Eric Shou-li Yao became involved several years ago in a project to publish this book, en face, in Chinese and English. Eric is Leung Wing-hang's grand-nephew. He searched for the original Chinese edition, as there were oether editions out there that were either incomplete or inaccurate. Among other places, his search led to Plum Publications, who had a copy in their own martial library and were able to present him with photos from that edition.
And now the text is here. Not only does it contain the entire form, but it gives some great historical information on the creation of this set and, in the wider picture, the creative process that was occurring with many other teachers developing a rash of customized forms such as Ying-Jaau-Tong-Long-Bo-Yin-Sun (Eagle Claw, Mantis Step, Swallow Body). There are also prefaces and forwords from Lung Chi-chung, Chu Tze-fan and Chan Bo-wei. Besides really well-reconstructed photos there is a footwork map and line drawing illustrations. This is an unusual form directly in the Hung Jia tradition but having a flavor and postural originality all its own. We are of the opinion that this 48 move set can be learned by anyone with some martial experience. Its movements are perfectly in accord with the three animals of the title.
This book is a fine addition to a Kung Fu library not only for Hung style but for enthusiasts of Kung Fu history. This text doesn't just re-issue the original but it keeps the end papers, prefaces, and personal notes and fellow practitioners and admirers which is such a part of martial culture.
