The Art of War

by Sun Tzu
The Art of War cover
Good Books rating 3.5
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  • ID: 252
  • Added: 2025-09-06
  • Updated: 2025-11-01
  • ISBN: 9780465013272
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 1994-02-11
  • Formats: 473
  • Reviews: 4

Sun-tzu's Art of War is a legendary treatise on military strategy that has influenced countless battles and leaders throughout history. Beyond its military applications, this book has become a go-to resource for achieving success in competitive situations, with companies worldwide making it required reading for executives. This definitive translation by Chinese warfare scholar Ralph D. Sawyer places the text in its historical context, offering an accurate and accessible edition that includes insights into battles that may have shaped Sun-tzu's thinking. /n/n The Art of War is not just a historical document but a timeless guide to strategy that transcends the battlefield. It provides valuable lessons on leadership, decision-making, and competitive advantage, making it relevant to modern business, politics, and personal development. Sawyer's translation ensures that readers gain a deeper understanding of the text's original intent and its enduring significance.

Reviews
reddit.com · Unknown · 2025-09-23
transformative 4.50

The Art of War by Sun Tzu offers a unique perspective on strategy and tactics, applicable beyond military contexts. The reviewer found the book transformative, enhancing their lifestyle and planning skills.

The Art of War is a timeless classic that transcends its military origins, offering profound insights into strategy and planning. The reviewer was particularly impressed by how the teachings could be applied to everyday life, leading to personal growth and improved decision-making. They highly recommend checking out an accompanying article for a deeper understanding before diving into the book. The impact of the book was so significant that it changed their approach to various aspects of life, making it a must-read for those seeking wisdom beyond conventional boundaries.

Quick quotes

    It's actually an ancient Chinese military treatise that teaches strategies and tactics about war and, I actually think I've improved my lifestyle after reading this.

    I won't tell you much about the teachings in the book but, before reading I'd recommend checking out this article (the article initially convinced me to read this book): What Can “The Art of War” Teach You About Planning?

    Happy reading!

Goodreads · 2025-01-01
disappointing 1.00

The book is considered a bore and a complete failure, doing no justice to Sun Tzu's masterpiece. It is worse than regular self-help fare.

This reviewer found the book to be a disappointment, describing it as a bore and a complete failure. They believe it does not do justice to Sun Tzu's masterpiece and is worse than typical self-help books. The criticism is harsh, suggesting that the book falls short of expectations and does not provide the value one might hope for from such a classic work.

Quick quotes

    Well, the book is a bore and a complete failure.

    It does no justice to Sun Tzu's masterpiece

    It is worse than the regular self-help fare

bestwriting.com · Unknown · 2024-04-24
insightful 4.50

The Art of War by Sun Tzu is a timeless guide on military strategy that offers valuable insights applicable to various aspects of life, including personal development, sports, and business. The book emphasizes the importance of preparation, patience, and strategic thinking to achieve victory.

The Art of War by Sun Tzu is a classic text that has stood the test of time, offering profound wisdom on military strategy and winning tactics. The book's teachings are not limited to warfare but can be applied to various fields such as personal development, sports, and business. Sun Tzu's emphasis on preparation, patience, and striking at the enemy's weaknesses is a recurring theme throughout the book. The strategies discussed, such as knowing oneself and the enemy, avoiding unnecessary battles, and maintaining unity within one's ranks, are universally applicable and can lead to success in any endeavor. The book's timeless advice continues to be relevant and is praised by leaders and strategists across different domains.

Quick quotes

    Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.

    If your opponent is of choleric temper, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant.

    He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight.

Percepta · 2022-04-14
insightful 4.00

The book is seen as a thought-provoking piece rather than an inspirational manifesto. It offers valuable insights into strategy and leadership.

The reviewer found The Art of War to be more of a thought-provoking piece than an inspirational manifesto. They appreciated the book's depth and the way it delves into strategy and leadership, making it a valuable read for those interested in these topics. The reviewer also noted that the book's wisdom, though ancient, remains relevant and insightful. They highlighted the book's ability to challenge the reader's thinking and provide practical advice that can be applied in various contexts.

Quick quotes

    What I enjoyed most about The Art of War was that I found it to be more of a Thought-Provoking piece, than an Inspirational Manifesto.

    While it is a classic, it is not just a relic of the past but a timeless guide to strategy and leadership.

    The book's wisdom, though ancient, remains relevant and insightful.

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