Ank¿ Itosu is one of the most important figures in the development of modern karate, both a martial art and sport which is practiced today by millions of people worldwide. He not only laid the foundation of modern training but taught a very sophisticated next generation of practitioners who later were essential for spreading this splendid art worldwide. Ank¿ Itosu was born in the Shuri district of Okinawa, the main island of then independent Ry¿ky¿ Kingdom (what is now part of Japan) in the year of 1831, into a time when modernization has not yet started in this part of the world. Coming from a low-ranked family, he grew up in turbulent times, and after a long eventful life he eventually became a legendary figure of the Ry¿ky¿an history. He died in 1915. Looking at his education, his professional career, his dedication to the indigenous fighting arts and his legacy he has left to posterity, the book dives into the life and times of Ank¿ Itosu, the man, the master and the myth.

- "This book is a milestone in the history of Karatedo. I thank Mr. Feldmann for his immense efforts to share his research with us." -- Christian Bellina (Okinawa Seito Karatedo) via FACEBOOK

- "The book provides a useful and interesting read, not only for those concerned with the fighting arts, but for researchers looking for individual experiences of nineteenth-century East Asian life." -- Dr. Amanda Callan-Spenn via THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF THE HISTORY OF SPORT

- "To write this non-novel biography of master Itosu Ank¿ ..., [the author] gathered a huge amount of materials and received the cooperation of many researchers from around the world. ... The result is an easy-to-read but extremely well documented book that is a valuable source of information for any karate enthusiast." -- Miguel Da Luz via OKINAWA KARATE NEWSLETTER

- "This solid biographical study results in a more than recommendable book. To date, it is probably the most complete portrait of Ank¿ Itosu." -- Dr. Eduardo González de la Fuente via REVISTA DE ARTES MARCIALES ASIÁTICAS

- "This book enriches and completes the historiography of karate with the biography of one of its most important personalities." -- Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Herbert via OAG NOTIZEN

- "Anko Itosu," is sure to become a best seller. I enthusiastically support this book and strongly recommend it to any/all passionate about the art, which brings us together." -- Patrick McCarthy via FACEBOOK