Be mean but be first

[Jim]

Anyone read this book by John Ellery?

I'm getting him to send me a signed copy but not sure what it's like. I know its pretty much more aggro than actual technique but like your views if you've read it.

[Jim]

I guess nobody has heard of/read this book...

I got a *signed* copy of it and it reads like a overhead presentation, but is very real.

[YODA]

Originally posted by Jim
I guess nobody has heard of/read this book...

I got a *signed* copy of it and it reads like a overhead presentation, but is very real.


Nope - never heard of it.

..... More info?

[Jim]

Ummm, what can I tell you. The guy writes about self preservation and descibes *effective* techniques to get out of situations. It specifies types of attacks and advises on regular training in usual clothing that you would be wearing.

See his current job at www.tacforce.com

[hkphooey]

So would you recommend this book, and to beginners/advanced, both?




Ken

[Jim]

Yep. But it's a bit hard to get at the moment. Pretty straight forward but set out like a presentation (not that that's a bad thing).

[hkphooey]

could you give a brief review of it. Techniques or philosophy, Fear management, etc... Nothing big, just to get an idea of what it is. Thank you.




Ken

[Jim]

Okay Ken. I've gotta go home and have a read of it again but I'll do that (just for you - don't tell anyone :D ).

[hkphooey]

But like I said it doesn't have to be anything big and wordy. I don't like to ask too much of people's time, so I'll appreciate what you do share.
(I'll keep it on the down-low or low-down, which ever)



Ken

[Jim]

Ok, I got the book in front of me now and the contents are:

Some background on the author
Warm ups
Mind as a weapon
Footwork
Strikes
Combat combinations
Fighting tactics
Parting words
Acknowledgements

The book covers most of what you are asking about (fear, some street philosophy, etc.) and keeps pretty generalised and to the point. Ways to strike and mindset are two of the major areas that have been covered well.

With strikes he keeps it very simple and effective. He describes not only the strike and where to use it but also ways to practise it and where not to use it.

With mindset he addresses some important points that many MA's don't cover (ie. train in clothes you are most likely to wear in 'normal' life, ways to 'wake up' your mind/motivations, etc.).

Interesting with the pictures he uses not only himself but also members of his family and they all wear sunglasses to protect their identity (being SF for too long makes you paranoid - that's why I got out and also because they were coming to get me ;) )

Hope I've helped, Ken. Let me know if there is anything specific you wanna know about the book.

[hkphooey]

Hey, thank you for the brief. I'll have to put that in a distant future purchase, just bought a couple and have no extra $$$.

Thanks,
Ken