Although the title says "...Karate...", this book can be used by anyone involved in any striking art. This is not a how-to book, instead it gives a brief description of a move (to make sure the reader understands what's happening) with one or two photos, then goes on to describe what is the likely outcome to the person getting hit. It's a good book because it reminds you (especially if you're relatively inexperienced) that your moves can paralyze or kill, which the law may not agree with in the realm of self-defense. It is a good book and I do recommend.

The author went to great lengths to analyze the effects of common karate blows. This has implications for appreciating "soft" forms of self defense as compared with those forms most ameniable to full contact with protection gear. The book in effect documents the effects "soft" (low inertia) blows can have on vital points. The forward to the book is well written also by a professional educator, enthusiast, and instructor (Chris Town.) ;)