The Seven Military Classics Of Ancient China (History and Warfare) Paperback – November 6, 2007

Too often we over-focus on Sun Tzu's the art of war when thinking about Chinese military theory, and this book brings six additional ancient Chinese theorists to life, along with Sun Tzu's Art of War. Of particular interest is the quality of the translation of Sun Tzu. In the west, most translations are a derivative of the Gile's translation from 1910. This version, translated by Ralph Sawyer and his wife is much more accurate!

One of the best volumes on the core of historical eastern strategic thought you can get your hands on, which includes some of the more important texts relating to such in a easily digested format. If you want to learn about strategy you're going to want to start with this one and then branch out from there depending on where you want to go with it. I'd also recommend the Tao of Spycraft and Tao of Deception to compliment this particular volume before you dive into Clauswitz and the core concepts of Western strategic thought/total warfare.

The book received from the seller was in excellent condition as advertised.

I, for one, enjoyed this book. I am not here to critic, as a few of these other reviews appear to be. One, the book is easy to understand and follow. Meaning, the translations are well recorded. Two, I have recently been curious in Chinese history of warfare and this book was able to show me much Chinese philosophy towards warfare. I recomend it this book to any follower of military history or Chinese warfare. You get your moneys worth.

Sawyer knows his subject. He is a master of Chinese warfare and culture. He even teaches you how to pronounce some common Chinese words that we in the west always mispronounce.The book is great. It covers a lot --- not just The Art of War, though that's included. It is a complete study of the Chinese strategies of war and I recommend it to those interested in this topic.

Great book for anyone to read, much deeper then the initial messages of war are also many life lessons to follow. I truly feel better knowing I have the knowledge this writing provides.

Good information.

the book was a very good read thank you