History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

Silken Threads: A History of Embroidery in China, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam

Average customer rating:

Stunning Beauty
Textile Treasures - a review by Jocelyn Chatterton.
Silken Threads reviewed by Judith Rutherford
Silken Threads reviewed by Marilyn Gardner Hamburger

Silken Threads: A History of Embroidery in China, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam
Young Yang Chung
Manufacturer: Harry N. Abrams
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0810943301

Book Description

Master embroiderer and world-renowned textile historian Young Yang Chung brings a wealth of new information to light in Silken Threads, to date one of the most authoritative and comprehensive guides to the origins, history, aesthetics, and cultural context of embroidered textiles in East Asia. Lavishly illustrated with photographs of magnificent dragon and bridal robes, rank badges, kimonos, and other gorgeous embroidered textiles, this book is not only an indispensable reference in the field but also a delight to the eye.

The reader will discover in greater detail than ever before the fascinating evolution of the elaborately embroidered rank badge, a crucial element of clothing for all government officials at court in East Asian cultures. Chung's recent findings about Korean and Vietnamese embroidery traditions are also new to this book. The author's many revelations, uncovered through intensive research since the publication of her 1979 book The Art of Oriental Embroidery, should settle longstanding debates among textile scholars. AUTHOR BIO: Young Yang Chung, world-renowned embroiderer, is the author of Abrams' Painting with a Needle. Her 1979 book, The Art of Oriental Embroidery, was the first English-language book devoted to the development of silk embroidery in East Asia. She divides her time between her native Korea and New York. Robert D. Mowry is the Alan J. Dworsky Curator of Chinese Art at the Harvard University Art Museums.

Customer Reviews:

Stunning Beauty.......2006-11-10

I splurged and ordered this book, and am I glad that I did. It was a jaw-dropping feast for the eyes, and well-worth ever penny spent on it.

The photographs are absolutely amazing, the details are brought to light
exceptionally well, and the text illuminates this Asian craft world just
perfectly.

One of the best features of this volume is that one can readily SEE in detail the various works of the needleworker's arts from each timeper-
iod, providing as an added bonus, inspiration for one's own embroidery.

I highly recommend this book, for needleworkers and designers and for
the aficionado of handwork arts.

Textile Treasures - a review by Jocelyn Chatterton........2006-05-03

This comprehensive account of East Asian embroidery is a must for any textile collector. Beautifully illustrated throughout and wonderfully informative it educates and feasts the eye. The photographic details are very clear and provide a good indication of the different textures. There is also a useful, fully comprehensive bibliography encouraging further exploration of this fascinating subject.

Silken Threads reviewed by Judith Rutherford.......2006-03-23

Silken Threads leads the reader through a wonderful journey charting the evolution of the embroidery of the East Asian region.

Dr. Chung apart from being a Master Embroiderer, and probably the only women in the word who has had a Museum named after her in her native Korea, is also a well respected Art Historian. This is not a "how to" book but a serious study of the history and art as it relates to the embroidery of China, Japan, Korea and Vietnam.

It is well illustrated and reflects the many years of study that Dr. Chung has spent researching this absorbing area of study.

Silken Threads reviewed by Marilyn Gardner Hamburger .......2006-03-17

Silken Threads is real winner ! Collectors, Asian Art scholars ,and Costume designers ,both fashion and theater,will find this book an indispensable reference work in the field of East Asian embroidered textile and costume. What this book is NOT is a "how-to" on embroidery.

Dr.Chung gives a comprehensive history of the evolution of East Asian embroidery and the significant contributions it has made to the cultural history of the region. The influence of China and the dissemination of Chinese techniques , motifs and artistic convention on other regions in East Asia are thoroughly discussed. The author examines in depth a wide variety of embroidered costume ,accessories,household furnishings and religious textiles.

Perhaps the most valuable aspect of this book,and there are many,is its pioneering effort in the field of Vietnamese textiles and
costume,a subject largely ignored before this publication .

Silken Threads is a exemplary production of scholarship,beautifully illustrated and completely documented .Dr.Chung's grasp of her subject represents the culmination of many years of extensive research by a leading authority on East Asian embroidered textiles .

Average customer rating:

Modern Korean cinema at an easy glance
Mistitled, but a just-passable introductory piece for newcomers
A good primer to recent Korean Cinema
There should be more books like this
I hope there's a sequel!

Korean Cinema: The New Hong Kong
Anthony Leong
Manufacturer: Trafford Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1553954610
Release Date: 2006-07-06

Book Description

You don't have to look very far these days to see the influence that the film industry of Hong Kong has had on moviemaking around the world. Hong Kong film stars, such as Jackie Chan, Chow Yun-fat, Jet Li, and Michelle Yeoh, have become household names headlining Hollywood blockbusters, while directors such as John Woo, Tsui Hark, and Wong Kar-wai are closing deals in Tinseltown and developing huge international followings.

Despite achieving such recognition abroad, the luster on Hong Kong's homegrown film industry has faded quite a bit over the past decade. However, many Hong Kong cinema aficionados, who passionately followed the rise of the 'Hong Kong New Wave' during the Eighties and early Nineties, only to become increasingly disenchanted since then, are now looking to South Korea for Asia's boldest and most innovative films.

Since 1998, South Korea's local film industry has undergone a remarkable transformation. A new generation of Korean moviemakers is revitalizing the industry with bold arthouse productions, big-budget actioners, thought-provoking dramas, and subversive satires. In some circles, South Korea is even being likened to the new 'Hong Kong', with its film industry on the verge of exploding onto the world stage, similar to how the 'Hong Kong New Wave' catapulted the former British colony and its groundbreaking films into the international spotlight. Already, some Korean films have found success in the North American market arthouse circuit, while Korean directors are being courted by major Hollywood studios for lucrative U.S. remake rights.

"Korean Cinema: The New Hong Kong" is a guidebook for exploring this new and exciting treasure trove of cinema. It is the first book of its kind, covering this emerging cinematic powerhouse in an easy-to-read and leisure-focused fashion, bringing all the sought-after information on Korean cinema into one convenient package. Within the pages of Korean Cinema: The New Hong Kong, you will find:

* A brief history of South Korea and its film industry, which will help you understand the reasons behind the revolutionary changes in Korean cinema and what is influencing the country's directors

* A look at the present state of Korea's filmmaking industry and how it resembles the dot-com era (with the only difference being that these companies are actually making money, and lots of it)

* An examination of the characteristics, themes, and dominant genres of the films in this newest 'Korean New Wave'

* In-depth reviews and commentary of the top ten must-see films of this latest 'Korean New Wave'

* An overview of the top genres of Korean cinema, with reviews, commentary, and notes on availability for the good, the bad, and the ugly

* A look at the stars of Korean cinema, such as the Korean equivalents to Tom Cruise (Han Suk-kyu) and Julia Roberts (Shim Eun-ha).

* How moviegoers can go about seeing Korean flicks (with English subtitles too!)

So sit back, relax, and get ready to be introduced to Korean Cinema: The New Hong Kong!

Download Description

Korean Cinema: The New Hong Kong is a guidebook for exploring the new and exciting destination for exciting and innovative cinema: South Korea. It is the first book of its kind, covering this emerging cinematic powerhouse, which has been likened to Hong Kong, in an easy-to-read and leisure-focused fashion, bringing all the sought-after information on Korean cinema into one convenient package.

Customer Reviews:

Modern Korean cinema at an easy glance.......2007-07-25

The odd grammatical and printing error aside, this is a well-produced and easy to use guide to some of the best film-making of the last ten years or so.

It's worth noting quickly that despite the glossy cover, the book is entirely black-and-white inside with pictures that are of an acceptable rather than brilliant quality. Personally, I find this to be a very minor quibble.

I was already very enthused by recent Korean cinema before reading this book and have enjoyed it very much, but it would also make an ideal introduction for someone only just thinking of dipping their toes into the invigorating waters of the Korean New Wave.

I can't fully appreciate the frequent comparisons made with Hong Kong film-making of the 1980s having seen very little of it, but it hardly matters; this book puts across in no uncertain terms just how exciting the film scene in Korea has been for the last decade, and it would be a hard-hearted person who isn't stimulated to seek out a DVD or a viewing of some of the films reviewed here.

This is not to say, however, that the book is unbalanced. The author's enthusiasm for Korean cinema is obvious, but does not stop him criticising those films - some, even, that have done very well at the box office - that he considers do not come up to scratch.

The book is sensibly laid out to make it easy to either read straight through or dip into for specific information. It begins with a brief - and NOT heavy-going - history of the Korean film industry coming right up to the beginning of the 21st century. There then follows a chapter of in-depth reviews of 10 of the best Korean films that 'Everyone Should See'. After that the chapters are divided up by film genre (Action, Horror, etc.), and there are 87 (yes, I counted!) high-quality reviews in all. The last few chapters introduce some of the rising stars of the industry, give some assistance to those wishing to find and see these films, and look to the future of Korean film-making.

The only major disappointment for me was that due to the book's having been published in 2002, wonderful films such as A Bittersweet Life, Memories of Murder and Save the Green Planet! are not included, having been released from 2003 onwards. It would be silly to complain about this type of issue since it is inevitable, but here's hoping for a new edition of Korean Cinema: The New Hong Kong sometime soon because the cinematic gems just keep on coming!

Mistitled, but a just-passable introductory piece for newcomers.......2005-12-22

KOREAN CINEMA: THE NEW HONG KONG is clearly the product of a genuine convert to the form. Whether Anthony C.Y. Leong has remained so is anyone's guess as of late, but it indeed comes as a small surprise that this book was written by a regular contributor to Thomas Weisser's execrable ASIAN CULT CINEMA magazine, a publication that has done more to pigeonhole Asian cinema into one gigantic bowl of sex and sadism than any Pink-film-loving pervert could do in a lifetime.

From evidence provided here, though, Leong's passion for movies (which is also evidenced via various online review portals, the style here being little better than that) is better served by self-published efforts such as this than it is sandwiched between the salacious and error-ridden pages of Weisser's rag. Weisser's ASIAN CULT CINEMA book, a late-90's reference guide to Hong Kong cinema that has disseminated more MISinformation to the world than any fifty amateur fanzines could circa 1990, is still being peddled to an unsuspecting base of newcomers (I've yet to ascertain whether Leong was a contributor, but it's likely), so it's refreshing to know that viewers curious about Korean cinema at least have a reference guide that, while not blessed with particularly great prose, is at least honest and forthight in its appreciation of its subject matter, without resorting to the cheap putdowns and mysogynist leanings of the Weisser material with which its author, perhaps unwittingly, has previously been associated.

Leong is, however, WAY WAY OFF BASE in labelling Korean cinema "The New Hong Kong." The assumption that one country's cinematic fare is so lacking in cultural identity that it stands only to supplant the fare of another country - following that all Asian cinema somehow "blends" together in the eyes of outsiders - is simplistic and ill-informed to say the least. Leong, who is Chinese, makes repeated commentary about the downfall of Hong Kong cinema while holding Korean cinema up as the natural successor to the throne. Hong Kong cinema, however, is still very much alive and kicking, and while Korean cinema has certainly enjoyed a renaissance of sorts (both domestically and internationally) since the release of the high-tech action thriller SHIRI in 1999, nearly seven years on, many Korean films are still plagued by tired concepts, poorly-plotted screenplays, crass histrionics, and various culturally-specific idosyncracies that may yet be their undoing in the international market once the demand for genre pictures has dried up (as I write this, the Korean DVD market is in a serious state of financial decline). (2007 EDIT: much of this has come to pass: Korean films are garnering fewer distribs at film festivals, and they're lucky if they get one or two breakout smashes a year; DVD sales are nearlly dead in the country. They're still making films worth watching, but the industry is in serious pain right now.

However, Leong's book generally covers films from 1998 to 2002, which any Korean film fan will tell you is the period they first "discovered" Korean cinema, too. And as such, the book clearly is/was a labour of love. More scholarly books have been written on Korean cinema both before and since Leong's self-published tome, but none have ventured to simply provide straight-up reviews of the many varied films that came from this period, so depite his web-forum-worthy writing style, Leong still managed a small victory for the fanboys.. Mind you, scholarly works on Korean cinema (and Korea itself!) are virtually required reading--I strongly prefer them to a book like this--if one is to truly understand the cultural subtext running through much of modern Korean cinema. Thus, Leong's book stands as the best place to START your journey, but once you've seen the films, and if you truly want to know more, then it might be good to augment this book with a more serious cultural, cinematic or even socio-political study.

The format of Leong's reviews is a bit too structurally consistent (intro-synopsis-opinion-rinse-repeat), which means they're best digested a few at a time, preferably just before of just after watching the film in question, which will at least grant the book an extended shelf life as the reader builds a Korean DVD collection. Also, the reviews are grouped into "categories," which is restrictive, particularly as many of the films aren't so easily pigeonholed. It's a small gripe, admittedly, but straightforward alphebetical listings would be much more user-friendly.

Since the book's publication at the very beginning of 2003, however, Korean cinema has produced an incredible number of feature films -ranging from derivative-but-pretty junk like MY BOYFRIEND IS TYPE B and RED EYE to international arthouse darlings like OLDBOY and TAE GUK GI - that would be well served by an update to Leong's manuscript, something which has yet to take place but would firmly cement his position as one of the few non-internet-based reviewers to tackle the subject matter in this way. One hopes that the visible reduction in his output might mean he's working on a revised version of his book, but as he's not one to return emails from interested supporters (especially those who are, at the same time, like myself, openly hostile towards his previous "employer," Miami-based bootlegger and "author" Thomas Weisser), we may simply have to wait and see what comes next, if anything...

A good primer to recent Korean Cinema.......2005-11-19

I have been interested in Korean cinema ever since I worked in Korea as an ESL teacher. My first Korean DVD purchases were Shiri and JSA, which I brought more for novelty and and as a momento of Korea than anything else, but I ended up being pleasantly surprised at the production values of both these movies. As a result, I have become a firm fan of Korean movies, and have added a number of titles to my DVD collection. This book will help me select some more good titles to add to the collection.

"Korean Cinema" fulfills a useful niche as it is basically a primer for Korean movies from 1998 to 2002 for newcomers to Korean cinema. The author reviews and rates a number of the movies made in this time span, from "Attack the Gas Station" through to "2009: Lost Memories", plus a couple of titles a couple of years older. The author also rates and discusses 10 Korean movies from that time period which he rates as must sees. It would be a good start for building a DVD collection. There is also a section devoted to the major personalities of the Korean movie industry, actors and directors. It is illustrated but only in black and white, any many of the pictures are of poor quality.

Ignore the low rating reviews of this book - the reviewers obviously brought this book expecting a serious textbook of Korean cinema, which if you actually read the advertising blurb for the book, it is most certainly not. There are books out there discussing the full history of Korean cinema, but make no mistake, this book is not one of them. It is strictly for the newcomers to the genre, and who has little knowledge of the Korean movie industry. It does have a chapter on the history of the industry in Korea, but it is only superficial, and it isn't the reason I brought the book anyway.

Especially ignore the twit who is critical of the author basing his movie reviews on english subtitles. Korean is a particularly difficult language to learn and to become sufficiently competent in the language to be able to follow a Korean movie without english subtitles is beyond the abilities of all but the most dedicated of people. The author of "Korean Cinema" does make it quite clear he is only a recent convert, and thus a beginner, in Korean movies.

This book would lend itself to an update every 3 or 4 years or so. There has been some considerably significant Korean movie releases since this book was first published, not least of which is "Tae-Guk-Gi". I also recommend checking out the website www.koreanfilm.org which has movie reviews, talent profiles and other useful informative articles. The author of the site, Darcy Paquet, is listed in the bibliography of "Korean Cinema" a number of times.

There should be more books like this.......2004-01-16

I received this for Christmas from my boyfriend and read it from cover to cover by New Years: its that good. Its like reading a magazine dedicated completely to Korean movies. Now when I go to the local Korean video store, I know which movies are worth renting and which ones to stay away from. Whoever wrote this, thank you for helping me appreciate some of the best movies in the world.

I hope there's a sequel!.......2003-08-28

What a great book! Everything you need to know about Korean movies all in one package. With lots of background on why Korean movies kick ass right now, what movies are worth watching, and which ones should be avoided, you definetely get your money's worth here. I hope he writes another one soon!

Asia Shock: Horror And Dark Cinema from Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, And Thailand

Average customer rating:

A Great Read - Setting the Record Straight
Enthusiastic Summary of Extreme Asian Cinema
Asia Shock is the connoisseur's definitive guide to the classics of this pop-culture genre.
Sometimes crosses the line between connoisseur and otaku
Brilliant!

Asia Shock: Horror And Dark Cinema from Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, And Thailand
Patrick Galloway
Manufacturer: Stone Bridge Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1933330120

Book Description

"It is very rare that you get this kind of expertise . . . with this level of communicative ability."- Daily Yomiuri

Asian Extreme cinema is hot, and this book lays it out in all its gory glory. Patrick Galloway, who last looked at samurai movies in his well-received Stray Dogs and Lone Wolves, now takes on Asian masters of suspense, exploitation, the supernatural, and bone-chilling, blood-curdling fear and evil. The films featured here are pan-Asian, including Korea and Thailand, and represent a mix of classics and the contemporary cutting edge. Included are viewing tips and overviews of genres and cultures.

Customer Reviews:

A Great Read - Setting the Record Straight.......2007-05-19

As an aspiring writer who was extremely impressed by the author's tone and style, as well as a fan of many of the films reviewed in Asia Shock, I am rather bemused by comments made by Vegan Viking from San Francisco. She writes: "Galloway mentions how Western audiences might not find cannibalism in Hong Kong such a stretch to imagine ... he shrugs it off by rationalizing along the lines of 'the Chinese eat a lot of weird food anyways,' implying that because the Chinese occasionally enjoy snake soup, it's only logical that they would break the universally held taboo against eating human flesh. I found this magnificently ignorant." These comments are just plain wrong. The movie in question is Three Extremes, a fictionalized account of real-life events in mainland China, and nowhere in his review does he say "Western audiences might not find cannibalism in Hong Kong such a stretch to imagine." Rather, Galloway discusses Chinese medicine's reliance on the body parts of some endangered species, then writes (pg. 69): "Such regrettable disregard for life has led many in the West to make the misguided leap of logic that Chinese people must not mind eating their own as well, whereas in reality, cannibalism is no doubt as abhorrent to Chinese people as any other group." Where Vegan Viking got the impression that Galloway was saying the exact opposite is beyond me!

Luckily most readers who love these movies and are interested in learning more will get so much from Asia Shock that I can't recommend it enough.

Enthusiastic Summary of Extreme Asian Cinema.......2007-03-22

One of the most vital and exciting developments in the last decade has been the trans-national dissemination of horror films from the east. Often made with one eye firmly on the international market, these films travel very well, without totally foregoing their own cultural specificity. Hideo Nakata's "Ring" has become the totemic film from which all other J-horror has been inspired and although I think western audiences have finally tired of the creepy kids and the long haired ghosts, these films remain persistently innovative and challenging. Galloway's very readable and entertaining book brings together a number of films from Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Thailand, that could be loosely categorised as Extreme Asia. It must be noted that Galloway's book is an entirely subjective summary of films which have left an impression on him. It is in no means academic, which lends itself to a wider audience. Therefore Asia Shock is more a device to generate debate and to encourage those with more explorative tastes to seek out material from more exotic climes. In this respect the book succeeds totally. I particularly liked the book because of the number of South Korean films include; films such as "Oldboy," Tale of Two Sisters," and "Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance" are nothing short of masterpieces and deserve too be recognised by a wide audience. This is Mr. Galloway's quest with Asia Shock and I for one certainly hope he succeeds.

Asia Shock is the connoisseur's definitive guide to the classics of this pop-culture genre........2007-03-06

Written by multinational traveler and lifelong student of Asian film culture and philosophy Patrick Galloway, Asia Shock: Horror and Dark Cinema from Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, and Thailand is a movie buff's guide to the horror and shock cinema of the far east. Asia Shock is not a comprehensive encyclopedia of all films in the genre, but rather a "reviewer's choice" of top shocking picks, some with in-depth reviews and some with capsule reviews, nearly all with extensive notes on unique cultural paradigms, viewing tips, and genre considerations. Focusing on over 50 critical and fan-favorite gory, chilling, and startling Asian horror movies, Asia Shock is the connoisseur's definitive guide to the classics of this pop-culture genre.

Sometimes crosses the line between connoisseur and otaku.......2007-02-28

Overall, as someone who enjoys "dark cinema" from Asia, I found this book very enjoyable, not only to learn about new titles that I may enjoy, but also to explore another person's perspective on films that I have already seen. Galloway definitely displays a genuine passion for the subject matter, as well as a profound knowledge of many aspects of Asian art and cinema. In addition to sitting back and enjoying the movies, he has clearly done a good deal of research on them.

However, I do take issue with the way in which some of the narrative veers towards the festishistic 'exotification' of Asia. Female cinemaphiles in particular will probably be put off by Galloway's repeated transformation into a dirty old Wan Chai cheek-toucher, unprofessionally slavering over the assets of various Asian actresses rather than over their performances.

I was also disappointed by an entry describing a Hong Kong cannibalism flick: Galloway mentions how Western audiences might not find cannibalism in Hong Kong such a stretch to imagine. However, rather than attributing such attitudes to racism and xenophobia, he shrugs it off by rationalizing along the lines of 'the Chinese eat a lot of weird food anyways,' implying that because the Chinese occasionally enjoy snake soup, it's only logical that they would break the universally held taboo against eating human flesh. I found this magnificently ignorant.

If you are a person who hates even the slightest hint of a spoiler, then this book is definitely not for you. Understandably, it's very difficult to write a movie review without revealing some of the plot, and Galloway is often put in the difficult position of writing about a movie that simply cannot be described or explored without tearing the gift wrapping of the film just a little bit. Ultimately, this book is best as a companion piece, and readers may wish to do as I did and skip the entries for the films they haven't yet seen, while revisiting and gaining new perspective on films they have already enjoyed.

Brilliant!.......2006-11-28

I picked up this book because I already have the same author's book on Samurai movies. It's clear that Patrick Galloway has a deep and discerning love for this material -- the world of Asian cinema is rich and rewarding, but if you're not too familiar with it it can seem too daunting to explore. That's where this book comes in: it not only looks at specific films and genres, but it puts everything into the larger context, so you can really learn about the deeper aspects of what is going on in a particular film. Whether you are new to Asian film, or a long-time aficionado of these particular horror films, there's a lot to learn, and this book is a fun and comprehensive way to really dig deeper.

Refighting the Last War: Command and Crisis in Korea 1950-1953

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Please, truth in advertising
Evaluation of the People and Command Decisions of the War

Refighting the Last War: Command and Crisis in Korea 1950-1953
D. Clayton James
Manufacturer: Free Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0029160014

Customer Reviews:

Please, truth in advertising.......2000-09-15

"Refighting the Last War" is an interesting title, because it conjures up all the things that soldiers never want to be guilty of, looking back and doing things the "old way." I picked up this book expecting a lively criticism of how we may have missed the boat in the Cold War's first hot spot. My disappointment was compounded by my naivite. It is immediately apparent to the reader that the author is not attempting a fresh interpretation, but rather a recap of what has already been discussed, debated, and decided (sometimes erroneously as will be pointed out later).

From the beginning it is clear that Korea is not fought like any war previous: the fact that the Sec State led us into conflict, the fact that Congress did not declare war, the President did not call up reserve forces or nationalize the economy for war mobilization, to say nothing of the air and naval restrictions imposed from the beginning of the conflict. Maybe MacArthur thought HE was refighting the last war, but that is a conclusion the reader will come to independent of the author's arguments.

Most telling to me is that although the book is post-Soviet Union, there is no attempt to access archival material that many other authors have, and who have published some startling conclusions, that perhaps our interpretation of the war in the 50's was in fact correct. The author claims that there was a "gentleman's agreement" between the USSR, US, and PRC to limit the war, and that Stalin and Mao monitored US congressional hearings to take their cues on American strategy. No joke. Where is the evidence? No foot notes, no citations of archival material, no logical followup. The reader is expected to accept the statement and the implications that maybe the Reds weren't so awful after all.

There are occaissional flashes of interest, particularly in discussing the issues surrounding the less known personalities such as Admiral Joy, and Generals Van Fleet and Clark. But if anything, all these individuals chaffed at not being able to "refight the last war", that is to wage war as they saw fit.

There are many statements and assertions that just don't do justice to the reader looking for a deeper story from Korea. There is a lot better scholarship and interpretion out there.

Evaluation of the People and Command Decisions of the War.......1997-12-02

This is a good text that highlights the (5)critical players and (6) command decisions that were part of the war.

Truman left the details up to Acheson but felt the war, and especially prisoner repatriation, were moral imperatives. (The later cost Truman the election in '52...an armistice would have been signed before the election had Truman yielded). Ridgway, stabilizing the front after MacArthur's collapse, decided to extract maximum Chinese casualities for largely insignifcant terrain. Admiral Joy wore two hats as commander and negotiator. His minesweeping and Marine air support were often underappreciated, even as his worst fears about the Soviets in Vladivostok never materialized. On the other hand he often negotiated as much with his own State Department as with the communists. General Clark chafed under the restraints of limited war, and wound up signing the Armistice 'with a heavy heart.'

As an analyst the command decisions are more interesting.
***The decision to intervene showed the growing strength of the state department vis a vis military matters. It had been the Joint Chiefs ,after all, who had said a war on the Asian mainland should be avoided. But pressure of McCarthyism and fear of a Kremlin monolith pushed us in. For their part, the North Koreans assumed that the US machinery of declaring war would be too cumbersome for a timely response. While bypassing congress was justified under the urgent circumstances that late June of 1953, it was foolish not to engage and consult with key leaders as the war progressed.
***The author, as many do, gives a good description of the insurmountable logistics of the Inchon landing. Asked about its risks, MacArthur (perhaps sarcastically) commented that the real risk was putting US boys on the mainland in the first place. The author could have pointed out that 'donkeys' revealed the Flying Fish Channel was not mined, nor was the port heavily guarded. In any case, the momentum gained at Inchon was lost with the Wonsan landing on the east coast.
***With regards to the decision to cross the parallel, James points out that speeches and excitement about uniting Korea predated US force breakouts. But the success foundered as US forces outran their supplies in the west; the peninsula widened and the temperatures plummeted; the Taebek mountains prevented the 'pincers' from closing. As for the disaster of Chinese intervention, the author lays some blame on Truman. He used the Wake Island meeting with MacArthur largely for political grandstanding when it called for hardnosed geopolitical analysis.
***On the decision to fire MacArthur: Keep in mind MacArthur felt US policymakers placed too much emphasis on Europe. [Reviewers comment: we still do. Can you say BOSNIA?] His proposals to extend the war into Manchuria and China involved limited air and sea operations, not ground troops. [Clark made the same proposals 2 years later]. As for the advance itself, MacArthur took full advantage of what he felt were ambiguous orders. A final source of misunderstanding was simply that links between MacArthur, the JCS and presidential advisors (especially Acheson) were weak.
*** In his chapter 'Victory or Armistice' James deals well with arguments that we should have exploited the weak CCF instead of pursuing an Armistice in mid 1951. Should we have advanced to the Korean 'waist'-- the line between Wonsan and Pyongyang? Considering the difficulties we encountered later at the Iron Triangle and the Punchbowl, this might not have been as easy as we thought. True, Van Fleet and Admiral Joy felt we had fumbled an opportunity to 'crush the enemy'. But the author states frankly the American led alliance decided that 'if the blood of their young men' was to be shed further, it should be in areas more strategically critical. (of course this means, Europe.).
***Could the war have been fought in another way or by other means?? America never decided to use Chiang Kai Sheks forces; not only could this be provocative, but there was a feeling that they were not up to snuff, anyway. America sent its extra 4 divisions to Europe partly as a signal to the communists that we wish to keep the war confined to the Peninsula.
What about more of a sea war? Not only would a blockade of Manchuria have been ineffective, but it might have brought in the Russians from nearby Vladivostok. Shelling of Chinese cities and bases also would have been largely ineffective since many facilities were beyond the range of coastal gunfire.
Could the air war have been different? Strategic bombing had little impact on the defensive lines of the enemy. Atomic bombs were a charming threat, but overkill ; and ineffective in such rural terrain. [nuclear bombs are good for one and only one thing...blowing up large cities.] Hot pursuit of MiGs scooting back north of the Yalu was eventually allowed. (and effective: read No Kum Sok's book, A MiG15 to Freedom).

There were other limits and sanctuaries as well: UN bases in Korea (Pusan, for example) were never bombed; Russian air and naval support was never more than just adequate. These limits illustrate the complex, political nature of cold war warfare. If it was new to us then, it most certainly is not now. Have we learned from it??

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Basic introduction

Newbie

Clear, Informative Images

Excellent Book

Superb Reference

Tae Kwon Do Basics, Techniques and Forms: The Indomitable Martial Art of Korea
Dong Keun Park , and Allan Schein
Manufacturer: Invisible Cities Press Llc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Tae Kwon Do: The Ultimate Reference Guide to the World's Most Popular Martial Art (Facts on File)

ASIN: 1931229465

Book Description

Straight from a martial arts grandmaster, this manual on tae kwon do gives comprehensive physical and mental guidance for belt levels from white through black. Detailed color photographs reveal the intricacies of each position, offering coverage of essential hand and foot techniques, blocks, and strikes. For competitors, there are complete listings of both Olympic rules and World Tae Kwon Do Federation sparring guidlines. In addition to the practical aspects, the book delves into the philosophy and history of tae kwon do, giving a closer look at the "art" of this martial art. By instilling discipline in students and providing inspiration for instructors, this definitive guide makes a fitting companion for practitioners of all levels.

Customer Reviews:

Basic introduction.......2007-08-24

This book is great if you want a basic reference for kicking and punching techniques, forms, sparring, etc. I was hoping for more of the theory and reasoning behind the art. In my opinion, it is best to clarify any questions of physical technique with a good teacher, rather than a book, so I try not to rely too heavily on the technical suggestions.

Newbie.......2007-08-09

This is the best Martial Arts book for TaeKwonDo ever! Great photos and instruction. Clear and easy to follow.

Clear, Informative Images.......2007-04-08

I bought this book for my 7 year old grandson who has just begun learning TKD in Sioux Falls, South Dakota where learning the art is very popular among young beginners.

Although my grandson has a little trouble with some of the words in the book, I am amazed at how well he can read and understand the written instructions. It appears that the author has gone to great lengths to assure the book can be read by young beginners.

I believe the feature that attracted my grandson to this book was the quality and color scheme of the photographic images. The images are large and clear enough to see important details with regard to the hands and feet.

Two areas that could stand a little improvement are: the book needs an index and, in a few moves, more pictures are needed to clarify turning movements.

On the positive side, the stretching techniques are very good, as are the sections on kicking and punching.

All-in-all, the book is a good learning tool.

Excellent Book.......2007-03-07

I wish this book was available when I started learning tae kwon do. The photos are great, the text is great and the book is a perfect adjunct to tkd class. Even now, after receiving ten years of instruction in tae kwon do, the book is an excellent, comprehensive resource.

Superb Reference.......2007-01-14

"This is an excellent reference for beginners or advance tae know do enthusiast. It really helped me master tae kwon do forms and one-step sparring for my promotion tests. Not to mention that it is very user friendly and easy to understand."

Muye Dobo Tongji : The Comprehensive Illustrated Manual of Martial Arts of Ancient Korea

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Good by itself, Awesome with the DVD
Korean martial artist's must buy
Long Awaited Historical Manuscript!
A gem of a book for historical weaponry enthusiasts!
The only surviving classical text on the Korean arts of war

Muye Dobo Tongji : The Comprehensive Illustrated Manual of Martial Arts of Ancient Korea
Yi Duk-Moo , and Park Je-Ga
Manufacturer: Turtle Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1880336537

Book Description

In 1789, King Chongjo, ruler of the Yi dynasty, ordered General Yi Duk-moo to compile an official textbook on all martial art forms then present in Korea to preserve them for future generations. The result, the Muye Dobo Tongji, is the only surviving classical text on the Korean arts of war. Based on the earliest known Korean martial arts treatise, the Muye Chebo written in 1599, the Muye Dobo Tongji clearly shows the influence of the neighboring Japanese and Chinese armies.

Through hundreds of wars and invasions, Korean soldiers adapted battlefield skills and tactics from their enemies, creating a unique system of their own. Organized into 24 distinct disciplines comprised of empty hand fighting, weaponry and horsemanship, this book is an accurate historical snapshot of the warrior arts of the hermit kingdom in the late 18th century.

The release of The Comprehensive Illustrated Manual of Martial Arts of Ancient Korea marks the first time this volume is available in English. Carefully translated from the original text and illustrated with reproductions of ancient woodblock carvings, this book provides fascinating insights into Korea's martial arts legacy.

Customer Reviews:

Good by itself, Awesome with the DVD.......2007-08-30

Dr. Sang H. Kim has made a very accessible translation of a military text written in 1790. This text contains martial arts forms that contain the weapon techniques existing in the far east at that time. The Korean Peninsula is a dangerous place, near larger, more powerful neighbors including: China, Mongolia, Manchuria and Japan. All these countries have long military traditions. While the military tradition flourished in Japan among the Samurai, during the 1300s the Koreans embraced Confucianism, which lead to a reduced emphasis on the military arts. A Japanese invasion in 1592 demonstrated an urgent need for the neglected military arts. A Chinese manual was acquired. After the Manchu invasions of 1627 and 1636, military preparedness again became important, and two more additions were made to the text, including Japanese techniques. The result is a well rounded manual of the weapon techniques which existed up to 1790.

The ancient Koreans put their military techniques into forms, in which these techniques could be practiced. This manual includes forms showing techniques with various weapons including short sword, long sword, twin sword, crescent sword, spear, flag spear, long stick, and even an early from of hand-and-foot techniques. The brief introduction to each form includes either some information about the weapon or the historical background surrounding the form. This book faithfully reproduces the diagrams and illustrations of the original text, with English translations of the movements. As any student of the martial arts knows, it is virtually impossible to learn a form from the printed description. This text is no different. Furthermore, some of the terms, such as "goose posture," "military messenger posture," and "single horned bull combat position," are unfamiliar to today's readers. Fortunately, the publisher also has a DVD titled "Ancient Korean Sword and Weapon Arts," Korean Sword and Weapon Arts DVD in which Korean masters demonstrate most of the forms in this book (excluding the forms on horseback). The DVD illustrates the postures, and the forms, just as the book explains the weapons and the background. This book, together with the DVD, provides a wealth of information for a student of the martial arts, especially for the sword student as about half the forms use some kind of sword. This book and DVD cut through the myths of martial arts schools and shows how martial arts were actually practiced in the far-east in ancient times. One rarely finds a bargain in the martial arts. This book, together with the DVD, are a best value and a valuable resource for the student of ancient weapons.

Paul Trogen, Ph.D.

Korean martial artist's must buy.......2007-07-15

If you're interested in learning about the past or just curious as to how martial arts were started pick this book up.

Long Awaited Historical Manuscript!.......2002-12-29

For years Korean stylists have heard about the Mu Ye Do Bo Tong Ji (MYDBTJ). FINALLY, we can not only see illustrations from the original woodcuts, but read a decent English translation of the work. Sang H. Kim has done more in the popular martial arts media (with the possible exception of He Yong Kimm) to explain Korean martial arts to the general public than anyone else. It says a lot that in the year 2000, someone (Kim) finally found it worthwhile to share the MYDBTJ with the folks who have heard so much about how it impacted the development of their martial art (tae kwon do, hapkido, etc).

Compiled from a variety of (credited) Chinese military texts by court official Lee, Dok-mu, the MYDBTJ came into use in Korea during the year 1790, Yi Dynasty. This 400 page volume offers us an uncommon view of actual practical martial skill utilized in days past, and surprisingly for many of us, finally dispells the myth of the importance of empty handed fighting among warriors of days past. For with the exception of a single chapter (pg 311-332), the entire focus of this volume is upon drilling with weapons (sword, staff, pole weapons, polo, horsemanship, etc)! It is of interest to note that in this section, mention is made of sources that refer both to the Shaolin method and death point striking.

For a truely excellent perspective on the MYDBTJ, a recommended read is the article "Korea's Mu Yei Do Bo Tong Ji: A Sample of Martial Arts training in the Yi Dynasty" by John Della Pia in _Journal of Asian Martial Arts_ Vol. 3 #2 (1994). I should also mention that although the MYDBTJ is compiled from CHINESE documents there are many people who in recent years have used the MYDBTJ as a guide in trying to re-create old-style "native" Korean martial arts, among them Hwang Kee of the Moo Duk Kwan, various Hapkido and taekwondo teachers and others in Korea who have created both empty handed and sword forms based upon their unique interpretations of the sequences contained in this manual. It is interesting to obsrve that virtually none of these independent interpretations agree with one another in form or application, suggesting that even folks with the benefit of growing up immersed in Korean language and culture have difficulty understanding this 210 year old work. This is due in part to vagueness of the illustrations and the terms used to describe the techniques, and the fact that it was originally written in classical Chinese. The terms include a vernacular which probably referred to commonly known techniques that needed no further explanation for an audience of 18 century soldiers. The unfortunate fact today is that native Korean martial arts with the exception of taek kyun (kicking), ssireum (wrestling), and archery have been lost to us as have the specifics concerning the skills shown in these manuals drawn from overwhealmingly Chinese sources. Unfortunately, nothing outside of Korea has been published on either Taek Kyun, Ssireum, or Korean archery.

I highly recommend this volume to ANYONE engaged in martial arts practice (regardless of the nationalistic identity of your respective art). It will offer a unique historical perspective on pre-modern Asian military preparation and drill which is simply unavailable from other sources. You now have the opportunity to form your own opinions and draw your own conclusions from this fascinating historical document.

A gem of a book for historical weaponry enthusiasts!.......2001-12-23

Wow! What an awesome book! I have always, as far as I can remember since beginning my martial arts training 15 years ago, wanted to know how martial arts were REALLY practiced back when they were really used in warfare. This book is a complete answer to the question. Now, many of you, if you live in the Western world, are probably most familiar with Japanese arts like Judo, Aikido, Kendo and Karate (originally meant "Chinese-hand", and came from the Ryukyu islands). This book, of course, is Korean, but that should in no way diminish its interest for you. Korea was a unified kingdom ever since about 700 AD. Japan arguably never truly was until the Meiji restoration in the 19th Century. So, the Koreans produced a textbook for their military whereas the Japanese kept their techniques secret from each other, and there are few traditions today in Japan that keep them alive (Kendo, Judo and the rest are modern creations meant for modern times). This is also, naturally, the case in Korea as well, BUT there is this book that has preserved the ancient techniques as they were back then for us today. The book describes in detail many series of techniques performed with the whole gamut of weapons, from fists to two-sword techniques on horseback. It even describes contests and games that can be used to sharpen skill and these include things, interestingly enough, like soccer and polo among others. I think in most cases it would not be possible to simply pick up the book and recreate whole forms in the backyard, but you can certainly learn and practice alot of individual techniques with the book in hand or conveniently placed nearby. In this way you can learn many of the techniques used by the ancient soldiers of Korea in their battles against Chinese, Yalu tribesmen, Japanese pirates and invading Mongols. I found the section on the Yedo (the so-called "short sword" which is what the Japanese call the Katana) to be particularly useful due to its detailed explanations of dozens of postures and attack/defense techniques. Generally, the Korean arts have received much less attention than the Japanese and Chinese, and this is probably due to the fact that the Japanese came up with popular sporting versions of their arts earlier than the Koreans and that Chinese culture is so strong worldwide through the cinema etc. The fact of the matter is that the Koreans beat off both the Chinese and the Japanese repeatedly throughout history, having been conquered only once before the 20th Century, and that was by the Mongols, whose victorious cavalry techniques they later adopted. During the Japanese invasions of the late 16th Century, the Koreans were first caught off guard, but soon rallied and through guerilla action on land by warrior monks and soldiers, and through armoured naval technology and tactics at sea defeated the Japanese in spite of the fact that they had the advantage of being equipped with the modern Portuguese-style arquebus and cannon. Another thing I really like about the book is that it speaks well of Chinese and Japanese techniques, many of which are adopted by the authors for instruction to the Korean troops. Rather than be held up by silly pettiness and pride, the scholars of this book make full use of other nations' techniques wherever they are useful. "Know thy enemy, know thyself" as Sun Tzu wrote. Foreign weapons are also displayed and described, and the history of each weapon is given as exhaustively as possible from available sources. If you are the sort of person who always wondered how Korean halberds, swords, spears, shields, staves, and so on were used, and you want to learn how to use them yourself, this is THE BOOK.

The only surviving classical text on the Korean arts of war.......2001-01-24

In 1789, King Jungjo, ruler of the Yi dynasty (1392-1910), ordered General Yi Duk-moo, Park Je-ga and Pak Dong-soo to compile an official textbook on all martial arts forms then extent in Korea for the purpose of preserving them for future generations. Their efforts became the "Muye Dobo Tongji", and the only surviving classical text on the Korean arts of war. Organized into twenty-four distinct disciplines comprised of empty hand fighting, weaponry and horsemanship, The Comprehensive Illustrated Manual Of Martial Arts Of Ancient Korea is ably translated into English for the benefit of a western readership and a core contribution to any personal, professional, or academic martial arts library collection.

Korean Language in Culture And Society (Klear Textbooks in Korean Language)

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Korean Language in Culture And Society (Klear Textbooks in Korean Language)

Manufacturer: University of Hawaii Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

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Linguistics | Words & Language | Reference | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0824826949

Book Description

Intended as a companion to the popular KLEAR Textbooks in Korean Language series and designed and edited by a leading Korean linguist, this is the first volume of its kind to treat specifically the critical role of language in Korean culture and society. An introductory chapter provides the framework of the volume, defining language, culture, and society and their interrelatedness and presenting an overview of the Korean language vis-à-vis its culture and society from evolutionary and dynamic perspectives.

Early on, contributors examine the invention and use of the Korean alphabet, South Korea's "standard language" vs. North Korea's "cultured language," and Korean in contact with Chinese and Japanese. Several topics representative of Korean socio-cultural vocabulary (sound symbolic words, proverbs, calendar-related terms, kinship terms, slang expressions) are discussed, followed by a consideration of Korean honorifics and other related issues. Two chapters on ! Korean media, one on advertisements and the other a comparative analysis of television ads in Korea, Japan, and the U.S., follow. Finally, contributors look at salient features of the language, narrative structure, and dialectal variation. All chapters are accompanied by a set of student questions and a useful bibliography. Throughout, technical language is kept to a minimum and sufficient language examples are provided. A beginning level of proficiency in Korean is sufficient to digest the Korean examples with facility, making this volume accessible to a wide range of students.

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Pyongyang

Easy, fun and educational read!

not a novel

Stranger than fiction

Great drawings, low nutritional content

Pyongyang: A Journey in North Korea
Guy Delisle
Manufacturer: Drawn and Quarterly
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Epileptic

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ASIN: 1896597890
Release Date: 2005-09-22

Book Description

A westerner's visit into North Korea, told in the form of a graphic novel.

Famously referred to as one of the "Axis of Evil" countries, North Korea remains one of the most secretive and mysterious nations in the world today. In early 2001 cartoonist Guy Delisle became one of the few Westerners to be allowed access to the fortresslike country. While living in the nation's capital for two months on a work visa for a French film animation company, Delisle observed what he was allowed to see of the culture and lives of the few North Koreans he encountered; his findings form the basis of this remarkable graphic novel. Pyongyang is an informative, personal, and accessible look at a dangerous and enigmatic country.

Customer Reviews:

Pyongyang.......2007-09-19

This is another book -- recommended to me -- in a growing genre of what I guess can be called "illustrated journalism" or "illustrated memoirs": writers telling their stories of real life through the medium of graphic novels. Of course, another big author in this genre is Marjane Satrapi, with her greatest achievement being Persepolis, and her story of living in Iran when the Shah was overthrown and the country went through some devastating times. She followed this with Persepolis 2 -- which I have yet to read -- a sequel of her going back to Iran, and most recently Embroideries, which I did read and while I found it interesting -- a group of women meet for tea to discuss their lives as Iranian women and it seems much like one of the salons on the 1920's, where they discuss in secrecy things that shouldn't be talked about -- though I felt the book too short and didn't go into enough depth.

Nevertheless, Satrapi and Delisle are two of this growing genre and with the way graphic novels and comic books are continuing to increase every year in sales and support, I'm really happy that this nonfiction style is also continuing to grow because, much as you can say a lot with words and you can say a lot with pictures, uniting the true presents a whole new insight: not only do you hear the author through his or her words, but you see the emotion in the illustration and an empathic bond inevitably develops.

The author and artist of Pyongyang, Guy Delisle, works in animation and spends some time in North Korea where a part of animation has now been outsourced and there he works with a company, but the story isn't about the animated movie he is working on, it is much more about his experience in living in this relatively unknown country. One cannot help but get the feel of entering a new and undiscovered country for the first time.

North Korea caters, naturally, to its visitors and especially its tourists, so we see a world where there are buildings, towns and structures everywhere, and yet most are run down and have no power. Yet, when the tourists arrive, all of a sudden an entire floor of the hotel is filled with light and life, as well as two of the restaurants on another floor. While the menus aren't exactly five-star, they nevertheless have fresh goods and Delisle enjoys it, but after some weeks the quality goes down until the next group of tourists arrive, whereupon fresh melon is served once again! His most memorable description is of ordering French toast and being served with a slice of white bread on which has been sprinkled milk and warmed in the microwave.

But one really sees in this book the scary world that North Koreans are subjected to under the rule of their president Kim Jong-Il, and while this is a communist regime, one can't help but see stark similarities with just about every ruler, president, and emperor in the history of civilization. For example, the North Korean government goes to extremes to portray Kim Jong-Il and his deceased father and predecessor Kim Il-Sung as almost looking identical and perfectly alive and healthy. All supporters of the government wear pins of one or the other, or a pin of the two, as well as showing constant voluntary support of their government in building shrines to one, the other, or both, and making paintings and erecting statues, and improving their country by painting a bridge or cleaning a street -- it can be seen everyone, as Delisle travels around the country. The northeast part is off limits, government controlled and where, according to the rumors, are all the camps containing the prisoners and rebels. And each supporter constantly proclaims his blind faith to his president; on the radio are about three stations where songs are repetitively played that cry out the greatness of the government and the president, and the listeners are fully expected to sing along.

Tourists are not allowed to travel alone around North Korean and must be accompanied by an interpreter and staunch government supporter all the time (unless they are with the UN), who's job it is to respect the tourists beliefs and yet to convert and enlighten him or her to the ways of their great president and supreme government. One of the most entertaining chapters of the book is when Delisle visits the great museum made for Kim Jon-Il, where everything within extols his greatest and reveals apocryphal facts about his life, such as his penning over 15,000 works before the age of twenty, and how many leaders around the world support his ideal and think him great. What's funny is that Delisle, viewing these artifacts and gifts, is quick to point out how they are either inaccurate or not actually real. And yet the supporters believe without question and while they may listen to other ideas, never shirk their duty to constantly say good things about Mr. Jong-Il.

The book does fail somewhat in going into depth with this world, and it seems once the astonishment of this unknown land passes, Delisle tends to focus a little to much on his day to day machinations and trying to work with the North Korean people, which while interesting at first, tend to get repetitive when there is so much more to explore and see.

Near the end of the book, he focuses on how he makes paper airplanes out of scrap paper and throws them from his hotel window, hoping they will make it to the river and be free, which is the last image of the story, while a hulk of a building grows on the other side of the river where a movie theatre will be built, and even though Delisle has explained this is what this is, the reader knows it's not going to be used for Hollywood blockbusters, and had Delisle researched and investigated more, we would've been given further details of this mysterious country.

I will, however, add that since reading this, playing a new Xbox game called Mercenaries, where the point of the game is to make deals with all the different factions in the demilitarized zone of North Korea and capture all the wanted military of North Korea, it has at least opened my eyes and awareness of this oppressed and dark country.

It will be an interesting day, when the communist government either collapses, or is more likely overthrown, and the stories, experiences and information start pouring out about what life was like in North Korea during this time.

For more book reviews, and other writings, go to www.alexctelander.com

Easy, fun and educational read!.......2007-09-12

Personally, I follow a lot of North Korean goings-ons, especially since Kim Jong Il is such a character. I'm Korean-American so I've always been fascinated by this topic -- and I'm also a graphic artist so I've done my own share of parody artwork and interactive/digital games and illustrations about Kim Jong Il and NK culture. Anyway, this book by Guy Leslie is great. What a rare and great experience he had while visiting a country that most people could never step foot in! It was funny, informative and enlightening. I would buy it as gifts for all my friends.

If you liked this book, you'd also enjoy Art Spiegelman's graphic novels "Maus I: A Survivor's Tale: My Father Bleeds History " and its sequel "Maus II: A Survivor's Tale: And Here My Troubles Began" which are about World War II. And if you liked Maus, you'll definitely like "Pyongyang: A Journey in North Korea" too.

not a novel.......2007-07-16

This is an excellent book that I recommend along with Delisle's similar work, "Shenzhen", which covers his experiences working in the Chinese city. "Pyongyang" is marginally the more intriguing book because he is writing about (and drawing) a stranger place, but the two are fascinating to read together. I do wonder, though, why these are referred to as graphic novels. Novels are by definition works of fiction while these are quite clearly intended as factual accounts of his real life experiences. Pepys's diary is not a novel, for example, and the myriad of political and sports memoirs littering the shelves are not considered novels, I don't understand why books like Delisle's are any different. As the cover of "Shenzhen" says it's a "travelogue", or a graphic journal if you like, it ain't a novel. But whatever you call it, I recommend it.

Stranger than fiction.......2007-04-24

Once I started this book I could not put it down. Hats off to Guy Delisle who cronicled his experiences so vividly in this anami-style diary. My only regret was that it was too short and ended rather abruptly.

The strength of this book lies not with Mr Delisle's wry sence of humor, which is refreshingly funny, but in the depiction of Kim Jong Il and all his bizzarness, which, unfortunately, a whole country must suffer through.

Great drawings, low nutritional content.......2007-01-13

I think Delisle's artwork is great, very compact and minimal, yet suggesting a lot. The interiors of vast, empty buildings and the exteriors of failed construction projects are wonderful. I read the book in one sitting, and it does give a solid sense of what it's like to be in North Korea as a foreigner.

However, I have to agree with a reviewer below that there's something superficial about the book's overall portrait of this shutdown, closed-up society. It's true that as Delisle points out, the country bears stark similarities to Orwell's 1984, but that's a rather obvious comparison to make. More disturbingly, this comparison leads to an overly simple contrast throughout the book between the benign goodness of Western capitalism and the stifling evil of North Korean communism--this contrast remains too simple, too black and white.

Also, we've all heard many times that the people there are expected to act like robots, and yes, the fears they feel daily are real and horrifying. But the people there ARE people, not robots. The glimpses of humanity that Delisle provides beneath the seemingly robotic surfaces of the people he met there are too few and far between. At the same time, the voracious, gobbling, planet-threatening consumerism of most Westerners gets a free pass.

For a better view of the humanity under the surface of Pyongyang, I suggest Pieter Fleury's recent film, North Korea: A Day in the Life. Like Delisle, Fleury was severely restricted in what he could see (and thus film), but he tries much harder to understand what he's allowed to see, rather than merely letting it confirm his preconceptions.

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A really good treatment of a complex history
A believable source for MA history
A Clasic Text

Karate's History and Traditions
Bruce A. Haines
Manufacturer: Tuttle Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Sports | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0804819475

Customer Reviews:

A really good treatment of a complex history.......2007-03-14

This book does an excellent overview job on the "big picture" of the growth and development of Karate, including how it has spread in the United States. Some of the statements about other martial arts reflect some small bias on the part of the author, but that is minor and understandable. The book serves to answer most basic questions a reader might have, like "Who first taught this-or-that", or "Where was the first school?" and things like that. I don't mean to imply that this book is basic, or superficial. The history is complete and detailed, and covers a large time period. Any dojo owner or teacher out there needs to read this book to intelligently answer questions raised by students and lay people.

Martial Arts content and education has changed so much over the last, say, fifteen years that this book serves as the model for other studies that need to be made. The book is readable without sacrificing accuracy or clarity, complete, coherent (i.e., it keeps its focus consistently), and logically arranged. Anyone that wants to publish work that amplifies or follows up this work would do well to study its composition. Thank goodness this history was compiled when it was, before so much could be lost or forgotten.

A believable source for MA history .......2006-03-10

Martial Arts history is so intertwined with myth and legend, that its hard to separate true historical facts. This book does a good job of pointing out when parts of the traditional history are likely to be just fictional, yet also pays respect to a very eastern perspective; sometimes myth represents better the essence of the idea than a myriad of facts, which are by nature, disjoint and subjective.

A Clasic Text.......2000-01-11

A Clasic Text treasured by Martial Artist for over twenty years, Karate's History & Traditions was long recognized as the most authoritative source on martial arts history and technique. Now Bruce Haines, historian and martial artist, has updated this rich source to reflect changes that have taken place in the last two decades.

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