The Art of War

Whether or not THE ART OF WAR is new to you, this successful offering from the Denma Translation Group is worth adding to your collection. (The original text is attributed to Sun Tzu, circa 300 B.C.) Briefly, the text offers strategies for dealing with conflict in life, from war itself to interpersonal relations. The result of 10 years of analysis and debate, the recording presents the best of both worlds--the pure, unadulterated translation, as well as a translation punctuated by understated commentary. Denma went to great lengths to preserve both the intent and the tone of the oldest extant version of the text. The result is an eminently listenable and informed piece that will instruct and stimulate for years to come. D.J.B. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine


This ancient Chinese treatise on battle strategies and waging war, like Machiavelli's THE PRINCE, is still consulted by despots, generals, and captains of industry. Indeed, the Western world is coming to believe that its Taoist wisdom applies to all sorts of competitive situations. The reliable George Guidall narrates the extensive translator's notes. But first Joe Mantegna, star of TV's FIRST MONDAY, forays through Sun Tzu's admonitions. Mantegna has an unexpressive voice. However his timing, especially his manipulation of pauses and rhythms, is so apt that it --plus a fascinating text -- carries him victoriously through the fray. Y.R. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine

November 1, 2002
Sun-tzu's The Art of War has led military strategists, economists, politicians and other leaders for more than 2,000 years, and has been translated numerous times. Scholar Minford takes a crack at it here, offering a new translation, introduction and commentary. This fundamental volume could be one of the best in recent years, as it features notes on pronunciation, suggestions for further reading, a chronology of Chinese dynasties and historical events, and more. After these briefings, Minford separates the book in two: first, a straightforward translation of Sun-tzu's book, and second, the translation coupled with commentary. "The Art of War is both inspirational and worrying. It is beautiful and chilling....It lends itself to infinite applications," Minford writes. Indeed, this new translation is accessible to anyone seeking guidance, whether they're learning to drive defensively, ironing out relationship kinks or conducting war.