5 stars (Comprehensive and useful) - This kata manual has taken me through blackbelt. The illustrations show the moves, the timing line shows the speed and focus of each move. The number of kata represented, 25, makes this an excellent value. WHat may put some readers off is the use of japanese terms for various moves, but I find it fun to know. Also helpful is the translation to spanish. 5 stars (The best book to get a fast start on any kata) - Many people, especially beginners, have a problem picking up moves of a kata from somebody else (your sensei) performance. This book gives an excellent head start on most popular katas and enormously shortens the learning curve. Pictures in the book show exactly the right amount of details to minimize a confusion and emphasize moves and stances. 5 stars (Outstanding Reference Work) - Shojiro Sugiyama has produced one of the most useful reference books on shotokan karate available. Each kata movement is clearly described. The sketches are very helpful. This is a great book! ... Shojiro Sugiyama :: Karate :: Sports & Recreation :: Sports :: Martial Arts & Self-Defense :: Handbooks & Manuals :: Shojiro Sugiyama :: :: 25 Shoto-Kan Kata
