The Game of Life and How to Play It is a 1925 self-help book by Florence Scovel Shinn that teaches metaphysical principles for achieving success and prosperity. The book argues that life is a "game" of giving and receiving, and that one's thoughts, words, and beliefs directly shape their reality. Shinn's work, which is a classic in the New Thought movement, emphasizes using positive thinking, faith, and imagination to overcome obstacles and manifest desired outcomes. Key concepts Life as a game: Shinn presents life not as a battle, but as a game governed by spiritual laws, where what you send out is what you receive back. Power of thought and word: The book stresses that your thoughts and words have creative power and can be used to manifest your desires. The "imaging faculty": Shinn explains that the imagination is a powerful tool that can be used to create your reality. She warns that a fearful or negative imagination can lead to negative outcomes. Giving and receiving: A central theme is that the universe operates on a principle of giving and receiving. If you give love, you will receive love; if you give criticism, you will receive criticism. The subconscious and superconscious mind: The book distinguishes between the conscious mind (which sees life as it appears) and the superconscious mind (the "God Mind" within, which holds the perfect pattern for your life).