The Art of War , written by the Chinese military strategist & general, Sun Tzu, contains detailed explanations of  the several factors of war. Written around the 5th century BCE & the Warring States period of China; considered one of the oldest & “highly influential” books of military strategy & leadership written in history.

Now this book isn’t a traditional book that someone would read for entertainment. It doesn’t have a story, but it tells us of the several factors of war a general or leader would take into consideration. This book is an educational text. One, in Ancient China, used to educate military leaders & rulers. Even in modern times, military forces in Asia such as China, Japan, and Vietnam read The Art of War for military examinations. The text’s ideas & quotes are still in use today, but let us examine the actual content of the book.

In my humble opinion, I believe the actual content of the book to be a bit lackluster. Now although this book was the birth of some of the most famous quotes such as, “All warfare is based on deception,” & “Know your enemy and know yourself,” and it is considered a highly influential book. I feel that it is a bit too simple at times, but I still think that the book is still great. Simpleness is not a bad thing. The entire book wasn’t simple at all; in fact there were times I didn’t understand what was said. Where I had to reflect & analyze the text I read, and take it part by part. Certain parts were complex in nature; as war would be.

The simplicity of a few, certain parts would be my only complaint. I believe this book to be one of elegance & sophistication. One that expresses the complex thought & rationale of an individual during a time of war. One book that is complex, yet understandable to an individual.

I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in historical literature, or anyone who is really bored. I found this book to be very enjoyable, and an interesting perspective to be reading from.