|
|
Sun Tzu's Art of War is probably the most famous book of military theory ever written. It emerged in Ancient China, two and half thousand years ago, and was probably written by a general fighting in the Warring States period. This edition is based on a text from the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), a millennium and a half later.
There are many editions of the Art of War available, so a new one has to have something to make it stand out from the crowd. In this case that something is the quality and design of the physical book. The book has been produced in a traditional Chinese style. The book is printed on very high quality paper. Each sheet is double page in size. An odd numbered page is printed on the left, and the following even numbered page on the right (with the back left blank). The sheet is then folded in half. Holes are punched on the inner edge (near the spine), the complete pile of sheets arranged between two boards and the entire thing sewn together with two silk cords.
The book is organised with the Chinese text and English translation on facing pages. Key thoughts are drawn out above the main text, and the translation is supported by some useful footnotes, often noting areas where the text is probably corrupt or where there are different interpretations.
This is a beautifully produced edition of a classic work of ancient literature. If you don't already own the Art of War then seriously consider this edition.
Chapters
Planning
Waging War
Strategic Offensive
Deployment
Momentum
The Substantial and the Insubstantial
Manoeuvers against the Enemy
The Nine Variables
On the March
Terrain
The Nine Types of Attack
Attacking with Fire
Using Spies
Author: Sun Tzu
Edition: Hardcover
Pages: 96
Publisher: Amber Books
Year: 2011 edition