Recommended by Shu Yamaguchi, Maya Yamaguchi, and Atsushi Tamura! 'The Art of War' by Sun Tzu, the ultimate survival strategy relied upon by leaders worldwide for 2,500 years, now reimagined for modern life. Released as part of the 'Timeless Wisdom: Classical Insights to Open Your Life' series.

Discover21 Co., Ltd. (headquartered in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Naomi Taniguchi) published 'TIMELESS WISDOM: Classical Insights to Open Your Life – The Art of War' (by Sun Wu, edited by Jill Hesson, translated by Takashi Nagamori) on June 19, 2026.

Originally written 2,500 years ago by Sun Wu, a general from China’s Eastern Zhou dynasty, this new edition reinterprets 'The Art of War' with messages tailored for modern readers. With stylish design and a clear, one-topic-per-spread layout, this book makes it easy to learn strategies for living life at your own pace.

A 2,500-year-old strategy manual that still resonates today

Relationships, endless tasks, love, social media comparisons—modern life constantly shakes our sense of self and drains our energy.

Yet the wisdom of 'The Art of War' speaks directly to these very struggles. The essence of Sun Tzu’s strategy is not about overpowering others through force, but about the wisdom of 'how to move forward in life without fighting.' Progressing steadily without seeking recognition—this is the truly ideal way to live.

68 timeless phrases that equip the overworked with strategic tools

Phrases like 'Do not engage in battles you cannot win,' 'Be flexible like water, adapting to circumstances without clinging to form,' and 'Actions driven by emotion lead to the greatest failures'—each spread features Sun Tzu’s original words on the right and practical modern interpretations on the left. When you feel overwhelmed or stuck, a single passage can offer strategic guidance for living with resilience.

Endorsed by renowned figures across diverse fields. Cover illustration by Yu Mori.

Author Shu Yamaguchi, legal scholar Maya Yamaguchi, and entertainer Atsushi Tamura have all shared their endorsements for this book.

Shu Yamaguchi:

'Those who avoid conflict are the strongest. Sun Tzu’s 'Art of Life.''

Maya Yamaguchi:

'In an age flooded with emotional noise on social media, the wisdom passed down for over two millennia resonates deeply. It speaks of rigorous, dispassionate information analysis and bold decision-making when opportunities arise—timeless truths.'

Atsushi Tamura:

'Human relationships, work, life…

The wisdom to survive this uncertain world is right here.'

The cover illustration is an original artwork by popular illustrator Yu Mori, reimagining the world of 'The Art of War' with a modern aesthetic.

Recommended for:

Business professionals exhausted by workplace competition and interpersonal dynamics

Those interested in 'The Art of War' but who find traditional versions too difficult to read

Anyone seeking to avoid unnecessary exhaustion and focus energy on what truly matters

◎ Book Overview

【Table of Contents】

Chapter 1: What to Consider in Advance

Chapter 2: Waging War

Chapter 3: Strategic Attacks

Chapter 4: The Order of Battle

Chapter 5: The Momentum of the Army

Chapter 6: Emptiness and Strength

Chapter 7: Strategy in Engagement

Chapter 8: The Nine Changes

Chapter 9: Maneuvering Troops

Chapter 10: Terrain

Chapter 11: The Nine Grounds

Chapter 12: Fire Attacks

Chapter 13: The Use of Spies

【Author Information】

Sun Wu

A general, military strategist, and philosopher from China’s Eastern Zhou dynasty. His seminal work, 'The Art of War,' is recognized as the most influential strategy book in history. His insights on preparation, adaptability, and understanding both oneself and the opponent remain universally applicable, influencing leaders in business, politics, and personal development worldwide.

Editor: Jill Hesson

An author and career coach with over 20 years of experience writing and advising on personal growth, career development, mental health, and well-being. She has authored over 22 books, including titles on resilience, communication skills, and assertive self-expression.

Translator: Takashi Nagamori

A translator whose works include Johan Eklöf’s 'The Use of Darkness' (Ohta Publishing), Matthew Syed’s 'The Science of Winning: The Rules of Becoming Elite' (Discover21), and Susan Schneider’s 'When You and AI Merge' (Newton Press, co-translated with Toranosuke Koyama).

【Book Information】

Title: 'TIMELESS WISDOM: Classical Insights to Open Your Life – The Art of War'

Release Date: June 19, 2026

Publisher: Discover21

Format: Hardcover (softcover) / 200 pages

ISBN: 978-4799332917

【Where to Purchase】

<Paperback>

Amazon (Exclusive bonus: smartphone wallpaper)

https://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/4799332910/d21_rs_pr-22

Rakuten Books (Exclusive bonus: postcard)

https://hb.afl.rakuten.co.jp/hgc/34ae3b9f.60213531.34ae3ba0.3421f3bd/_RTLink78327?pc=http%3A%2F%2Fbooks.rakuten.co.jp%2Frdt%2Fitem%2F%3Fsid%3D213310%26sno%3DISBN%3A9784799332917&link_type=hybrid_url&ut=eyJwYWdlIjoidXJsIiwidHlwZSI6Imh5YnJpZF91cmwiLCJjb2wiOjF9

<E-books>

Kindle

https://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0H3KNWRPK/d21_rs_pr-22