Tai-otoshi is one of the most classical of all judo throws. It is a technique in which one's whole body is used to make the throw work--and when successful, the effect is both beautiful and devastating. It is a tribute to the very nature of the throw that it has survived over years the fashions, wrestling techniques and all the new tricks that have been introduced to win competitions. Although well known for his effective uchimata and unstoppable armlocks, Neil Adams regards tai-otoshi as his tokui-waza--favorite technique. Throughout his career Adams used this technique time and again to throw players of the very highest calibre for ippon. In fact, his very last throw (and his very last ippon) in his long and illustrious career was tai-otoshi. In his comprehensive survey of the development and the evolution of tai-otoshi Adams emphasises the importance of rhythm, balance, timing and proper positioning. To Adams this is what good judo is all about. This innovative exposition is a welcome addition to the Masterclass Techniques series. As with all books in this series there are excellent contest photographs--many of them featuring Adams himself--from the superb collection of judo photographer David Finch.