Autumn Lightning: The Education of an American Samurai

Mr. Lowry gets much respect from from me for his writing here. He gives an excellent account of what it might be like to study under a classical Japanese martial arts sensei (not that I would know personally). And he ties in the rise and refinement of his school of swordsmanship along with his personal accounts of training. I have learned a lot from his work here and plan to read more of his writing in the future.I will say this, though. I wish his book was more about his training than the history of his style. While the history was fascinating and I felt it gave me a sliver of the complex history that has made Japanese martial arts what they are today I felt that it was more history that I would have liked to read in what I thought was to be an autobiography. And, I am embarrassed to say, the names of many of the historical figures were somewhat hard to follow without flipping back though the pages. This is partially due to many of them being similar in spelling, such as father and son being named differently only by a couple letters, and partially to do with my being unaccustomed to reading foreign names. Though both of these, while relevant as part of a review, are of no bearing on the author or his work.Bottom line: if you are interested in swordsmanship or train in any martial art, then I highly recommend reading this work.

So I was made aware of this book by an Art of Manliness blog titled, "how to poop like a Samurai." I bought it simply because I wondered what else might be covered. Finding out that the author had written for Karate magazines, which I have to imagine contain centerfolds of Chuck Norris and Bruce Lee, did not do much to improve my expectations.To my surprise, the book was fantastic. The writer does a masterful job of weaving an interesting account of his adolescent training with related historic accounts of the development of Japanese swordfighting styles. I'm a very critical reader, and I could not find fault with this book. As soon as I was done with it I began rereading- which is one of the higher compliments I can pay a book. I highly recommend it.

"Autumn Lightning" by Dave Lowry appeared to me as a combination of biographical sketch mixed generously with Japanese History, and Spirituality.The book (for me) was in itself, a "Fair Read," but not necessarily one that will become part of my spirit. Much of this could however, be due to my age. While reading this book, I was often reminded of the movie; "The Karate Kid." In that movie; "Daniel Larusso" becomes "Miyagi-fied" and is turned into a great Marshal Artist. Likewise, Dave Lowry in this book becomes "Kotaro-fied" and emerges as a great Occidental swordsman.I own one other book by Mr. Lowry on the "Art of Kendo" complete with photographic examples, and many teaching comments that have been very helpful to me.Mr. Lowry writes and teaches out of sheer devotion and love of the subject, and for this; I truly applaud and respect him! I believe this to be a worthy book but, probably for a younger individual looking for a mentor of desciplines that help to develope spirit and physical attributes.

Neat blend of personal journey and the history of a martial way. Dave Lowry has a fantastic breadth of Japanese knowledge both martial and mundane. A master of the sword, brush, and open-hand combat he is also experienced in tea ceremony, flower arranging, and much more. As a young man he serendipitously found a bugei master who he eventually convinced to teach him the way. Early on his sensei proclaimed that, "More is expected of bugeisha then ordinary people." More is what you get in this masterful book. He entices us to follow along the path of his life and training with delightful wit, candor, and humility. I truly enjoyed this book.Lawrence KaneAuthor of Surviving Armed Assaults, The Way of Kata, and Martial Arts Instruction

Easily one of my favorite martial arts books. Lowry juxtaposes his own kenjutsu journey with the history of the Yagyu school. Because of this, the book is constantly changing pace, and pulling the reader into the next chapter. Highly recommend.

Dave Lowry offers a perspective in his books not often available to the Western martial arts practitioner - a considered interpretation of modern martial arts in the context of traditional (koryu) arts.Written in a exceptionally approachable style, Lowry tells the story of his introduction to martial arts, interspersed with anecdotes from Japanese martial history.Lowry's books provide me with insights into my own training and have helped me grow as a martial artist. Rather than the simple discussion of technique, his essays delve into the "-do" of the arts

Enjoyable journey from feudal Japan to today, and back again. Lowry does an excellent job of spanning the centuries while creating a modern narrative.

great

`Autumn Lightning' is another well written book by Dave Lowry that explores the history of the Yagyu Shinkage Ryu, as well as his own start in martial arts. Each chapter alternates between life in feudal Japan and the development of the Ryu and life in America and Dave's personal development. This makes for compelling reading and creates a sense of real connection between martial arts of the past and their practise in up-to-date, contemporary times. Lowry writes with his usual candour and descriptive language and from the first page you will be gripped and your interest held until the very end. Lowry's martial arts integrity shines through and you see how this developed under the tutelage of his Sensei and this makes for encouraging reading for those of us who practise martial arts today. If you've read any of Lowry's other books then you know how good they can be and this is no exception, it has rich, tight language and great martial arts history and left me feeling motivated and inspired. Well worth a look.Feel free to check out my blog which can be found on my profile page.

Well written, insightful and full of fascinating observations on the Japanese martial arts and their symbiosis with the country's culture-all from a Westerner's perspective. This should be purchased together with the follow-up, 'Persimmon Wind' which is equally superb.

This was shown to me by a friendArrived really promptly from Glastonburyvery happy with price of purchase, love this company

A lite enjoyable and interesting read.

Very good!!! Thank-you!!!