Jiu Jitsu: An Exposition of the Japanese National System of Physical Training and Self-Defense

Rochester, New York: Yabe School of Jiu-Jitsu, 1904. 1st . Paperback. Good. First printing. 32 + (1) pp., frontis port. of Mr. Yabe (with printed "signature" of Mr. Yabe), full-page illustrations showing: come-along hold, vital touch, walking with hands on knees (exercise), the struggle (demonstrated by two women), President Roosevelt, softcover book in light-brown wraps, about 5" X 7". Subject headings include: Explanatory, Origin of the Japanese Nation, What Jiu-jitsu Is and Means, Jiu-jitsu vs Boxing, What Jiu-jitsu Will Do for You, Jiu-jitsu a Blessing to Women, Jiu-jitsu Successfully Taught by Mail, What Constitutes the Course, Description of the Courses, How Knowledge of Jiu-jitsu Saved Sherlock Holmes Life, Advantages of a Correspondence Course, President Roosevelt Endorses Jiu-jitsu, A Guarantee of Success, Cost of Course. This book serves as an introduction to and promotion for the full five-part Yabe School course. A very fragile item printed on cheap-quality paper. A complete copy, but overall edge-wear with short nicks and small chips here and there. The front cover was detached but has been neatly repaired. A semi-transparent red cellophane protective cover was installed by an early owner and has served to protect the book quite well, but has left some tape shadows. The cover states "The Yabe School of Jiu-jitsu" in English, plus has some Japanese lettering. The rear cover has the Japanese flower symbol. Scans available. Very rare and interesting item, the only one we've seen. The individual course volumes are rare but do come up occasionally.