"The Game of Life and How to Play It" by Florence Scovel Shinn is a self-help book written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the principles of spiritual law and positive thinking, suggesting that life is not a battle but a game that can be successfully navigated by understanding and applying these laws. 

Shinn presents concepts such as the power of words, the importance of imagination, and the necessity of aligning one's thoughts and actions with a divine design for life. At the beginning of the text, she introduces the idea that life operates within a framework of giving and receiving, where one's thoughts, words, and beliefs directly shape their experiences. 

She explains various aspects of the mind, including the subconscious and superconscious, emphasizing that individuals can change their circumstances by altering their inner thoughts and beliefs. Through illustrative anecdotes, she demonstrates how fear, doubt, and negative thinking can manifest into real-life obstacles, while faith, love, and positive intent can lead to prosperity and success. This introductory portion sets the stage for deeper explorations of specific laws and affirmations that the author will discuss throughout the book.