"Outstanding analysis of Shu Ha Ri, the developmental principle in Japanese karatedo, that contrasts the philosophical basis of Okinawan karate."
- Noel Smith, Hanshi 9th Dan Yamashita International Budo Association, Kyoshi, 8th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shorinkan, head coach for the US karate team 1973 to 1978, USA Karate Hall of Fame Inductee
“Written with unconditional passion and intellectual depth . . . a masterful explication.”
— William “Bill” Hayes, Hanshi, 10th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shobayashi-Kan, Major United States Marine Corps (RET), Karate Masters' Hall of Fame and the American-Okinawan Karate Association Hall of Fame Inductee, award winning author My Journey with the Grandmaster
“Bayer’s meticulous research and ability to bridge Eastern and Western thought make this book a valuable contribution to martial arts studies. A complex and wonderful read.”
― Dr. James Hatch, EdD, Kyoshi, 7th Dan Chito Ryu, Sichibu Jyuku, martial arts researcher and international educator, Japan
“The most thoughtful and complete book on Shu Ha Ri … ever. This book belongs in your library next to The Bubishi, The Art of War, and The Five Rings.”
— Kris Wilder, 6th Dan Goju-Ryu, black belt Tae Kwon Do and Judo, USA Karate Hall of Fame Inductee, award winning author including The Way of Kata, The Way of Sanchin Kata, and more
“Hermann Bayer is a distinguished scholar-practitioner and a staunch and convincing advocate for the case of recognizing Karate as a cultural heritage of Okinawa. Analysis of Shu Ha Ri in Karate-do is the most comprehensive work on the topic.”
― Dr. Wolfgang Herbert, 6th Dan Shotokan Karate-do, SKIF, martial arts researcher, professor for Comparative Cultural Studies at the University of Tokushima/Japan, author of numerous studies on martial arts, Zen, and Japanese culture
“An enlightening analysis explains how Shu Ha Ri philosophy is applied and differs between today’s martial arts cultures. Worthwhile and highly recommended read.”
— Raymond “Gene” Adkins, Renshi, 6th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shorinkan
“A complex analysis that gives a clear Shu Ha Ri picture and addresses common misconceptions.”
― Thomas E. Ward, Kyoshi, 7th Dan Shorin Ryu Shorinkan