The Rise and Evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a fantastic book that should be treasured by the BJJ community. It is an educational and entertaining read that made me laugh out loud on multiple occasions. Anyone interested in learning more about the history of BJJ would be wise to read it. Throughout this book the author Robert Drysdale does an exceptional job of disputing some of the false narratives that have been told to the American people regarding the history of BJJ. Doing so he highlights the significant contributions of Carlson and Rolls Gracie. He even makes a compelling argument that Carlson Gracie is the father of modern BJJ and if you train BJJ there is a strong probability that your lineage can be traced back to the academy Carlson opened up in 1972 and later shared with his brother Rolls. Robert makes such claims by reviewing historical documents from the Brazilian National Library and by interviewing people (i.e., martial artists, journalists) who were witnesses to these events when they occurred. Like most people who knew Carlson I can attest to the accuracy with which Carlson is portrayed in this book, particularly with regard to his competitiveness and generosity. For example, I specifically remember a time in Chicago when Carlson was at a restaurant with his students. After one of these students told Carlson he liked his watch, Carlson took off his watch, gave it to this student, and refused to take it back.
More than just a martial art’s book, The Rise and Evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a book on Brazilian history and culture. I found the chapter on malandragem to be fascinating and I liked hearing about the cultural differences between Brazil and the USA. I also enjoyed hearing Robert talk about his own personal experience with BJJ, and the cultural variables that attracted him to BJJ in the first place (e.g., pit-boys). Toward the end of the book Robert gives his opinion on the current state of BJJ in America and the direction it is heading, for better or for worse. Although you do not necessarily have to read this book from start to finish, I highly recommend that you do so in order to truly appreciate the timeline of events and the author’s message. My only critique, albeit minor, is that there are a number of misspellings and grammatical errors throughout the book. Although this does not diminish the book’s content or message, I do hope these errors are corrected.
Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime
Try Prime
and start saving today with fast, free delivery
Loading your book clubs
There was a problem loading your book clubs. Please try again.
Not in a club? Learn more
Join or create book clubs
Choose books together
Track your books
Bring your club to Amazon Book Clubs, start a new book club and invite your friends to join, or find a club that’s right for you for free.
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more. Read it now.
Frequently bought together
$39.99
Get it as soon as Wednesday, May 8
In Stock
Total price:
To see our price, add these items to your cart.
Choose items to buy together.
Similar items that may ship from close to you
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
Reviews with images
Super Interesting Read
The author does a great job of providing well researched historical facts while telling an incredibly compelling story. He achieves a delicate balance between his obvious passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu while remaining objective to the divisions and politics involved. A must read for every BJJ practitioner!!
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Reviewed in the United States on May 3, 2023
Reviewed in the United States on January 5, 2024
Reviewed in the United States on November 3, 2023
Reviewed in the United States on August 18, 2023
The author does a great job of providing well researched historical facts while telling an incredibly compelling story. He achieves a delicate balance between his obvious passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu while remaining objective to the divisions and politics involved. A must read for every BJJ practitioner!!
Images in this review
Reviewed in the United States on August 15, 2023
Reviewed in the United States on June 15, 2023
It’s about time! Great read about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu history!
Reviewed in the United States on June 15, 2023
If you’re interested in learning more about Brazilian jiu jitsu history outside the heavily biased Helio Gracie Narrative, then this is your book. I thoroughly loved the interview style of this piece of work. The interviews, from those who have been there, must be documented for generations to come! I applaud the author for taking the time to organize and write this down! Thank you Mr. Drysdale!
Reviewed in the United States on June 15, 2023
Images in this review
Reviewed in the United States on May 25, 2023
