The 33 Strategies of War

I just finish the War book in Robert Greene's amoral series. This is one of those non-fiction books that starts great but becomes a bit of a drag to finish. That said, I would recommend it. History buffs and self-help freaks may find it intriguing.

Greene outlines 33 strategies of War, and then attempts to demonstrate how these are used in everyday life. Many of the strategies are polar opposites; like #4 Create a Sense of Urgency and Desperation and #11 Trade Space for Time. One strategy suggests a quick strike and the other recommends waiting.

I like the historical references. I was especially interested in tales of Alexander the Great and Napoleon, two of Greene's favorites. I also found the stories around the Austrian leader Klemens von Metternich fascinating; I was unfamiliar with Metternich prior to reading this book. Greene also uses several stories of Samurai warriors, another culture that I found intriguing.

Frankly, I found the self-help side of the book a little light. This is much more a history review than a treatise on how to beat your co-workers to a promotion.

Greene's amoral series includes to other volumes, The 48 Laws of Power, and The Art of Seduction. I should check out the latter book...I need lots of help there.