The following review was contributed by: ROGER E. HERMAN

 Sun Tzu is recognized as a brilliant military strategist from the ancient Chinese cultures when the world was much different than it is today. Yet, his principles still apply today, particularly in the conduct of business. There are many lessons to be learned.

Gary Gagliardi is acknowledged as America’s leading authority on Sun Tzu, so he has a deep understanding of the teachings of the philosopher and his perspectives on war. The approach he takes is that the art of war is much deeper than just fighting battles. In fact, confrontations are best avoided, according to the concepts explored in the book.

The author explains that all ancient Chinese philosophy and science was based on diagrams. Those diagrams are included in the book with explanations and interpretations that relate the ancient teaching to today’s environment. Gagliardi has already written about the application of Sun Tzu’s teaching to sales, marketing, management, and other modern endeavors.

The organization of the book forces the reader to move slowly to gain understanding and appreciation of the Master’s ideas. The teachings, the interpretation of the diagrams are presented on the left hand pages. On the opposite right hand pages, the author relates the insights to current applications. Reading and absorbing the contents of this book will give the readers strength to think and perform differently—more wisely—in managing both business and personal endeavors. Each of us is engaged in competition, the basis of Sun Tzu’s teachings.

The writings include the Chinese words next to the concepts. While this gives the text an air of greater authenticity and linkage with the original thinking, it can be distracting as this writing technique interrupts the speed of flow of reading…which may be another benefit of the way the book is written. The greatest value from this book will be your contemplation of the application of the principles in your own life.