of an American Ninja Master

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Glenn Morris picks up where he left off in his first book, "Path Notes of an American Ninja Master" (1993). This is not an instructional book on ninjutsu per se (no pictures), although it is chok-full of Morris's further journey on the martial arts /ninpo path (Bujinkan style under Masaaki Hatsumi), anecdotes and interpretations of philosophy, both Asian, Occidental, and other. I found it similar in some ways to Robert Smith's book, "Martial Musings". Some of Glenn Morris's most interesting views he presents in Chapter 9, "Characteristics of Shugyosha Across Cultures" (page 169). Shugyosha he defines as a person who is searching for the truth...I have a feeling that this is what Morris is doing with his series of books.

There is also the enjoyably opinionated Chapter 11, "Mud and Water, Purity and Power" where Morris allows his biases against other well known (sometimes questionable) martial artists of our time, to hang out in the wind. Among them Harunaka Hoshino (originally known as Chi Yuan) who created his own ninpo art from Japanese karate and kobudo during the ninja boom, Choi Hong-hi of Taekwon-Do whom he lambasts as having earned only shodan (1st black belt) before his return to Korea from Japan (now, now--nobody promoted Hatsumi sensei to 15th dan), and Genbukan Ninpo's Shoto Tanemora, once a student of Ninja Great Masaaki Hatsumi (and others) whom he dismisses as "...another cop..." with robotic movements (page 244). Some of the criticisms are fair, some are not...Morris doesn't bother to share his sources.

I don't accept Glenn Morris's interpretations and claims concerning the many things supernatural/psychic which pepper his writings--but if I only read things I agreed with, I wouldn't be living! I am, I admit, a cautious skeptic. I find Morris to be overly generous in the way he doles out his faith, often optimistic in accepting theories and studies which have not been scientifically counducted or checked, although even he draws the line at things like Alien abductions (see Chapter 13, pages 312-316). On the other hand, his insights are honest, and personal. In sharing his beliefs, he hides nothing, holds back nothing. Reading between the (esoteric) lines without any adaptation or interpretation, I find much of the advice he offers on this volume to be homespun, and often sensible.

Morris seems a cross between a scholar-warrior and a pseudo-intellectual hippy. This book is entertaining and fun to read. You don't have to share the man's opinions or beliefs to enjoy his adventures. If you enjoy martial arts autobiographies, or reading the personal thoughts of other people, this volume is just the thing.

This book is a must for anyone trying to delve into the myseteries of the self. May be of particular interest to Jungian Psychologists out there due to the discussion of the Shadow and how it manifests in various aspects of the American culture. As always, pay attention to the reccommended readings that Shidoshi Morris mentions. A very jam-packed book of useful strategies.... you might want to take a refresher course on universal symbolism to get the most out of the book.

this and path notes are probably the most important and influential books i've read on the esoteric subjects of spirituality, meaning, self-exploration, enlightenment, kundalini, meditation, and the mysteries of life. If you seek you shall find; reading Glenn's books will take you one step closer.

At the risk of being redundant, I just wanted to echo some sentiments already expressed here. You have to read Dr. Morris's work in a certain frame of mind because every paragraph is a jewel waiting to be discovered and embraced.

Like others have said, it is not a "How-To" book on ninjutsu, but an essay on enlightenment and especially on the physical component of enlightenment. I can't count the times I have reread this book and every time found myself smiling at some new gem.

In places it borders on ridiculous and you ask yourself, "How could he expect me to believe this?" But living in that world of possibilities for a moment is part of the joy.

If you want to be a human being...and really, who doesn't?...come study Dr. Morris's map of how he got there.

Don't forget Path Notes of an American Ninja Master for which I cut and pasted this same darn review.

HEY!!! Be prepared to study his section on the Go-Dai hard!!!

One of the best books I have ever read. Read this along with his first book, pathnotes, and if the books resonate with you, you will enter a process of change like never before. His concepts, ideas, and breadth of knowledge on the esoteric secrets of martial arts and the pursuit of enlightment are what made me decided to take his KAP course. For those who want to go throught he biological process of enlightenment through rasing the kundalini, i highly recommend this book as a starting point.

Glenn Morris furthers the subjects he originally touched on in his book "Path Notes," and also gives even more insights into his experiences with meditation, things that go "bump" in the night (as well as the mind!), and his experiences in the martial arts. His insights are useful in exploring the inner workings of the mind, the body, and the spirit, as well as expanding your knowledge of your OWN martial art, whether it be aikido, kung fu, karate, ninjutsu, or whatever.

And, to make matters even better, check out his reading list / bibliography for an even more intense mind screw! :)

Shadow Strategies is another excellent write by Dr. Morris. This one can, and has been, used for academic reference as well. It's Chock Full O' Nuts and Bolts info.Read carefully and slowly, it's a meal. Peace and Enjoy! Howard A. Davis, The Black Tiger

This guy is just amazing. He comes back to answer all of the questions you had from the first book. If you miss these you are missing the chance to improve every aspect of your life. It makes it easier to laugh at all our demons. Mr Morris is uncanny in his observations and ability to relay such amazing information. Definate must for any one interested in martial arts, self-improvement or self-exploration.

This is a wild book, yet it all works and brings the methods of budo up to date for the modern strategist trying to get a life.

This and Morris' book Path Notes, should be read by everyone. I think the world would be a better place. He is the most inspiring author I have ever read.