Told in actual stories of past grandmasters and in dojo lectures on techniques-with photographs, drawing, and paintings-the last surviving grandmaster of the ancient art of ninjutsu, Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi, presents ''Essence of Ninjutsu: The NineTraditions.'' In it, he explains why, after more than 900 years, the art of the shadow warriors continues to inspire and serve practioners from around the world. Dr. Hatsumi's book contains historic ninja scrolls and describes techniques for self-defense, and it debunks tricks that are attributed to the ninja but actually derive more from the circus than the martial arts. ''Essence of Ninjutsu'' is a fascinating, authoritative look at the roots of ninjutsu and how it continues to enrich the lives of its practitioners today.