The Shotokan Karate Dictionary: Japanese Technical Terms Used in Karate

There have been three earlier editions of this work. This one has transmuted to color and has new material. The author points out that his book is for reference and is not a training manual. However, I find that the clarity of basic concepts and terms elevate it to something that students should possess from the beginning of their martial journey.

Japanese pronunciation is given with simplicity and examples. Simple numeration is shown, and the indexes of English and Japanese terms are extensive. All of this makes for ease of use and good research yield.

Sensei Schlatt lays out the three pillars of Karate: Kihon (basic training), Kata (forms), and Kumite (sparring). He also uses these as the organizational framework for his dictionary.

Karate has many schools and divisions. However, from my own exposure to several of them (on a decidedly low-performing level), this excellently organized and illustrated work would be valuable for affiliates of any of them.

Well published, the volume should endure years of inquiry. Photographic illustration and portraiture are rarely fine.