Yamada's first book is a good, affordable, yet slim, basic introduction to aikido, and he acknowledges as much. The b&w photos are for the most part very clear, and do much to convey the grace and attitude necessary in this elegant martial art. This was my first purchase of an aikido book, to be followed later by Yamada's The New Aikido Complete, a five star book, that stays permanently on my bedside table. If you are new to any of the martial arts, you will learn something from Aikido Complete. Treat yourself to studying one of the greats; it is money and time well spent, and who knows, it may come in handy one day. For a more thorough tour of Aikido by Yamada, try The New Aikido Complete.