Self-Defense Nerve Centers and Pressure Points for Karate, Jujitsu and Atemi-Waza by Bruce Tegner

A good book for some-one looking for the basics. The author offers an "ethical" approach to martial arts which is quite refreshing. He also demystifies many of the assumptions made about pressure points. A good starting point - but don't expect to be an expert in the arts of nerve point strikes after reading this. Represents good value for what you get.

The book is also loaded with a plethora of pictures and maps showing all the body's natural vulnerable areas. Bruce Tegner is an excellent author. Mr. Tegner explains in detail the legal definition of what self-defense is and what it is not. He did a ton of reseach to make this book. For example, he debunks all the mythical "deadly blows" and he talks about how television shows and Hollywood have heavily distorted what actual self-defense is. This will seriously educate anyone about what real self-defense is.

Jiu Jitsu Complete by K. Nakae

First published in 1958, this is still amongst the best book on demonstrating basic techniques. It is an invaluable reference on any martial art instructor's shelf.

Do not be fooled by the simplicity of this book. Much like the many illustrations, the excercises and techniques are powerful and may even be dangerous if not taken seriously. The book should not be mistaken for a Crash Course.

Long practice hours ARE necesary in order to master the techniques gracefully.

Accompanied by meditation, a balanced diet and an attitude of respect towards your surroundings, I feel that the excercises in this book may provide a healthy lifestyle to anyone interested in learning more about Jiu Jitsu

Jujitsu Nerve Techniques: The Invisible Weapon of Self-Defense by George Kirby

If you are interested in exploring the concepts and application of nerve techniques then this book is a must-have. With an extensive nerve reference chart and tips on training and drills, this book reads more like a text book than a casual reference guide.

The techniques presented show how to incorporate shioku-waza (nerve techniques) into your own art with little modification. Although the pictures are sometimes too small to pick up all of the detail, Kirby has cross-referenced each nerve used to the chart at the beginning of the book. Martial artists will not be disappointed.

Jiu Jitsu: The Black Belt Syllabus: The Official World Jiu Jitsu Federation Training Manual by Robert Clark

Although it does not necessarily live up to its title's promise, many found this book to be an excelent way to introduce Jui Jitsu to students and it helped experienced martial artists and instructors became familiar with the finer points of grappling and submission fighting.