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In 2003 I embarked on an incredible journey in an ancient Japanese martial art called Ninpo Tai Jutsu, the Art of the Ninja, although I didn't go willingly. I had to be dragged onto the mat kicking and screaming, and not in a good way. My plan was to take a few classes, learn a few self-defense techniques (which I desperately needed), and quit, because I knew I was going to hate it.
I didn’t hate it. I fell in love with the art, I fell in love with the training, and I really fell in love with the strength, confidence, and empowerment I gained from training. Ten years later, at the age of 57, I became my teacher’s first female black belt. In twenty years of teaching, my teacher never had a female achieve such a high rank.
I never went looking for the art of Ninpo. The art came looking for me, and it took three long years for my acupuncturist to convince me to take a few classes with him to help me heal from the devastating effects of PTSD after a traumatic experience. The rest, as they say, is history.
My story is one of triumph over tragedy, which also includes a sense of humor, playfulness, and personal empowerment. I believe that there is an incredible amount of strength and power in all of us just waiting to be discovered. It is my sincere hope that this book can help you find yours.
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Reluctant Ninja: How A Middle-Aged Princess Became A Warrior Queen is a work of non-fiction in the memoir and inspirational writing subgenres. It is intended for the general adult reading audience and was penned by author Cheryl L Ilov. In this explorative and motivational work taken from her real life, the author explores the transition of personality when, in her mid to late forties, Cheryl experienced traumatic events leading to severe PTSD and mental health issues. After the art of Japanese martial arts is suggested to her as a healthy outlet and coping mechanism, her life begins to change for the better again.
This truly empowering book explains the many benefits of martial arts practices, as well as gives readers the chance to tune in with author Cheryl L Ilov and share her raw account of the lasting and damaging effects which PTSD can have on your life. No matter where you started from, this is a work that proves how anyone can make those incredible shifts in capability, confidence, and emotional resolve, and this particular work really sells the ninja lifestyle too. Another feature of the work that I really enjoyed was its general tone, which balances the elements of the technical, personal, and emotional perfectly. It is a book that highlights the power of the human spirit whilst also being a really motivational how-to guide. Overall, The Reluctant Ninja is a unique and engaging memoir that will certainly enthrall its readers whilst also tugging their heartstrings. A recommended read.
