Sensei Willy J. Ortiz, a 6th degree black belt, began his love of Shotokan Karate at an early age. Some of his former teachers were Nakayama, Okazaki, Mori, Kaze, Mikami, Kanazawa, Enoeda, Otsuka and Yamaguchi. Throughout this book Ortiz you will find an impressive series of facts, names, dates, and anecdotes written by legends, including a collection of photographs, which he showcases throughout the book, some taken in the early part of the last century. The author does not offer an alternative version of the origins of Karate, having decided that the truth will probably never be known. He moves on to the next chapter, dealing with prominent Karate people to illustrate just how important Gichin Funakoshi's advancement of Shotokan Karate was. Ortiz brings to life who Funakoshi was, by portraying him as a fallible human being, rather than the legendary master we all know. The author presents numerous examples of Funakoshi's relationship with other Karate masters of his day. Wado Ryu's founder Otsuka is mentioned quite often, and the close relationship between Wado Ryu and Shotokan is explored, as well as the differences between the two styles. Ortiz is also able to draw on his long association with Nakayama, and provides a detailed and factual description of the early days of the JKA. Acknowledging that Nakayama was instrumental with its creation, development and promotion. This book is very much a worthwhile read.