If it's any indication, Kodokan Judo is the book my instructors consult when a difficult questions arises like, What's the difference between Uki Goshi and O Goshi? And as the veritable Bible of Judo, it's a book you're going to want if you're studying Judo and want an authoritative text about the system. Therefore, if you're a Judo practitioner and are looking for essential reading, this is it.

The book has two major advantages: authority, and completeness. Authored by the founder Kano and an army of 9th and 10th dans, there is no question about the correctness of this book. Also, this text takes you from the first second you decide upon learning Judo, telling you the etiquette of the dojo, how to tie your belt, and fold your gi, to the point of being a good curricular text for instructors. It organises the techniques according in the text exactly in the groups in which they're taught. And it includes all the katas of Judo, some of which are antique, and preserved for record more than for use, as is the case withthe old Koshiki no Kata from Kito-ryu Jujutsu.

Where this book presents a challenge is in the quality of the photography, which should come as no surprise, considering how long ago the founder and some of his now-deceased students had the photos taken. In many cases, however, the current edition includes newer photos that illuminate the content of some of the older ones. The book also lacks much information on combination fighting, but that's likely due to the fact that it is not the focus of the text.

If you're interested in only acquiring the most essential texts on Judo, then this must be one of them. Despite its age, it's still obviously very complete and authoritative. It's also very well organised and affordable. Therefore, I highly recommend it to any Judo practitioner at any level.