Review
"At last! The martial arts have long awaited a book on genuine
iaidõ. It could only have been done properly through a Japanese-American collaboration like this—Master Shimabukuro, with his unparalleled expertise and classical training, and Mr. Pellman, who has translated this unique philosophy into understandable Western terms.
Flashing Steel will be a true milestone of the art."
—Alfonso Gomez, Martial Arts Director, University of California, San Diego, CA
“Why would a t’ai chi ch’uan student and instructor for over twenty years want to take up
iaidõ? I was curious, initially, to explore a different tradition and approach. But I have been captivated by the experience and insights
iaidõ offers. It begins with a stillness, an upright posture, breath natural, mind calm. Then the draw: the bright flash and hiss of steel that reveal the subtle qualities of the substantial (sword) cutting through the insubstantial (air). I encourage others—newcomers or current
iaidõ enthusiasts—to acquire this remarkable took and explore the mysteries of
iaidõ.”
—Michael Conniry, T’ai Chi Ch’uan Instructor, Grossmont/Cuyumaca Colleges, El Cajon, CA
About the Author
Born in 1948 in Osaka, Japan, Shimabukuro Shihan
is currently 7th dan in Musa Jikiden Eishin-Ryu Iaijutsu, and holds the coveted title of Kyoshi (Warrior Instructor). As chairman of the Nippon Kobudo Jikishin-Kai USA and the Nippon Kobudo Jikishin-Kai International, he is responsible for disseminating Eishin-Ryu Iaijutsu and maintaining its high standards of instruction in all countries outside of Japan. His duties regularly take him throughout North, Central, and South America.
Pellman Sensei was first introduced to traditional Japanese martial arts at the age of 14 when, in 1966, his parents enrolled him in a judo school in San Diego, California. His fascination with
iaijutsu began in 1973 and he started studying with Shimabukuro Hanshi in 1991. As a senior member of the Nippon Kobudo Jikishin-Kai USA, Pellman Sensei currently heads the Indiana branch dojo of the Jikishin-Kai.