The Art of War

By Sun Tzu, Thomas Cleary,

Book cover of The Art of War: Complete Text and Commentaries

Book description

Sun Tzu's Art of War, compiled more than two thousand years ago, is a study of the anatomy of organizations in conflict. It is perhaps the most prestigious and influential book of strategy in the world today. Now, this unique volume brings together the essential versions of Sun Tzu's text,…

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Why read it?

1 author picked The Art of War as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I recommend this book because it is not only the oldest military book known, but also a foundational text. It is short, simple to read, and can be understood at multiple levels from absolute novice to grand strategist. It is a compilation of aphorisms and stories intended to give the reader an insight into the nature of war. To stay with the Chinese theme, Lao Tzu reputedly said that the journey of a thousand li (miles) begins with a single step. This book is that step.

From Charles' list on military tactical thinking.

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