The Art of War (Translated by Ralph D. Sawyer)

If you just want the basic version of the book, get a shorter less expensive version but if you want every comment and footnote possible to really understand this book, get this one.

My son asked for this book. It was so easy to purchase and have delivered in time for Christmas.

Good book

Ralph Sawyer's book contains a tremendous amount of information about The Art of War. About 20% of the book is Sawyer's translation of Sun Tzu's theories (The Art of War). My quick take is that Sawyer's translation is excellent. The rest of the book contains historical background information, introductions, and extensive notes.The translated text is interesting and easy to read (which is why I give Sawyer high marks for the translation. On the plus side, Sawyer provides a tremendous amount of detailed information. On the other hand, Sawyer's text isn't particularly well written; the readability is only passable.More importantly, Sawyer deserves credit for the extensive notes (which contain an amazing amount of additional information) and a thorough bibliography.

Please look up the Sawyer version before buying so you know what to expect--I saw several bad reviews and complaints about the extra historical reference information included in this book, which was the reason I bought it. This is an informed study and translation of the text. If you are looking for the short version, look elsewhere.

Bought it to maybe learn how to play Warzone better, given the title and all. It worked. It’s insightful, and has lessons applicable to real life. The whole translation section is lengthy for no good reason, but gives good story

Take what helps you and leave the rest

Fantastic fare for a history buff. I just happened to hear about this book through a management student. Checking it out on amazon I decided to get it because I like "history". Well this 74 yr old went into history heaven. I learned so much about Ancient China, it's dynesties, social culture,customs,inventions,art and much more. Spending hours on my pc looking up these things I learned a lot - never to late - and enjoyed myself even more. Sun Tzu also surprised me with sayings one can find in the Book of Proverbs ! Good choice for anyone even if you are not into management that much.

A must read

Introduction is very detailed (almost too detailed) but once you get past that the book becomes very very interesting.

Great book, old but useful.

It a really good book

Brilliant discourse that’s applicable in all walks of life