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Summary: An outstanding literary masterwork, and a very good read.
Review: I have read, quite literally, many thousands of books thus far in my life. I say this to emphasize that it is no small statement when I say that I recommend this book. It is without a doubt one of the best books I've ever read, and even merits re-reading.For sheer entertainment value, the characters are vibrant and alive. The reader comes to care for them and to understand their unique viewpoints. The settings and situations, too, are easy to visualize. The true value of the book, though, is in it's ability to transport us effortlessly into it's world, and to teach us lessons in life almost before we are aware of it. From a deeper perspective, the non-Japanese reader will come away with a better understanding of Japanese culture and values. In my opinion, this book truly deserves a five star rating.
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Summary: Clear Your Schedule
Review: Working where and as I do, I'm a regular patron of fast food restaurants. So when I finally go out and have a real meal, I'm always shocked at how GOOD it is. Similarly, reading this book made me feel I had been reading all the wrong stuff the previous three years. A definite page-turner, despite the somewhat unusual style - some things are over-explained, others are given a cursory treatment. The ending will, believe it or not, leave you wanting more. I'm pretty sure I'll be re-reading this book at least once a year.
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Summary: This epic compells the reader to observe the power of life.
Review: Everyman's journey whether contemplated in depth or lightly brushed over many years has the richness that the Musashi epic details. I have seen this movie in by least 4 different directors over the span of 40 years. The book details the zen that the cinemaphotography/acting of the 6 part movie ( not Toshiro Mifune - samurai series )has. The desperation of the times, elegance and brutality of the samurai code is not for everyone.Having seen some of Miyamoto Mushasi's paintings, metalurgical artifacts, calligraphy... the man himself was a self-actualized individual. A book is merely a book. Whether Tolkein, Crighton, Faulkner, Hemmingway...however, this book survives in me and in reverence whereas the others were merely entertaining. Its not the author of the book, it was the man himself who was merely a man.
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Summary: Excellent book
Review: This book is the basis for the movie "Samurai Trilogy". The movie is very good, but, as usually is the case, the book is even better. i found it very hard to put down. I would strongly recommend it to anyone interested in samurai story and Zen.
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Summary: Best book I ever read
Review: The warrior's code is exemplified in this inspirational story
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Summary: Immortal, superb and unchallenged in every way
Review: The character Musashi although was a Japanese, represent ourselves. Just like us, he had to undergo puberty passages. It was hard nonetheless, but only completing the passage he became a man. The search of The Way of Sword is his puberty passage. This is what that keep Musashi immortal throughout the generations. A Hero With Thousand Faces.
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Summary: Epic. . .
Review: This book should be compared with all other great epics in world literature. So much is understated, as is typical for classical Japanese literature, but the author does not sacrifice historical detail. A Naturalist, Yoshikawa paints a great picture of life in Feudal Japan. His research, too, is excellent, but doesn't get in the way of telling a great story. At times, the writing style is almost child-like, and I think that owes itself to difficulties in translation. There is, in this book, really a serial plot (the book is also offered in a five-part paperback series). I don't know how it was first presented, but the multiple story lines and parallel characterizations don't detract. They do give this book a feeling of almost being a well thought out screen play, without any loss to the narrative. From other reading I have done, there seems to be a fair amount of latitude given to historical reality. Yoshikawa picked and chose the events of Musashi's life that he thought best-characterized an enigmatic and difficult character. But it is the growth of that character that is central to the story, and his focus there is well rewarded. With some of the same psychological distance shown by Cormac McCarthy, and the same ability to spin a great historical tale as Patrick O'Brian, Yoshikawa has written a great book that can lead you into the chrysalis of the Japanese mind.
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Summary: The best book I've ever read, by one heck of a long shot
Review: This book is by far--and I can't stress the words "by far" enough--the best I've ever read. And I've read plenty. Not only will you learn Japanese history in addition to reading a gripping, page-turning book you can't put down, but the philosophy and depth of thought goes beyond anything I've ever read. This book is about a man who is misguided and ignorant, but soon learns the error of his ways, tries to perfect his skill in the sword, but then embarks upon a spiritual journey to attain perfection. This isn't a fairy tale, this isn't cheesy, mass-manufactured samurai garbage--this is Japanese literature at its best, and some of the best literature I've laid eyes upon. I would recommend it to everyone who wants to learn about Japan, is interested in Japan, or is interested in any of the philosophical ideas presented within. You don't have to be Japanese to like or appreciate or understand this book, and don't be scared at the size. There's no word in there that doesn't belong. I know I'm rambling--but I can't praise this book enough.
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Summary: THE ULTIMATE SAMURAI NOVEL
Review: Nothing really comes close to "Musashi". It has a soul and spirit that touches you long after you've put the book down. Superior to Clavell's "Shogun" in every respect, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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Summary: This book touches many truths about true zen.
Review: The zen and buddhist philosophies have never been related as well before than in this book. Through the stories contained within the reader begins to understand more of the essences of enlightment and what it truly means. I felt very humbled by it, and at the same time, very happy.
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