'Thunder in the Sky', 'The Japanese Art of War', 'The book of Five Rings' and 'Ways of Warriors, Codes of Kings'
Translated by Thomas Cleary
'Thunder in the Sky': This book combines the clear-eyed political insight of Machiavelli with the profundity of the Taoist Master Lao Tzu.
'The Japanese Art of War': Here is an exploration of the influence of military rule and martial tradition of the samurai on Japanese life and culture. According to Cleary, the Japanese people have been so steeped in the way of the warrior that some of the manners and mentality of this outlook remain embedded in their individual and collective consciousness.
'The Book of Five Rings': This is one of the most insightful texts on the subtle arts of confrontation and victory to emerge from Asia. Composed in 1643 by the famed duelist and undefeated samurai Miyamoto Musashi.
'Ways of Warriors, Codes of Kings': Here is a concise and user-friendly presentation of selections from Taoist classics on strategy and leadership.