The Canon of Judo is the bible of Judo by the man known as the "God of Judo" Kyuzo Mifune. Mifune started learning Judo under Founder Jigoro Kano when he was 13 and was one of only 6 persons ever promoted to 10th Dan at the Kodokan. Mifune not only goes through the Gokyu No Waza (the 40 Basic Judo Throws ) but also includes most of remaining 67 throws along with variations that make up the present Judo throwing syllabus. His section on defenses and counters of both the throws and the grappling is superb with many you won't see elsewhere. He even includes a Ura no Kata that he designed of 15 throws where if your opponent tries throw X; you counter with throw Y. The Canon of Judo is the definitive reference Judo book presently in print.

Be warned that some of the pictures are difficult to figure out due to the poor camera angles, the fact both Mifune and his Uke are wearing white gi's (only ones available back then) in small black and white photos, and some pictures are not in same order from page to page. Some of the technique text is difficult to understand possibly "lost in translation" (though not nearly as bad as the movie by the same name). In spite of it's short comings, it has an overwhelming abundance of information as most of the nearly 1000 photos are easily discernable by the even the novice and intermediate judoka. The more expert can mine the more esoteric photos and cryptic descriptions for the pure nuggets of gold and wealth plentiful in this comprehensive book. I like this book even better than Kodokan Judo by Founder Jigoro Kano (See my review) to which Mifune contributed to and is pictured in for some techniques.

A excellent book written by the "God of Judo". I bought this book together with Dr. Jigoro Kano book "Kodokan Judo". Great books that will give an excellent judo foundation (phylosophical and practical) for anyone, beginner or advanced judo student. A must have book in your collection of Martials Arts books even if you do not practice Judo.