cover image The Art of War Box: Book and Card Deck

The Art of War Box: Book and Card Deck

Lao Tzu, Sun Tzu, Sunzi. Shambhala Publications, $19.95 (160pp) ISBN 978-1-59030-071-8

This striking gift package contains a wealth of materials: a paperback edition of Sun Tzu's classic ""Art of War""; 50 two-color cards with a quote from Sun Tzu on one side and a brief commentary on the other; a stand for readers to hold each card as they meditate on its meaning; and a pamphlet describing how to use the cards for personal growth. ""Though the 'Art of War' was originally written for the military, it applies to all aspects of our lives,"" write the editors, who stress the modern relevance of this 2,300-year-old text for learning how to manage conflict without aggression. The quotation cards are particularly helpful for applying Sun Tzu's teachings to broad situations, and for helping readers imagine themselves as ""the sage commander."" In addition to a full translation of Sun Tzu's classic, the book also offers three essays on its interpretation. This is an ideal gift for those who might be interested in Eastern approaches to conflict resolution.