Sun Tzu: Art of War

by Ralph D. Sawyer

Genres: Nonfiction, Philosophy, Classics

349 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read The Art of War because I felt it was one of those books everyone should experience at least once in their life. I picked this particular version, translated by Ralph D. Sawyer, simply because it was the first one I came across when I decided to read it.

Some people dislike applying war metaphors to management or strategy, but I think there’s value in viewing concepts through extreme lenses—like war—because raising the stakes can make certain ideas clearer. At its core, much of The Art of War is common sense, but that doesn’t mean it lacks depth. The strategic and philosophical insights are worth reflecting on, even if they might seem obvious at first glance.

As for this specific edition, it was fine. I haven’t read other translations to compare, but I found this one serviceable, even if it occasionally felt bogged down with unnecessary additions to the original text. The core wisdom of Sun Tzu remains valuable, though, and I still believe this is a book everyone should read at least once.

I’m giving it three stars—not because it was bad, but because it’s not something I’d revisit. However, I’m glad I read it, and I can see why it has remained so influential throughout history.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first heard of this book about 20 years ago, and it has been on my radar to eventually check out ever since then. This version of the book had an intro, then "Art of War," and then a long analysis of the book, sharing a lot of historical facts along the way. There was much more material in this book that isn't the true "Art of War," than there is Sun Tzu's work itself. Even so, I still valued the experience.

[Lucinda Reed · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick read. Easy to understand and offers an interesting insight to ancient warfare. A basic read and to the point.