Confucius lived at a turbulent time in his country's history, during which China was wracked by warfare between rival feudal states. Against this backdrop he developed a system of social and political behaviour that he hoped could be used to create harmony and peace throughout the land. The teachings of Confucius attracted a large number of pupils, but were largely ignored by the rulers of China's various kingdoms. After his death, however, his teachings were kept alive by his followers, and within a few centuries, his philosophy was adopted by China's rulers and became the foundation for Chinese government, education and social structure. Meher McArthur's accessible and thoughtful biography not only traces the outline of her subject's life, but also examines why Confucius and his teachings are still relevant today.