5 Must-Read Books about BJJ 

Who reads books anymore these days? Well, there are still a few of us stalwarts of the written word still kicking. At the very least, we still like to collect physical books and let them gather dust on our book shelves or coffee tables.

In today’s technological world, the preferred medium of knowledge for all things Brazilian jiu-jitsu are now videos, dispensed through YouTube, your preferred social media platform, or the numerous “online academies” that have proliferated in the past decade.

This is understandable. Jiu-jitsu – any martial art, really –  is a dynamic sport that is best captured in action. In fact, young whipper-snappers these days won’t have to know the frustration of trying to replicate a technique from still-image shots in an instructional book so thick you could defend yourself against intruders with it.

Yet… there are still a few gems out there that are worth destroying a few trees for. These are books that focus less on technique and more on the philosophy, principles and personal journeys of some of our sport’s most noteworthy individuals.  Here is our list of five must-read books worthy of gracing your home or hovel:

“Breathe: A Life in Flow” by Rickson Gracie

Rickson Gracie is often regarded as one of the greatest BJJ practitioners in history, as well as a modern day philosopher. In this autobiography, he shares his life story, philosophy, and thoughts on martial arts. It explores his family’s legacy, the roots of BJJ, and how he developed the mental and physical discipline that made him an icon in the sport. It’s a deep, philosophical look at the martial artist’s mindset.

“The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Globetrotter” by Christian Graugart

Christian Graugart is the founder – and some would say cult leader – of the BJJ Globetrotters movement. This is his unique travel memoir, chronicling his adventures traveling the world and training at different jiu-jitsu academies across the globe. It’s an inspiring read for those who see BJJ as not just a sport, but a way to connect with different people, cultures and experiences. 

“The Cauliflower Chronicles” by Marshal D. Carper

This is a personal narrative about a young BJJ enthusiast's journey to Hawaii to study BJJ under the guidance of BJJ legend BJ Penn. It’s a light, fun read that touches on the struggles, challenges, and rewards of pursuing jiu-jitsu, offering a glimpse into the life of a passionate  and relatable BJJ student.

“The Black Belt Blueprint” by Nic Gregoriades

Another modern-day philosopher of the jiu-jitsu community, Nic Gregoriades is a Roger Gracie black belt, who has made a name for himself in his structured approach to mastering BJJ. The book includes detailed instructions on techniques, training advice, and strategies to accelerate your progress. It’s particularly useful for those looking for a holistic approach to improving their BJJ game, both technically and mentally. 

“Mastering Jujitsu” by Renzo Gracie and John Danaher

What list would be complete without two of the most well-known coaches in the sport jiu-jitsu community? Co-authored by John Danaher and the legendary Renzo Gracie, this book explores both the technical and strategic elements of BJJ. It explains the history, theory, and evolution of jiu-jitsu, while also delving deep into the principles of grappling, making it a must-read for those who want to understand BJJ beyond just techniques.

Whether looking to deepen your understanding of the art and philosophy of the gentle art, or you’re just looking for some reading material for your porcelain throne, this selection offers some valuable insights into the sport we all know and love.