Kaufman's interpretation is the only translation I have been able to use in the field — specifically to enhance the frame of mind of the athletes I coach before the ultimate testing ground: competition. As a tool for learning and applying strategy in professional sport, I have found it invaluable.
Kaufman's interpretation created the same images my masters instilled in me — I even felt like my instructors were actually standing over me, explaining each mindset. He does a superb job of translating ancient Japanese to modern English while still maintaining the original teachings. A must for the serious person who wants to pursue kenjutsu while gaining a better understanding of the spirit of the thing.
I first contacted Hanshi Kaufman after reading his translation of The Book of Five Rings. I was studying the exploits of Miyamoto Musashi and had some questions. There was an email address at the back of the book, so I used it — and I've been hounding him ever since. One of the most knowledgeable men I've ever spoken with. Like a university professor with a New York edge. I am honored to call this man Hanshi. I am fortunate to call him Mentor.
I was not, in any way, shape, or form prepared for meeting Hanshi Stephen Kaufman. To say this man is special is without question. Hanshi Kaufman is truly responsible for the inordinate consciousness raising of all of us in the arts. The first time a friend handed me a copy of The Martial Artist's Book of Five Rings, it blew me away — this was not another martial arts book. This could only have been written by someone who lives the life.
Kaufman does an excellent job of translating the text. The book conveys a vital sense of physicality in its writing. This version pays additional attention to passages that discuss individual combat. Overall, Kaufman's translation comes out sounding precisely like it was written by the man he claims to be — one who has practiced karate for over forty years and studied the rings for another ten.
Both books have provided pillars of instruction within my leadership classes. Kaufman builds his view for leaders and CEOs by extrapolating his insights for practical organizational application. The Sword in the Boardroom addresses workplace issues such as job satisfaction, work motivation, and productivity. Executives would do very well to read this book. Moreover, re-reading would reinforce the message.
Hanshi Kaufman's Ultimate Guide to Self-Defense touches the very essentials of the martial arts and empowers one to achieve that which they might think they cannot. It's like a summation of decades of knowledge and expertise — a mental and physical must-have, in a book that doubles as a training manual. I wish I had it fifty years ago.
Hanshi Steve Kaufman, one of America's Fathers of Martial Arts — sixty years of dedication and a world-renowned author. He has earned the respect of the martial world. He is a true American treasure, a wealth of knowledge that has yet to fully be tapped into. Everyone should read his books, view his videos, and seek him out while we still have the opportunity to talk with him face to face and draw from his vast experience.
Silent Moon — The Story of a Sword is a terrific read for all. From page one, I was ingeniously thrown into chaos and conflict. I was intrigued when the story began to revolve around one particular samurai sword, created five hundred years prior, and discovering all the people involved over the centuries that came into contact with it. Silent Moon — whose hands will you fall into next?
