A new review has been posted in the AikiWeb
Book database:
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Book Title:
Angry White Pyjamas
Book Author: Twigger, Robert
Review author:
Si Wilson
Rating given: 4 (out of 5)
Review:
I read "AWP" a few years ago, and I enjoyed the book, I was shocked at the reaction to Kancho's death! Also, I found some of the reactions to training, er, disapointing. I gave my copy to my (sadly also Late) teacher, who was once a student of Kancho.
Now, having spoken with a fellow Aikidoka recently who is in the book, I have a better perspective.
It is a good book, but I think it should be remembered the approach that Robert Twigger is taking in his authorship, and the conditions they endured. I would say it is definitely worth reading, particularly by those practicing in unchallenging and comfortable ways.
My teacher disliked some of the commentry, but recognised the conditions, although with a somewhat differing view. I must say that his time in Japan was quite a long time previous to Mr Twigger's time there.
I have given the book 4, as although this is a really good book, there are better books out there to read to learn about Aikido, and I am sure that wasn't the idea of AWP.
For Aikido reading there are many excellent books, especially "Aikido Shugyo" (Shioda Sensei) and "Budo" (O'Sensei, plus "Dynamic Aikido" & "Total Aikido" (Shioda Sensei) for Yoshinkan style Aikido.
Osu
