aphoristic and enlightening, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not especially interested in military history, neither am I a manager or businessman, but I still found this book very enjoyable. It has the rare appeal of being of its time but at the same time applicable to the present day. Many of the insights feel very contemporary - not simply to the business arena but to any aspect of life. The style is terse and aphoristic, which means that it doesn't really matter that the book is quite short. Even the chapters on terrain tactics are interesting from a historical point of view. I would also recommend a book called the Fall by Steve Taylor for its insights into the origins and history of warfare and social conflict The Fall:the Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era: The Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era



Short, snappy and very readable, 08 Sep 2008
I bought this as I am quite interested in military history, and thought I couldn't really go wrong with £3. Instead of the paragraphs of thick text I expected, instead the book is laid out with numbered points in a series of about 13 chapters.

The text never becomes heavy, but instead is written in a very accessible way meaning it is easy to dip in and out of the book as you like. Also I thought that maybe the text would be outdated and irrelevant, but instead with a bit of common sense it can apply to us today.

All in all, very readable and well worth the money, especially if you need to purchase something to get free postage!

Not what I was expecting, but quirky and useful, 04 Jun 2008
I was expecting a huge tome full of Confuscian statements which are allegorical to warfare. What I received was a 69-page book of short instructions which are dirrectly about warfare, but in many cases allegorical to life.

Possibly they're all in some way applicable to the day-to-day, the fighting with fire section does seem a bit specialised, but doubtless the scales will fall from my eyes at some stage and I will be able to use its teachings in buying tangerines from waitrose.

The best thing about the book is the ability to spice up conversation. Never again will I use a hackneyed marketing phrase where something from Sun Tzu will work. Brilliant.

A must read book !, 25 Sep 2007
Short but Sweet !
Applicable theories even today !
Must Read, more than once !

aphoristic and enlightening, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not especially interested in military history, neither am I a manager or businessman, but I still found this book very enjoyable. It has the rare appeal of being of its time but at the same time applicable to the present day. Many of the insights feel very contemporary - not simply to the business arena but to any aspect of life. The style is terse and aphoristic, which means that it doesn't really matter that the book is quite short. Even the chapters on terrain tactics are interesting from a historical point of view. I would also recommend a book called the Fall by Steve Taylor for its insights into the origins and history of warfare and social conflict The Fall:the Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era: The Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era



Short, snappy and very readable, 08 Sep 2008
I bought this as I am quite interested in military history, and thought I couldn't really go wrong with £3. Instead of the paragraphs of thick text I expected, instead the book is laid out with numbered points in a series of about 13 chapters.

The text never becomes heavy, but instead is written in a very accessible way meaning it is easy to dip in and out of the book as you like. Also I thought that maybe the text would be outdated and irrelevant, but instead with a bit of common sense it can apply to us today.

All in all, very readable and well worth the money, especially if you need to purchase something to get free postage!

Not what I was expecting, but quirky and useful, 04 Jun 2008
I was expecting a huge tome full of Confuscian statements which are allegorical to warfare. What I received was a 69-page book of short instructions which are dirrectly about warfare, but in many cases allegorical to life.

Possibly they're all in some way applicable to the day-to-day, the fighting with fire section does seem a bit specialised, but doubtless the scales will fall from my eyes at some stage and I will be able to use its teachings in buying tangerines from waitrose.

The best thing about the book is the ability to spice up conversation. Never again will I use a hackneyed marketing phrase where something from Sun Tzu will work. Brilliant.

A must read book !, 25 Sep 2007
Short but Sweet !
Applicable theories even today !
Must Read, more than once !


A good translation, 11 Oct 2008
The translator in this book was Lionel Giles, I have his translation of this, in a more extensive version. The translation I have is most amusing because Lionel Giles enters into discussion of the commentaries and also enters into a critique of the other contemporary (circa 1908) and prior translations. Lionel Giles is bitchy and vituperative about the other European translators (particularly one unfortunate Captain Calthrop), which is most entertaining to read. The Art of War itself is a short book, and Giles' translation is probably as good as we are going to get, so if the book itself is all you need, get this. If you want information and entertainment, purchase a longer version of the Giles translation, it is both enlightening and hugely entertaining.

A small book with a large content !!!, 03 Sep 2007
Sun Tzu on the Art of War, an ancient Chinese treatise on military strategy, is now required reading at military, business, and law schools in the United States and around the world. Possibly no book in history better describes how to win conflicts in any profession. Those who must succeed in highly competitive environments frequently use Sun Tzu's philosophies as the cornerstone of their ways.
A small book with a large content !!!

Massively overrated, 07 Jun 2007
I have heard some rave reviews about this book. People seem to think it is eminantly relevant today. Others claim all officers in the forces should be made to read it. These are frankly bizarre claims.
All there is to this book is a series of anecdotes on how to marshall, motivate etc an ancient army. Truly, I cannot see how anyone in this day and age can find anything here to influence their life in any way. There comes a time, when even the greatest writers cease to have any impact, I would venture to say that Sun Tzu ceased to be relevant since the advent of modern warfare.
Many of the techniques he claims, though they may have worked in ancient times, are simply not practical. For instance, you can't execute people in this day and age, whether they be enemy, spies, or even traitors. Modern legislation and, indeed, modern sensibilities render this nothing more than a quaint insight into a time long lost to us.

interesting..., 05 Nov 2006
I am on a business and management course at university and have read many books on management and business (I mean alot). I bought this book based on its status as a book that has achieved mythological status in todays world and, wanted to see what the fuss was about.

And to be honest I was very interested by many of the things that are said. Having read as many business and management books as I have I can say that this book is higly relevant to todays modern management systems. Many of his lines sum up whole chapters of books I have read.

The difficulty is in finding where it fits, Ive read it through twice now and have discovered many more points that are still very valid and applicable in todays world.

One of the more obvious ones is: One of the five factors from which victory can be known, 'One whos upper and lower ranks have the same desires will be victorious'. This is a very brief way of speaking on a term some might know as 'Shared Vision', Senge anyone?

This is just the most obvious and there are many more take my word for it you have to be able to read between the lines though and understand some of what he says in a modern day context, as with other reviewers there are parts of it such as terrain tactics which may not be of use. The overall book however has many valid points and i'd recommend it to anyone, the business professional or just someone interested in the book for itself.

A Small Package Containing A Lot Of Wisdom, 29 Jul 2006
I don't have much to say, just read it with an open mind, incredible ! Dont't expect a big package in your post, the book measures approx. 7 x 8 cm's.

aphoristic and enlightening, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not especially interested in military history, neither am I a manager or businessman, but I still found this book very enjoyable. It has the rare appeal of being of its time but at the same time applicable to the present day. Many of the insights feel very contemporary - not simply to the business arena but to any aspect of life. The style is terse and aphoristic, which means that it doesn't really matter that the book is quite short. Even the chapters on terrain tactics are interesting from a historical point of view. I would also recommend a book called the Fall by Steve Taylor for its insights into the origins and history of warfare and social conflict The Fall:the Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era: The Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era



Short, snappy and very readable, 08 Sep 2008
I bought this as I am quite interested in military history, and thought I couldn't really go wrong with £3. Instead of the paragraphs of thick text I expected, instead the book is laid out with numbered points in a series of about 13 chapters.

The text never becomes heavy, but instead is written in a very accessible way meaning it is easy to dip in and out of the book as you like. Also I thought that maybe the text would be outdated and irrelevant, but instead with a bit of common sense it can apply to us today.

All in all, very readable and well worth the money, especially if you need to purchase something to get free postage!

Not what I was expecting, but quirky and useful, 04 Jun 2008
I was expecting a huge tome full of Confuscian statements which are allegorical to warfare. What I received was a 69-page book of short instructions which are dirrectly about warfare, but in many cases allegorical to life.

Possibly they're all in some way applicable to the day-to-day, the fighting with fire section does seem a bit specialised, but doubtless the scales will fall from my eyes at some stage and I will be able to use its teachings in buying tangerines from waitrose.

The best thing about the book is the ability to spice up conversation. Never again will I use a hackneyed marketing phrase where something from Sun Tzu will work. Brilliant.

A must read book !, 25 Sep 2007
Short but Sweet !
Applicable theories even today !
Must Read, more than once !


A good translation, 11 Oct 2008
The translator in this book was Lionel Giles, I have his translation of this, in a more extensive version. The translation I have is most amusing because Lionel Giles enters into discussion of the commentaries and also enters into a critique of the other contemporary (circa 1908) and prior translations. Lionel Giles is bitchy and vituperative about the other European translators (particularly one unfortunate Captain Calthrop), which is most entertaining to read. The Art of War itself is a short book, and Giles' translation is probably as good as we are going to get, so if the book itself is all you need, get this. If you want information and entertainment, purchase a longer version of the Giles translation, it is both enlightening and hugely entertaining.

A small book with a large content !!!, 03 Sep 2007
Sun Tzu on the Art of War, an ancient Chinese treatise on military strategy, is now required reading at military, business, and law schools in the United States and around the world. Possibly no book in history better describes how to win conflicts in any profession. Those who must succeed in highly competitive environments frequently use Sun Tzu's philosophies as the cornerstone of their ways.
A small book with a large content !!!

Massively overrated, 07 Jun 2007
I have heard some rave reviews about this book. People seem to think it is eminantly relevant today. Others claim all officers in the forces should be made to read it. These are frankly bizarre claims.
All there is to this book is a series of anecdotes on how to marshall, motivate etc an ancient army. Truly, I cannot see how anyone in this day and age can find anything here to influence their life in any way. There comes a time, when even the greatest writers cease to have any impact, I would venture to say that Sun Tzu ceased to be relevant since the advent of modern warfare.
Many of the techniques he claims, though they may have worked in ancient times, are simply not practical. For instance, you can't execute people in this day and age, whether they be enemy, spies, or even traitors. Modern legislation and, indeed, modern sensibilities render this nothing more than a quaint insight into a time long lost to us.

interesting..., 05 Nov 2006
I am on a business and management course at university and have read many books on management and business (I mean alot). I bought this book based on its status as a book that has achieved mythological status in todays world and, wanted to see what the fuss was about.

And to be honest I was very interested by many of the things that are said. Having read as many business and management books as I have I can say that this book is higly relevant to todays modern management systems. Many of his lines sum up whole chapters of books I have read.

The difficulty is in finding where it fits, Ive read it through twice now and have discovered many more points that are still very valid and applicable in todays world.

One of the more obvious ones is: One of the five factors from which victory can be known, 'One whos upper and lower ranks have the same desires will be victorious'. This is a very brief way of speaking on a term some might know as 'Shared Vision', Senge anyone?

This is just the most obvious and there are many more take my word for it you have to be able to read between the lines though and understand some of what he says in a modern day context, as with other reviewers there are parts of it such as terrain tactics which may not be of use. The overall book however has many valid points and i'd recommend it to anyone, the business professional or just someone interested in the book for itself.

A Small Package Containing A Lot Of Wisdom, 29 Jul 2006
I don't have much to say, just read it with an open mind, incredible ! Dont't expect a big package in your post, the book measures approx. 7 x 8 cm's.

I've not read this edition, 05 Oct 2008
I have three copies of Sun Tzu's Art of War, one fairly expensive by Cleary, and two cheaper translations, I like the expensive one least of the three for it's pushing of a pacifist Taoism that isn't in the others.

Victor Harris's translation of the book of five rings is fine.

review and non-review, 11 Oct 2007
This book actually has two translations by Thomas Cleary of two books from Japanese martial artists. My thoughts on both and a short comparison are below.

The Book of Five Rings is a pretty good insight into a disciplined mind and professional samurai from 17th century Japan. A lot of it is practical advice and there is some spiritual Zen leaning in there too but I would not go as far to say it is required leadership reading material in the same way as The Art of War by Sun Tzu but no martial artist should be without this book.

The second translation in the book is The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War by Yahyu Munenori is far more flowery and makes more sense if you have an understanding of buddhism otherwise the section on existance and non-existance may (or may not be ;-)) be tricky to grasp.

In comparision the first book is plainly superior to the second in the manner in which it is written and executed. It's plain talkng and easy to grasp with none of the flowery language prevalent in the second.

Two Books for the Price of One!! - Musashi & Munenori together in one place!!, 01 Jul 2007
Unlike the dozens of other translations of "The Book of Five Rings", this one also contains "The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War" by Yagyu Munenori (A contemporary of Musashi). How's that for value for money?!

The Book of Five Rings (Go Rin No Sho) is a GREAT book! If you take time to properly absorb and understand ALL of its teachings. It's not a very long book and so would be easy to read a few times over so that you get a proper flavour of the important message being presented. Thomas Cleary is a prolific writer and well qualified to produce such a translation.

A better and easier to digest version (IMHO) of this small book is "Samurai Strategies: 42 Martial Secrets" by Boye De Lafayette Mente, who very cleverly summarises this book into 42 easy to digest and understand and apply chapters.

The ideas in this book are NOT dangerous to anyone in the least, IF you balance and apply ALL of the lessons within it - that's the idea that the great undefeated warrior Musashi was trying to put across. The life saving principles he expounds here are designed to help us all have a better, easier and more fulfilled life, Martial Artist or not. His strategies can be applied and used by anyone.

"A knife is dangerous for anyone - you just have to learn how to use is safely & intelligently"

We are all so lucky & truly blessed that, nearly 400 years ago, someone called Lord Hosokawa had the foresight to ask the ageing Musashi to write down his secrets of success. Musashi himself was not only extremely talented but must have been a very intelligent man for his time to write such a treatise.

The comment (else ware) about this book not being for beginners is misleading I think, it isn't that hard to understand and extrapolate the true meaning and intentions that Musashi was trying to put across.

Don't be put off by ANY of the negative criticisms (in other reviews), it's only because they've missed the point or just quickly scanned & glossed over the book.

Although we are not entirely certain of Musashi's religious bent, Musashi bases his book [loosely] on the Zen Buddhist philosophies of the Five Elements - Earth, Water, Fire, Wind & Emptiness. One of his close associates was Takuan Soho, author of "The Unfettered Mind".

Prince Arjuna faced a dilemma that many face sooner or later--whether or not to take action that is necessary yet morally ambiguous. The difference is that Arjuna's action was to wage war against his own family. With the armies arrayed, Arjuna loses his nerve. Krishna, his charioteer and incarnation of divine consciousness, begins to teach him the nature of God and of himself, that Arjuna can attain liberation through union with God, and that there are several available paths. And so the most famous and revered of all Hindu scriptures goes on to teach the paths of knowledge, of devotion, of action, and of meditation, becoming the seed for all the Hindu systems of philosophy and religion that followed. For all of its profundity, Eknath Easwaran manages to translate the Gita in easy prose that neither panders nor obscures. Coupled with his thorough introduction, Easwaran's version comes off on all the levels it should: as a guide to action, as devotional scripture, as a philosophical text, and as inspirational reading. So what does Arjuna finally do? He follows his dharma, of course, as we all must. --Brian Bruya

aphoristic and enlightening, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not especially interested in military history, neither am I a manager or businessman, but I still found this book very enjoyable. It has the rare appeal of being of its time but at the same time applicable to the present day. Many of the insights feel very contemporary - not simply to the business arena but to any aspect of life. The style is terse and aphoristic, which means that it doesn't really matter that the book is quite short. Even the chapters on terrain tactics are interesting from a historical point of view. I would also recommend a book called the Fall by Steve Taylor for its insights into the origins and history of warfare and social conflict The Fall:the Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era: The Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era



Short, snappy and very readable, 08 Sep 2008
I bought this as I am quite interested in military history, and thought I couldn't really go wrong with £3. Instead of the paragraphs of thick text I expected, instead the book is laid out with numbered points in a series of about 13 chapters.

The text never becomes heavy, but instead is written in a very accessible way meaning it is easy to dip in and out of the book as you like. Also I thought that maybe the text would be outdated and irrelevant, but instead with a bit of common sense it can apply to us today.

All in all, very readable and well worth the money, especially if you need to purchase something to get free postage!

Not what I was expecting, but quirky and useful, 04 Jun 2008
I was expecting a huge tome full of Confuscian statements which are allegorical to warfare. What I received was a 69-page book of short instructions which are dirrectly about warfare, but in many cases allegorical to life.

Possibly they're all in some way applicable to the day-to-day, the fighting with fire section does seem a bit specialised, but doubtless the scales will fall from my eyes at some stage and I will be able to use its teachings in buying tangerines from waitrose.

The best thing about the book is the ability to spice up conversation. Never again will I use a hackneyed marketing phrase where something from Sun Tzu will work. Brilliant.

A must read book !, 25 Sep 2007
Short but Sweet !
Applicable theories even today !
Must Read, more than once !


A good translation, 11 Oct 2008
The translator in this book was Lionel Giles, I have his translation of this, in a more extensive version. The translation I have is most amusing because Lionel Giles enters into discussion of the commentaries and also enters into a critique of the other contemporary (circa 1908) and prior translations. Lionel Giles is bitchy and vituperative about the other European translators (particularly one unfortunate Captain Calthrop), which is most entertaining to read. The Art of War itself is a short book, and Giles' translation is probably as good as we are going to get, so if the book itself is all you need, get this. If you want information and entertainment, purchase a longer version of the Giles translation, it is both enlightening and hugely entertaining.

A small book with a large content !!!, 03 Sep 2007
Sun Tzu on the Art of War, an ancient Chinese treatise on military strategy, is now required reading at military, business, and law schools in the United States and around the world. Possibly no book in history better describes how to win conflicts in any profession. Those who must succeed in highly competitive environments frequently use Sun Tzu's philosophies as the cornerstone of their ways.
A small book with a large content !!!

Massively overrated, 07 Jun 2007
I have heard some rave reviews about this book. People seem to think it is eminantly relevant today. Others claim all officers in the forces should be made to read it. These are frankly bizarre claims.
All there is to this book is a series of anecdotes on how to marshall, motivate etc an ancient army. Truly, I cannot see how anyone in this day and age can find anything here to influence their life in any way. There comes a time, when even the greatest writers cease to have any impact, I would venture to say that Sun Tzu ceased to be relevant since the advent of modern warfare.
Many of the techniques he claims, though they may have worked in ancient times, are simply not practical. For instance, you can't execute people in this day and age, whether they be enemy, spies, or even traitors. Modern legislation and, indeed, modern sensibilities render this nothing more than a quaint insight into a time long lost to us.

interesting..., 05 Nov 2006
I am on a business and management course at university and have read many books on management and business (I mean alot). I bought this book based on its status as a book that has achieved mythological status in todays world and, wanted to see what the fuss was about.

And to be honest I was very interested by many of the things that are said. Having read as many business and management books as I have I can say that this book is higly relevant to todays modern management systems. Many of his lines sum up whole chapters of books I have read.

The difficulty is in finding where it fits, Ive read it through twice now and have discovered many more points that are still very valid and applicable in todays world.

One of the more obvious ones is: One of the five factors from which victory can be known, 'One whos upper and lower ranks have the same desires will be victorious'. This is a very brief way of speaking on a term some might know as 'Shared Vision', Senge anyone?

This is just the most obvious and there are many more take my word for it you have to be able to read between the lines though and understand some of what he says in a modern day context, as with other reviewers there are parts of it such as terrain tactics which may not be of use. The overall book however has many valid points and i'd recommend it to anyone, the business professional or just someone interested in the book for itself.

A Small Package Containing A Lot Of Wisdom, 29 Jul 2006
I don't have much to say, just read it with an open mind, incredible ! Dont't expect a big package in your post, the book measures approx. 7 x 8 cm's.

I've not read this edition, 05 Oct 2008
I have three copies of Sun Tzu's Art of War, one fairly expensive by Cleary, and two cheaper translations, I like the expensive one least of the three for it's pushing of a pacifist Taoism that isn't in the others.

Victor Harris's translation of the book of five rings is fine.

review and non-review, 11 Oct 2007
This book actually has two translations by Thomas Cleary of two books from Japanese martial artists. My thoughts on both and a short comparison are below.

The Book of Five Rings is a pretty good insight into a disciplined mind and professional samurai from 17th century Japan. A lot of it is practical advice and there is some spiritual Zen leaning in there too but I would not go as far to say it is required leadership reading material in the same way as The Art of War by Sun Tzu but no martial artist should be without this book.

The second translation in the book is The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War by Yahyu Munenori is far more flowery and makes more sense if you have an understanding of buddhism otherwise the section on existance and non-existance may (or may not be ;-)) be tricky to grasp.

In comparision the first book is plainly superior to the second in the manner in which it is written and executed. It's plain talkng and easy to grasp with none of the flowery language prevalent in the second.

Two Books for the Price of One!! - Musashi & Munenori together in one place!!, 01 Jul 2007
Unlike the dozens of other translations of "The Book of Five Rings", this one also contains "The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War" by Yagyu Munenori (A contemporary of Musashi). How's that for value for money?!

The Book of Five Rings (Go Rin No Sho) is a GREAT book! If you take time to properly absorb and understand ALL of its teachings. It's not a very long book and so would be easy to read a few times over so that you get a proper flavour of the important message being presented. Thomas Cleary is a prolific writer and well qualified to produce such a translation.

A better and easier to digest version (IMHO) of this small book is "Samurai Strategies: 42 Martial Secrets" by Boye De Lafayette Mente, who very cleverly summarises this book into 42 easy to digest and understand and apply chapters.

The ideas in this book are NOT dangerous to anyone in the least, IF you balance and apply ALL of the lessons within it - that's the idea that the great undefeated warrior Musashi was trying to put across. The life saving principles he expounds here are designed to help us all have a better, easier and more fulfilled life, Martial Artist or not. His strategies can be applied and used by anyone.

"A knife is dangerous for anyone - you just have to learn how to use is safely & intelligently"

We are all so lucky & truly blessed that, nearly 400 years ago, someone called Lord Hosokawa had the foresight to ask the ageing Musashi to write down his secrets of success. Musashi himself was not only extremely talented but must have been a very intelligent man for his time to write such a treatise.

The comment (else ware) about this book not being for beginners is misleading I think, it isn't that hard to understand and extrapolate the true meaning and intentions that Musashi was trying to put across.

Don't be put off by ANY of the negative criticisms (in other reviews), it's only because they've missed the point or just quickly scanned & glossed over the book.

Although we are not entirely certain of Musashi's religious bent, Musashi bases his book [loosely] on the Zen Buddhist philosophies of the Five Elements - Earth, Water, Fire, Wind & Emptiness. One of his close associates was Takuan Soho, author of "The Unfettered Mind".

One of the most important books I am going to read in my lifetime., 03 Sep 2008
This version is very readable, short and simple yet packed with concepts. You have to read this! There is a reason why this version is the most popular one especially for someone like me who doesn't know much on Hinduism.

I am looking to buy other versions now to understand this great work.

A must read, 04 Jul 2006
I'm buying this as I'll soon have to give the library copy back! The library copy is ISBN 0-14-019008-2 which I hope is an older edition of the same text.

Arjuna asks questions that I think a lot of us do end up asking. The responses and Arjuna's followup questions are quite inspirational. Having Arjuna as a soldier makes things even more interesting. The soldier must deal with the moral questions of a job which involves killing.

I don't know whether I found this easier to read because I'd already learned a lot about the philosophy of yoga before I read it. A lot of yoga texts refer back to this, and for a yogi I think it is great to go back to the beginning and the original meanings of why we're doing all this. Eknath's text does introduce the concepts incredibly well, so the book should be able to stand out on its own without previous knowledge.

It also puts the different paths into perspective. Eknath's discussion covers other philosophies including Christianity in relation to this and allows you to see how much they all have in common.

Readable and made relevant for today, 15 May 2006
No wonder this is the best-selling translation of this Indian classic work! Easwaran gives a full introduction, putting the Gita into the context of the literature and traditions of the time, and showing how it relates to modern philosophy. Sanskrit concepts that are quite difficult to translate into English are explained carefully, as is the relationship with Yoga. The translation itself is vivid and convincing, and the book is cleverly divided, with each chapter preceded by a clear explanation of the difficult concepts to come in that chapter.

aphoristic and enlightening, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not especially interested in military history, neither am I a manager or businessman, but I still found this book very enjoyable. It has the rare appeal of being of its time but at the same time applicable to the present day. Many of the insights feel very contemporary - not simply to the business arena but to any aspect of life. The style is terse and aphoristic, which means that it doesn't really matter that the book is quite short. Even the chapters on terrain tactics are interesting from a historical point of view. I would also recommend a book called the Fall by Steve Taylor for its insights into the origins and history of warfare and social conflict The Fall:the Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era: The Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era



Short, snappy and very readable, 08 Sep 2008
I bought this as I am quite interested in military history, and thought I couldn't really go wrong with £3. Instead of the paragraphs of thick text I expected, instead the book is laid out with numbered points in a series of about 13 chapters.

The text never becomes heavy, but instead is written in a very accessible way meaning it is easy to dip in and out of the book as you like. Also I thought that maybe the text would be outdated and irrelevant, but instead with a bit of common sense it can apply to us today.

All in all, very readable and well worth the money, especially if you need to purchase something to get free postage!

Not what I was expecting, but quirky and useful, 04 Jun 2008
I was expecting a huge tome full of Confuscian statements which are allegorical to warfare. What I received was a 69-page book of short instructions which are dirrectly about warfare, but in many cases allegorical to life.

Possibly they're all in some way applicable to the day-to-day, the fighting with fire section does seem a bit specialised, but doubtless the scales will fall from my eyes at some stage and I will be able to use its teachings in buying tangerines from waitrose.

The best thing about the book is the ability to spice up conversation. Never again will I use a hackneyed marketing phrase where something from Sun Tzu will work. Brilliant.

A must read book !, 25 Sep 2007
Short but Sweet !
Applicable theories even today !
Must Read, more than once !


A good translation, 11 Oct 2008
The translator in this book was Lionel Giles, I have his translation of this, in a more extensive version. The translation I have is most amusing because Lionel Giles enters into discussion of the commentaries and also enters into a critique of the other contemporary (circa 1908) and prior translations. Lionel Giles is bitchy and vituperative about the other European translators (particularly one unfortunate Captain Calthrop), which is most entertaining to read. The Art of War itself is a short book, and Giles' translation is probably as good as we are going to get, so if the book itself is all you need, get this. If you want information and entertainment, purchase a longer version of the Giles translation, it is both enlightening and hugely entertaining.

A small book with a large content !!!, 03 Sep 2007
Sun Tzu on the Art of War, an ancient Chinese treatise on military strategy, is now required reading at military, business, and law schools in the United States and around the world. Possibly no book in history better describes how to win conflicts in any profession. Those who must succeed in highly competitive environments frequently use Sun Tzu's philosophies as the cornerstone of their ways.
A small book with a large content !!!

Massively overrated, 07 Jun 2007
I have heard some rave reviews about this book. People seem to think it is eminantly relevant today. Others claim all officers in the forces should be made to read it. These are frankly bizarre claims.
All there is to this book is a series of anecdotes on how to marshall, motivate etc an ancient army. Truly, I cannot see how anyone in this day and age can find anything here to influence their life in any way. There comes a time, when even the greatest writers cease to have any impact, I would venture to say that Sun Tzu ceased to be relevant since the advent of modern warfare.
Many of the techniques he claims, though they may have worked in ancient times, are simply not practical. For instance, you can't execute people in this day and age, whether they be enemy, spies, or even traitors. Modern legislation and, indeed, modern sensibilities render this nothing more than a quaint insight into a time long lost to us.

interesting..., 05 Nov 2006
I am on a business and management course at university and have read many books on management and business (I mean alot). I bought this book based on its status as a book that has achieved mythological status in todays world and, wanted to see what the fuss was about.

And to be honest I was very interested by many of the things that are said. Having read as many business and management books as I have I can say that this book is higly relevant to todays modern management systems. Many of his lines sum up whole chapters of books I have read.

The difficulty is in finding where it fits, Ive read it through twice now and have discovered many more points that are still very valid and applicable in todays world.

One of the more obvious ones is: One of the five factors from which victory can be known, 'One whos upper and lower ranks have the same desires will be victorious'. This is a very brief way of speaking on a term some might know as 'Shared Vision', Senge anyone?

This is just the most obvious and there are many more take my word for it you have to be able to read between the lines though and understand some of what he says in a modern day context, as with other reviewers there are parts of it such as terrain tactics which may not be of use. The overall book however has many valid points and i'd recommend it to anyone, the business professional or just someone interested in the book for itself.

A Small Package Containing A Lot Of Wisdom, 29 Jul 2006
I don't have much to say, just read it with an open mind, incredible ! Dont't expect a big package in your post, the book measures approx. 7 x 8 cm's.

I've not read this edition, 05 Oct 2008
I have three copies of Sun Tzu's Art of War, one fairly expensive by Cleary, and two cheaper translations, I like the expensive one least of the three for it's pushing of a pacifist Taoism that isn't in the others.

Victor Harris's translation of the book of five rings is fine.

review and non-review, 11 Oct 2007
This book actually has two translations by Thomas Cleary of two books from Japanese martial artists. My thoughts on both and a short comparison are below.

The Book of Five Rings is a pretty good insight into a disciplined mind and professional samurai from 17th century Japan. A lot of it is practical advice and there is some spiritual Zen leaning in there too but I would not go as far to say it is required leadership reading material in the same way as The Art of War by Sun Tzu but no martial artist should be without this book.

The second translation in the book is The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War by Yahyu Munenori is far more flowery and makes more sense if you have an understanding of buddhism otherwise the section on existance and non-existance may (or may not be ;-)) be tricky to grasp.

In comparision the first book is plainly superior to the second in the manner in which it is written and executed. It's plain talkng and easy to grasp with none of the flowery language prevalent in the second.

Two Books for the Price of One!! - Musashi & Munenori together in one place!!, 01 Jul 2007
Unlike the dozens of other translations of "The Book of Five Rings", this one also contains "The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War" by Yagyu Munenori (A contemporary of Musashi). How's that for value for money?!

The Book of Five Rings (Go Rin No Sho) is a GREAT book! If you take time to properly absorb and understand ALL of its teachings. It's not a very long book and so would be easy to read a few times over so that you get a proper flavour of the important message being presented. Thomas Cleary is a prolific writer and well qualified to produce such a translation.

A better and easier to digest version (IMHO) of this small book is "Samurai Strategies: 42 Martial Secrets" by Boye De Lafayette Mente, who very cleverly summarises this book into 42 easy to digest and understand and apply chapters.

The ideas in this book are NOT dangerous to anyone in the least, IF you balance and apply ALL of the lessons within it - that's the idea that the great undefeated warrior Musashi was trying to put across. The life saving principles he expounds here are designed to help us all have a better, easier and more fulfilled life, Martial Artist or not. His strategies can be applied and used by anyone.

"A knife is dangerous for anyone - you just have to learn how to use is safely & intelligently"

We are all so lucky & truly blessed that, nearly 400 years ago, someone called Lord Hosokawa had the foresight to ask the ageing Musashi to write down his secrets of success. Musashi himself was not only extremely talented but must have been a very intelligent man for his time to write such a treatise.

The comment (else ware) about this book not being for beginners is misleading I think, it isn't that hard to understand and extrapolate the true meaning and intentions that Musashi was trying to put across.

Don't be put off by ANY of the negative criticisms (in other reviews), it's only because they've missed the point or just quickly scanned & glossed over the book.

Although we are not entirely certain of Musashi's religious bent, Musashi bases his book [loosely] on the Zen Buddhist philosophies of the Five Elements - Earth, Water, Fire, Wind & Emptiness. One of his close associates was Takuan Soho, author of "The Unfettered Mind".

One of the most important books I am going to read in my lifetime., 03 Sep 2008
This version is very readable, short and simple yet packed with concepts. You have to read this! There is a reason why this version is the most popular one especially for someone like me who doesn't know much on Hinduism.

I am looking to buy other versions now to understand this great work.

A must read, 04 Jul 2006
I'm buying this as I'll soon have to give the library copy back! The library copy is ISBN 0-14-019008-2 which I hope is an older edition of the same text.

Arjuna asks questions that I think a lot of us do end up asking. The responses and Arjuna's followup questions are quite inspirational. Having Arjuna as a soldier makes things even more interesting. The soldier must deal with the moral questions of a job which involves killing.

I don't know whether I found this easier to read because I'd already learned a lot about the philosophy of yoga before I read it. A lot of yoga texts refer back to this, and for a yogi I think it is great to go back to the beginning and the original meanings of why we're doing all this. Eknath's text does introduce the concepts incredibly well, so the book should be able to stand out on its own without previous knowledge.

It also puts the different paths into perspective. Eknath's discussion covers other philosophies including Christianity in relation to this and allows you to see how much they all have in common.

Readable and made relevant for today, 15 May 2006
No wonder this is the best-selling translation of this Indian classic work! Easwaran gives a full introduction, putting the Gita into the context of the literature and traditions of the time, and showing how it relates to modern philosophy. Sanskrit concepts that are quite difficult to translate into English are explained carefully, as is the relationship with Yoga. The translation itself is vivid and convincing, and the book is cleverly divided, with each chapter preceded by a clear explanation of the difficult concepts to come in that chapter.

Best Version on this Subject, 08 Feb 2007
I can't better the other review below except to say that this translation of the Bushido is far easier to read, understand, digest and put into daily practice than the hoards of other versions of "Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai by Tsunetomo Yamamoto" which this book is based upon.

Despite a totally different translation, nothing is lost when you put the two books side by side and compare them to each other.

An earlier, and I think more reliable, version of the Bushi-do was written by Daidôji Yûzan called the "Bushido Shoshinshu: The Warrior's Primer". A translation of which can be seen by either William Scott Wilson or Thomas Cleary.

By the way, the title "Bushi-do" does not mean "Hidden behind the Leaves", that is the translation of the "Hagakure". You will easily recognise the two parts of the word: Bushi (Warrior) & do (the way) - The Way of the Warrior (or Samurai).


A great philosophical book, 19 Oct 2003
The title means "hidden leaves" and is great for people who are trying to learn Japanese culture. The book is great at expressing the arts of the Samurai in times of peace. It was written during the Edo period of Japan which was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate. The idea of the book is not exactly rare, as there are many books written on the Bushido, the way of the Samurai. But it is still a great book, as most other bushido books are written during times of war. This makes Hagakure more useful than most other Bushido books, because people are more likely to relate to this book with their struggles, as it is often used metaphorically by shrewd businessmen and and even military figures in Japan to this day.

aphoristic and enlightening, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not especially interested in military history, neither am I a manager or businessman, but I still found this book very enjoyable. It has the rare appeal of being of its time but at the same time applicable to the present day. Many of the insights feel very contemporary - not simply to the business arena but to any aspect of life. The style is terse and aphoristic, which means that it doesn't really matter that the book is quite short. Even the chapters on terrain tactics are interesting from a historical point of view. I would also recommend a book called the Fall by Steve Taylor for its insights into the origins and history of warfare and social conflict The Fall:the Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era: The Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era



Short, snappy and very readable, 08 Sep 2008
I bought this as I am quite interested in military history, and thought I couldn't really go wrong with £3. Instead of the paragraphs of thick text I expected, instead the book is laid out with numbered points in a series of about 13 chapters.

The text never becomes heavy, but instead is written in a very accessible way meaning it is easy to dip in and out of the book as you like. Also I thought that maybe the text would be outdated and irrelevant, but instead with a bit of common sense it can apply to us today.

All in all, very readable and well worth the money, especially if you need to purchase something to get free postage!

Not what I was expecting, but quirky and useful, 04 Jun 2008
I was expecting a huge tome full of Confuscian statements which are allegorical to warfare. What I received was a 69-page book of short instructions which are dirrectly about warfare, but in many cases allegorical to life.

Possibly they're all in some way applicable to the day-to-day, the fighting with fire section does seem a bit specialised, but doubtless the scales will fall from my eyes at some stage and I will be able to use its teachings in buying tangerines from waitrose.

The best thing about the book is the ability to spice up conversation. Never again will I use a hackneyed marketing phrase where something from Sun Tzu will work. Brilliant.

A must read book !, 25 Sep 2007
Short but Sweet !
Applicable theories even today !
Must Read, more than once !


A good translation, 11 Oct 2008
The translator in this book was Lionel Giles, I have his translation of this, in a more extensive version. The translation I have is most amusing because Lionel Giles enters into discussion of the commentaries and also enters into a critique of the other contemporary (circa 1908) and prior translations. Lionel Giles is bitchy and vituperative about the other European translators (particularly one unfortunate Captain Calthrop), which is most entertaining to read. The Art of War itself is a short book, and Giles' translation is probably as good as we are going to get, so if the book itself is all you need, get this. If you want information and entertainment, purchase a longer version of the Giles translation, it is both enlightening and hugely entertaining.

A small book with a large content !!!, 03 Sep 2007
Sun Tzu on the Art of War, an ancient Chinese treatise on military strategy, is now required reading at military, business, and law schools in the United States and around the world. Possibly no book in history better describes how to win conflicts in any profession. Those who must succeed in highly competitive environments frequently use Sun Tzu's philosophies as the cornerstone of their ways.
A small book with a large content !!!

Massively overrated, 07 Jun 2007
I have heard some rave reviews about this book. People seem to think it is eminantly relevant today. Others claim all officers in the forces should be made to read it. These are frankly bizarre claims.
All there is to this book is a series of anecdotes on how to marshall, motivate etc an ancient army. Truly, I cannot see how anyone in this day and age can find anything here to influence their life in any way. There comes a time, when even the greatest writers cease to have any impact, I would venture to say that Sun Tzu ceased to be relevant since the advent of modern warfare.
Many of the techniques he claims, though they may have worked in ancient times, are simply not practical. For instance, you can't execute people in this day and age, whether they be enemy, spies, or even traitors. Modern legislation and, indeed, modern sensibilities render this nothing more than a quaint insight into a time long lost to us.

interesting..., 05 Nov 2006
I am on a business and management course at university and have read many books on management and business (I mean alot). I bought this book based on its status as a book that has achieved mythological status in todays world and, wanted to see what the fuss was about.

And to be honest I was very interested by many of the things that are said. Having read as many business and management books as I have I can say that this book is higly relevant to todays modern management systems. Many of his lines sum up whole chapters of books I have read.

The difficulty is in finding where it fits, Ive read it through twice now and have discovered many more points that are still very valid and applicable in todays world.

One of the more obvious ones is: One of the five factors from which victory can be known, 'One whos upper and lower ranks have the same desires will be victorious'. This is a very brief way of speaking on a term some might know as 'Shared Vision', Senge anyone?

This is just the most obvious and there are many more take my word for it you have to be able to read between the lines though and understand some of what he says in a modern day context, as with other reviewers there are parts of it such as terrain tactics which may not be of use. The overall book however has many valid points and i'd recommend it to anyone, the business professional or just someone interested in the book for itself.

A Small Package Containing A Lot Of Wisdom, 29 Jul 2006
I don't have much to say, just read it with an open mind, incredible ! Dont't expect a big package in your post, the book measures approx. 7 x 8 cm's.

I've not read this edition, 05 Oct 2008
I have three copies of Sun Tzu's Art of War, one fairly expensive by Cleary, and two cheaper translations, I like the expensive one least of the three for it's pushing of a pacifist Taoism that isn't in the others.

Victor Harris's translation of the book of five rings is fine.

review and non-review, 11 Oct 2007
This book actually has two translations by Thomas Cleary of two books from Japanese martial artists. My thoughts on both and a short comparison are below.

The Book of Five Rings is a pretty good insight into a disciplined mind and professional samurai from 17th century Japan. A lot of it is practical advice and there is some spiritual Zen leaning in there too but I would not go as far to say it is required leadership reading material in the same way as The Art of War by Sun Tzu but no martial artist should be without this book.

The second translation in the book is The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War by Yahyu Munenori is far more flowery and makes more sense if you have an understanding of buddhism otherwise the section on existance and non-existance may (or may not be ;-)) be tricky to grasp.

In comparision the first book is plainly superior to the second in the manner in which it is written and executed. It's plain talkng and easy to grasp with none of the flowery language prevalent in the second.

Two Books for the Price of One!! - Musashi & Munenori together in one place!!, 01 Jul 2007
Unlike the dozens of other translations of "The Book of Five Rings", this one also contains "The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War" by Yagyu Munenori (A contemporary of Musashi). How's that for value for money?!

The Book of Five Rings (Go Rin No Sho) is a GREAT book! If you take time to properly absorb and understand ALL of its teachings. It's not a very long book and so would be easy to read a few times over so that you get a proper flavour of the important message being presented. Thomas Cleary is a prolific writer and well qualified to produce such a translation.

A better and easier to digest version (IMHO) of this small book is "Samurai Strategies: 42 Martial Secrets" by Boye De Lafayette Mente, who very cleverly summarises this book into 42 easy to digest and understand and apply chapters.

The ideas in this book are NOT dangerous to anyone in the least, IF you balance and apply ALL of the lessons within it - that's the idea that the great undefeated warrior Musashi was trying to put across. The life saving principles he expounds here are designed to help us all have a better, easier and more fulfilled life, Martial Artist or not. His strategies can be applied and used by anyone.

"A knife is dangerous for anyone - you just have to learn how to use is safely & intelligently"

We are all so lucky & truly blessed that, nearly 400 years ago, someone called Lord Hosokawa had the foresight to ask the ageing Musashi to write down his secrets of success. Musashi himself was not only extremely talented but must have been a very intelligent man for his time to write such a treatise.

The comment (else ware) about this book not being for beginners is misleading I think, it isn't that hard to understand and extrapolate the true meaning and intentions that Musashi was trying to put across.

Don't be put off by ANY of the negative criticisms (in other reviews), it's only because they've missed the point or just quickly scanned & glossed over the book.

Although we are not entirely certain of Musashi's religious bent, Musashi bases his book [loosely] on the Zen Buddhist philosophies of the Five Elements - Earth, Water, Fire, Wind & Emptiness. One of his close associates was Takuan Soho, author of "The Unfettered Mind".

One of the most important books I am going to read in my lifetime., 03 Sep 2008
This version is very readable, short and simple yet packed with concepts. You have to read this! There is a reason why this version is the most popular one especially for someone like me who doesn't know much on Hinduism.

I am looking to buy other versions now to understand this great work.

A must read, 04 Jul 2006
I'm buying this as I'll soon have to give the library copy back! The library copy is ISBN 0-14-019008-2 which I hope is an older edition of the same text.

Arjuna asks questions that I think a lot of us do end up asking. The responses and Arjuna's followup questions are quite inspirational. Having Arjuna as a soldier makes things even more interesting. The soldier must deal with the moral questions of a job which involves killing.

I don't know whether I found this easier to read because I'd already learned a lot about the philosophy of yoga before I read it. A lot of yoga texts refer back to this, and for a yogi I think it is great to go back to the beginning and the original meanings of why we're doing all this. Eknath's text does introduce the concepts incredibly well, so the book should be able to stand out on its own without previous knowledge.

It also puts the different paths into perspective. Eknath's discussion covers other philosophies including Christianity in relation to this and allows you to see how much they all have in common.

Readable and made relevant for today, 15 May 2006
No wonder this is the best-selling translation of this Indian classic work! Easwaran gives a full introduction, putting the Gita into the context of the literature and traditions of the time, and showing how it relates to modern philosophy. Sanskrit concepts that are quite difficult to translate into English are explained carefully, as is the relationship with Yoga. The translation itself is vivid and convincing, and the book is cleverly divided, with each chapter preceded by a clear explanation of the difficult concepts to come in that chapter.

Best Version on this Subject, 08 Feb 2007
I can't better the other review below except to say that this translation of the Bushido is far easier to read, understand, digest and put into daily practice than the hoards of other versions of "Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai by Tsunetomo Yamamoto" which this book is based upon.

Despite a totally different translation, nothing is lost when you put the two books side by side and compare them to each other.

An earlier, and I think more reliable, version of the Bushi-do was written by Daidôji Yûzan called the "Bushido Shoshinshu: The Warrior's Primer". A translation of which can be seen by either William Scott Wilson or Thomas Cleary.

By the way, the title "Bushi-do" does not mean "Hidden behind the Leaves", that is the translation of the "Hagakure". You will easily recognise the two parts of the word: Bushi (Warrior) & do (the way) - The Way of the Warrior (or Samurai).


A great philosophical book, 19 Oct 2003
The title means "hidden leaves" and is great for people who are trying to learn Japanese culture. The book is great at expressing the arts of the Samurai in times of peace. It was written during the Edo period of Japan which was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate. The idea of the book is not exactly rare, as there are many books written on the Bushido, the way of the Samurai. But it is still a great book, as most other bushido books are written during times of war. This makes Hagakure more useful than most other Bushido books, because people are more likely to relate to this book with their struggles, as it is often used metaphorically by shrewd businessmen and and even military figures in Japan to this day.

An Antidote to Therapy, 02 Jul 2006
I work as a speechwriter and I love this type of book because it's full of quotable stuff.

Lines like, 'You are free to do whatever you like. You need only face the consequences.'

or, 'You can't make anyone love you. You just have to reveal who your are and take your chances.'

He illustrates his theories using some of the Great Classics of Western Literature - Chaucer's Wife of Bath, Kafka's The Castle, John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress and Shakespeare's Macbeth.

The thrust of the book is 'The secret is that there is no secret'. We must all face our problems, there are no real gurus with all the answers. Life is complex, difficult, unpredictable, confusing - fun sometimes - harrowing and depressing at others. We have to find temporary solutions in ourselves. Stories, maxims and metaphors help us do this. It all ends with Kopp's Laundry List - a number of short phrases which sum up his theses. A super book.

Excellent comments on the process of psychotherapy., 20 Feb 1999
Sheldon B. Kopp is an experienced pyschotherapist and has written a very insightful commentary on the process and journey of self realization as well as relating it to many other interesting myths, stories, and philosophies.

Literate discussion of the freedom born of self-knowledge., 19 Oct 1998
The subtitle, "The Pilgramage of Psychotherapy Patients," belies the essence of this highly literate hymn to authenticity and self-governance: each of us must look within to find our own answers. Drawing from the Bible, the I Ching, Siddhartha, Jung and too many others to name, the author urges that living fully requires us to let go of concepts of fairness, perfection and control and embrace the uncertainty and ambiguity of our journey. A liberating, thought provoking paean to autonomy, self acceptance and personal growth. Life Changing!

Excellent insights on the client-therapist relationship, 16 Mar 1998
Just as Rogers was said to have taken the patient off the couch, Sheldon Kopp takes the therapist off his/her pedestal. A must-read for anyone who has ever struggled with the conflictual aims of the therapist and client in a therapeutic process. Unfortunately the latter chapters tend to be more autobiographical and the book loses some of it's impact.

aphoristic and enlightening, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not especially interested in military history, neither am I a manager or businessman, but I still found this book very enjoyable. It has the rare appeal of being of its time but at the same time applicable to the present day. Many of the insights feel very contemporary - not simply to the business arena but to any aspect of life. The style is terse and aphoristic, which means that it doesn't really matter that the book is quite short. Even the chapters on terrain tactics are interesting from a historical point of view. I would also recommend a book called the Fall by Steve Taylor for its insights into the origins and history of warfare and social conflict The Fall:the Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era: The Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era



Short, snappy and very readable, 08 Sep 2008
I bought this as I am quite interested in military history, and thought I couldn't really go wrong with £3. Instead of the paragraphs of thick text I expected, instead the book is laid out with numbered points in a series of about 13 chapters.

The text never becomes heavy, but instead is written in a very accessible way meaning it is easy to dip in and out of the book as you like. Also I thought that maybe the text would be outdated and irrelevant, but instead with a bit of common sense it can apply to us today.

All in all, very readable and well worth the money, especially if you need to purchase something to get free postage!

Not what I was expecting, but quirky and useful, 04 Jun 2008
I was expecting a huge tome full of Confuscian statements which are allegorical to warfare. What I received was a 69-page book of short instructions which are dirrectly about warfare, but in many cases allegorical to life.

Possibly they're all in some way applicable to the day-to-day, the fighting with fire section does seem a bit specialised, but doubtless the scales will fall from my eyes at some stage and I will be able to use its teachings in buying tangerines from waitrose.

The best thing about the book is the ability to spice up conversation. Never again will I use a hackneyed marketing phrase where something from Sun Tzu will work. Brilliant.

A must read book !, 25 Sep 2007
Short but Sweet !
Applicable theories even today !
Must Read, more than once !


A good translation, 11 Oct 2008
The translator in this book was Lionel Giles, I have his translation of this, in a more extensive version. The translation I have is most amusing because Lionel Giles enters into discussion of the commentaries and also enters into a critique of the other contemporary (circa 1908) and prior translations. Lionel Giles is bitchy and vituperative about the other European translators (particularly one unfortunate Captain Calthrop), which is most entertaining to read. The Art of War itself is a short book, and Giles' translation is probably as good as we are going to get, so if the book itself is all you need, get this. If you want information and entertainment, purchase a longer version of the Giles translation, it is both enlightening and hugely entertaining.

A small book with a large content !!!, 03 Sep 2007
Sun Tzu on the Art of War, an ancient Chinese treatise on military strategy, is now required reading at military, business, and law schools in the United States and around the world. Possibly no book in history better describes how to win conflicts in any profession. Those who must succeed in highly competitive environments frequently use Sun Tzu's philosophies as the cornerstone of their ways.
A small book with a large content !!!

Massively overrated, 07 Jun 2007
I have heard some rave reviews about this book. People seem to think it is eminantly relevant today. Others claim all officers in the forces should be made to read it. These are frankly bizarre claims.
All there is to this book is a series of anecdotes on how to marshall, motivate etc an ancient army. Truly, I cannot see how anyone in this day and age can find anything here to influence their life in any way. There comes a time, when even the greatest writers cease to have any impact, I would venture to say that Sun Tzu ceased to be relevant since the advent of modern warfare.
Many of the techniques he claims, though they may have worked in ancient times, are simply not practical. For instance, you can't execute people in this day and age, whether they be enemy, spies, or even traitors. Modern legislation and, indeed, modern sensibilities render this nothing more than a quaint insight into a time long lost to us.

interesting..., 05 Nov 2006
I am on a business and management course at university and have read many books on management and business (I mean alot). I bought this book based on its status as a book that has achieved mythological status in todays world and, wanted to see what the fuss was about.

And to be honest I was very interested by many of the things that are said. Having read as many business and management books as I have I can say that this book is higly relevant to todays modern management systems. Many of his lines sum up whole chapters of books I have read.

The difficulty is in finding where it fits, Ive read it through twice now and have discovered many more points that are still very valid and applicable in todays world.

One of the more obvious ones is: One of the five factors from which victory can be known, 'One whos upper and lower ranks have the same desires will be victorious'. This is a very brief way of speaking on a term some might know as 'Shared Vision', Senge anyone?

This is just the most obvious and there are many more take my word for it you have to be able to read between the lines though and understand some of what he says in a modern day context, as with other reviewers there are parts of it such as terrain tactics which may not be of use. The overall book however has many valid points and i'd recommend it to anyone, the business professional or just someone interested in the book for itself.

A Small Package Containing A Lot Of Wisdom, 29 Jul 2006
I don't have much to say, just read it with an open mind, incredible ! Dont't expect a big package in your post, the book measures approx. 7 x 8 cm's.

I've not read this edition, 05 Oct 2008
I have three copies of Sun Tzu's Art of War, one fairly expensive by Cleary, and two cheaper translations, I like the expensive one least of the three for it's pushing of a pacifist Taoism that isn't in the others.

Victor Harris's translation of the book of five rings is fine.

review and non-review, 11 Oct 2007
This book actually has two translations by Thomas Cleary of two books from Japanese martial artists. My thoughts on both and a short comparison are below.

The Book of Five Rings is a pretty good insight into a disciplined mind and professional samurai from 17th century Japan. A lot of it is practical advice and there is some spiritual Zen leaning in there too but I would not go as far to say it is required leadership reading material in the same way as The Art of War by Sun Tzu but no martial artist should be without this book.

The second translation in the book is The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War by Yahyu Munenori is far more flowery and makes more sense if you have an understanding of buddhism otherwise the section on existance and non-existance may (or may not be ;-)) be tricky to grasp.

In comparision the first book is plainly superior to the second in the manner in which it is written and executed. It's plain talkng and easy to grasp with none of the flowery language prevalent in the second.

Two Books for the Price of One!! - Musashi & Munenori together in one place!!, 01 Jul 2007
Unlike the dozens of other translations of "The Book of Five Rings", this one also contains "The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War" by Yagyu Munenori (A contemporary of Musashi). How's that for value for money?!

The Book of Five Rings (Go Rin No Sho) is a GREAT book! If you take time to properly absorb and understand ALL of its teachings. It's not a very long book and so would be easy to read a few times over so that you get a proper flavour of the important message being presented. Thomas Cleary is a prolific writer and well qualified to produce such a translation.

A better and easier to digest version (IMHO) of this small book is "Samurai Strategies: 42 Martial Secrets" by Boye De Lafayette Mente, who very cleverly summarises this book into 42 easy to digest and understand and apply chapters.

The ideas in this book are NOT dangerous to anyone in the least, IF you balance and apply ALL of the lessons within it - that's the idea that the great undefeated warrior Musashi was trying to put across. The life saving principles he expounds here are designed to help us all have a better, easier and more fulfilled life, Martial Artist or not. His strategies can be applied and used by anyone.

"A knife is dangerous for anyone - you just have to learn how to use is safely & intelligently"

We are all so lucky & truly blessed that, nearly 400 years ago, someone called Lord Hosokawa had the foresight to ask the ageing Musashi to write down his secrets of success. Musashi himself was not only extremely talented but must have been a very intelligent man for his time to write such a treatise.

The comment (else ware) about this book not being for beginners is misleading I think, it isn't that hard to understand and extrapolate the true meaning and intentions that Musashi was trying to put across.

Don't be put off by ANY of the negative criticisms (in other reviews), it's only because they've missed the point or just quickly scanned & glossed over the book.

Although we are not entirely certain of Musashi's religious bent, Musashi bases his book [loosely] on the Zen Buddhist philosophies of the Five Elements - Earth, Water, Fire, Wind & Emptiness. One of his close associates was Takuan Soho, author of "The Unfettered Mind".

One of the most important books I am going to read in my lifetime., 03 Sep 2008
This version is very readable, short and simple yet packed with concepts. You have to read this! There is a reason why this version is the most popular one especially for someone like me who doesn't know much on Hinduism.

I am looking to buy other versions now to understand this great work.

A must read, 04 Jul 2006
I'm buying this as I'll soon have to give the library copy back! The library copy is ISBN 0-14-019008-2 which I hope is an older edition of the same text.

Arjuna asks questions that I think a lot of us do end up asking. The responses and Arjuna's followup questions are quite inspirational. Having Arjuna as a soldier makes things even more interesting. The soldier must deal with the moral questions of a job which involves killing.

I don't know whether I found this easier to read because I'd already learned a lot about the philosophy of yoga before I read it. A lot of yoga texts refer back to this, and for a yogi I think it is great to go back to the beginning and the original meanings of why we're doing all this. Eknath's text does introduce the concepts incredibly well, so the book should be able to stand out on its own without previous knowledge.

It also puts the different paths into perspective. Eknath's discussion covers other philosophies including Christianity in relation to this and allows you to see how much they all have in common.

Readable and made relevant for today, 15 May 2006
No wonder this is the best-selling translation of this Indian classic work! Easwaran gives a full introduction, putting the Gita into the context of the literature and traditions of the time, and showing how it relates to modern philosophy. Sanskrit concepts that are quite difficult to translate into English are explained carefully, as is the relationship with Yoga. The translation itself is vivid and convincing, and the book is cleverly divided, with each chapter preceded by a clear explanation of the difficult concepts to come in that chapter.

Best Version on this Subject, 08 Feb 2007
I can't better the other review below except to say that this translation of the Bushido is far easier to read, understand, digest and put into daily practice than the hoards of other versions of "Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai by Tsunetomo Yamamoto" which this book is based upon.

Despite a totally different translation, nothing is lost when you put the two books side by side and compare them to each other.

An earlier, and I think more reliable, version of the Bushi-do was written by Daidôji Yûzan called the "Bushido Shoshinshu: The Warrior's Primer". A translation of which can be seen by either William Scott Wilson or Thomas Cleary.

By the way, the title "Bushi-do" does not mean "Hidden behind the Leaves", that is the translation of the "Hagakure". You will easily recognise the two parts of the word: Bushi (Warrior) & do (the way) - The Way of the Warrior (or Samurai).


A great philosophical book, 19 Oct 2003
The title means "hidden leaves" and is great for people who are trying to learn Japanese culture. The book is great at expressing the arts of the Samurai in times of peace. It was written during the Edo period of Japan which was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate. The idea of the book is not exactly rare, as there are many books written on the Bushido, the way of the Samurai. But it is still a great book, as most other bushido books are written during times of war. This makes Hagakure more useful than most other Bushido books, because people are more likely to relate to this book with their struggles, as it is often used metaphorically by shrewd businessmen and and even military figures in Japan to this day.

An Antidote to Therapy, 02 Jul 2006
I work as a speechwriter and I love this type of book because it's full of quotable stuff.

Lines like, 'You are free to do whatever you like. You need only face the consequences.'

or, 'You can't make anyone love you. You just have to reveal who your are and take your chances.'

He illustrates his theories using some of the Great Classics of Western Literature - Chaucer's Wife of Bath, Kafka's The Castle, John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress and Shakespeare's Macbeth.

The thrust of the book is 'The secret is that there is no secret'. We must all face our problems, there are no real gurus with all the answers. Life is complex, difficult, unpredictable, confusing - fun sometimes - harrowing and depressing at others. We have to find temporary solutions in ourselves. Stories, maxims and metaphors help us do this. It all ends with Kopp's Laundry List - a number of short phrases which sum up his theses. A super book.

Excellent comments on the process of psychotherapy., 20 Feb 1999
Sheldon B. Kopp is an experienced pyschotherapist and has written a very insightful commentary on the process and journey of self realization as well as relating it to many other interesting myths, stories, and philosophies.

Literate discussion of the freedom born of self-knowledge., 19 Oct 1998
The subtitle, "The Pilgramage of Psychotherapy Patients," belies the essence of this highly literate hymn to authenticity and self-governance: each of us must look within to find our own answers. Drawing from the Bible, the I Ching, Siddhartha, Jung and too many others to name, the author urges that living fully requires us to let go of concepts of fairness, perfection and control and embrace the uncertainty and ambiguity of our journey. A liberating, thought provoking paean to autonomy, self acceptance and personal growth. Life Changing!

Excellent insights on the client-therapist relationship, 16 Mar 1998
Just as Rogers was said to have taken the patient off the couch, Sheldon Kopp takes the therapist off his/her pedestal. A must-read for anyone who has ever struggled with the conflictual aims of the therapist and client in a therapeutic process. Unfortunately the latter chapters tend to be more autobiographical and the book loses some of it's impact.

A reference rather than a guide, 30 Jan 2008
This book deserves the 5 stars for the sheer expanse, the research behind it, and the approachable explanations of a very difficult, convoluted, and relatively undocumented subject. I especially enjoyed the historic context and perspective behind the various systems of yoga, and commend the author's serious attempts to provide a wealth of translated texts from the relatively unknown and mind-bogglingly large library of Hindu scriptures. His love of the subject shines through the effort he must have invested in documenting this knowledge.

The one missing bit which makes this book more an anthology - than a definitive guide for seekers - is that it doesn't come from author's own experiential understanding of the subject. This great work therefore does not speak with authority of a realised master - but is just a pointer on where to look.
However, it did help my own understanding greatly - therefore the 5 stars - and those who look at it for understanding rather than guidance will definitely enjoy it.

Those looking for a 'yoga kick' will unfortunately also find - as the risk remains with Indian traditions - a new ability to spout esoteric words and assumed understanding devoid of experiential meaning. But then, such is life :)

Goldmine of Yoga philosophy and history, 01 May 2006
A must-have book for Yoga teachers and students who are seriously interested in the subject of Yoga and its development.
With illustrations, easy to read layout - a comprehensive survey by a renowned Western scholar. A book which will always enrich and inform, a treasure of a reference book on Yoga - a much-needed antidote to the dumbing down of Yoga as a physical exercise and self-improvement trend.


AWESOME BOOK, 10 Jun 1999
It is very refreshing to see a westerner who really understands the heart,soul,and original pupose of all yogas. Most westerners assume Yoga to be a merely stretches and postures. In reality, there are many different paths of yoga--all invented to ultimately lead the soul to complete liberation, although a lot of people (even some self-designated "gurus") don't know or lose sight of this. I was very sceptical as to whether a westerner giving an honorable representation of this majestic science, and to give an honorable IN-DEPTH presentation at that!

As Ken Wilber states (in other words) in the foreword...we DO have in Feuerstein the perfect and necessary blend of a scientifically minded scholar and devoted practitioner.

HUGE BOOK!!! The size of an actual encyclopedia. But, if you have any clue as to how deep and rich the yoga tradition is, and if you also appreciate it's beauty...or even if you think it's a bunch of hooey and want to know whether you are right or not, it is an immensely scholarly--yet readable sourcebook. MUST HAVE!

(p.s.--I like old george now.)

A fantastic book on Yoga; rich, clear and well organized, 03 Apr 1999
I bought a copy of this book (softcover) and then gave it to my yoga teacher and bought the hardcover. We both love the book. It clearly explains many topics better than most other sources and has a clear organization for such a substantial reference. My first literary source now for Yoga guidance and clarity. thx & namaste

A masterpiece!, 30 Nov 1998
This is a historic publication that will for decades be the most authoritative source for anything on yoga, ranging from its roots to its nurturing within the traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It is written in a very readable style, has a lot of illustrations, and it presents the translations from the originals of some key texts. Simply magnificent! This is a book everyone should have on their personal library shelves. It has also been nicely printed and designed.

aphoristic and enlightening, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not especially interested in military history, neither am I a manager or businessman, but I still found this book very enjoyable. It has the rare appeal of being of its time but at the same time applicable to the present day. Many of the insights feel very contemporary - not simply to the business arena but to any aspect of life. The style is terse and aphoristic, which means that it doesn't really matter that the book is quite short. Even the chapters on terrain tactics are interesting from a historical point of view. I would also recommend a book called the Fall by Steve Taylor for its insights into the origins and history of warfare and social conflict The Fall:the Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era: The Insanity of the Ego in Human History and the Dawning of a New Era



Short, snappy and very readable, 08 Sep 2008
I bought this as I am quite interested in military history, and thought I couldn't really go wrong with £3. Instead of the paragraphs of thick text I expected, instead the book is laid out with numbered points in a series of about 13 chapters.

The text never becomes heavy, but instead is written in a very accessible way meaning it is easy to dip in and out of the book as you like. Also I thought that maybe the text would be outdated and irrelevant, but instead with a bit of common sense it can apply to us today.

All in all, very readable and well worth the money, especially if you need to purchase something to get free postage!

Not what I was expecting, but quirky and useful, 04 Jun 2008
I was expecting a huge tome full of Confuscian statements which are allegorical to warfare. What I received was a 69-page book of short instructions which are dirrectly about warfare, but in many cases allegorical to life.

Possibly they're all in some way applicable to the day-to-day, the fighting with fire section does seem a bit specialised, but doubtless the scales will fall from my eyes at some stage and I will be able to use its teachings in buying tangerines from waitrose.

The best thing about the book is the ability to spice up conversation. Never again will I use a hackneyed marketing phrase where something from Sun Tzu will work. Brilliant.

A must read book !, 25 Sep 2007
Short but Sweet !
Applicable theories even today !
Must Read, more than once !


A good translation, 11 Oct 2008
The translator in this book was Lionel Giles, I have his translation of this, in a more extensive version. The translation I have is most amusing because Lionel Giles enters into discussion of the commentaries and also enters into a critique of the other contemporary (circa 1908) and prior translations. Lionel Giles is bitchy and vituperative about the other European translators (particularly one unfortunate Captain Calthrop), which is most entertaining to read. The Art of War itself is a short book, and Giles' translation is probably as good as we are going to get, so if the book itself is all you need, get this. If you want information and entertainment, purchase a longer version of the Giles translation, it is both enlightening and hugely entertaining.

A small book with a large content !!!, 03 Sep 2007
Sun Tzu on the Art of War, an ancient Chinese treatise on military strategy, is now required reading at military, business, and law schools in the United States and around the world. Possibly no book in history better describes how to win conflicts in any profession. Those who must succeed in highly competitive environments frequently use Sun Tzu's philosophies as the cornerstone of their ways.
A small book with a large content !!!

Massively overrated, 07 Jun 2007
I have heard some rave reviews about this book. People seem to think it is eminantly relevant today. Others claim all officers in the forces should be made to read it. These are frankly bizarre claims.
All there is to this book is a series of anecdotes on how to marshall, motivate etc an ancient army. Truly, I cannot see how anyone in this day and age can find anything here to influence their life in any way. There comes a time, when even the greatest writers cease to have any impact, I would venture to say that Sun Tzu ceased to be relevant since the advent of modern warfare.
Many of the techniques he claims, though they may have worked in ancient times, are simply not practical. For instance, you can't execute people in this day and age, whether they be enemy, spies, or even traitors. Modern legislation and, indeed, modern sensibilities render this nothing more than a quaint insight into a time long lost to us.

interesting..., 05 Nov 2006
I am on a business and management course at university and have read many books on management and business (I mean alot). I bought this book based on its status as a book that has achieved mythological status in todays world and, wanted to see what the fuss was about.

And to be honest I was very interested by many of the things that are said. Having read as many business and management books as I have I can say that this book is higly relevant to todays modern management systems. Many of his lines sum up whole chapters of books I have read.

The difficulty is in finding where it fits, Ive read it through twice now and have discovered many more points that are still very valid and applicable in todays world.

One of the more obvious ones is: One of the five factors from which victory can be known, 'One whos upper and lower ranks have the same desires will be victorious'. This is a very brief way of speaking on a term some might know as 'Shared Vision', Senge anyone?

This is just the most obvious and there are many more take my word for it you have to be able to read between the lines though and understand some of what he says in a modern day context, as with other reviewers there are parts of it such as terrain tactics which may not be of use. The overall book however has many valid points and i'd recommend it to anyone, the business professional or just someone interested in the book for itself.

A Small Package Containing A Lot Of Wisdom, 29 Jul 2006
I don't have much to say, just read it with an open mind, incredible ! Dont't expect a big package in your post, the book measures approx. 7 x 8 cm's.

I've not read this edition, 05 Oct 2008
I have three copies of Sun Tzu's Art of War, one fairly expensive by Cleary, and two cheaper translations, I like the expensive one least of the three for it's pushing of a pacifist Taoism that isn't in the others.
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