From China:
* The Art of War by Sun Tzu: This is perhaps the most famous and influential military treatise in the world, written during the Warring States period in ancient China. It covers topics like strategy, deception, and leadership.
* The Thirty-Six Stratagems: A collection of Chinese military stratagems, often attributed to the period of the Three Kingdoms (220-280 AD), although its origins are debated.
* Wuzi by Wu Qi: A book written by a famous general and strategist of the Warring States period, focusing on tactics and military organization.
From Japan:
* The Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi: This is a famous work of Japanese swordsmanship and strategy, written by the legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi. It covers topics like strategy, philosophy, and the path to enlightenment.
Other possibilities:
* The Records of the Grand Historian by Sima Qian: This is a comprehensive historical work from the Han Dynasty in China, which includes detailed descriptions of military campaigns and strategies.
* The Spring and Autumn Annals: This is a chronicle of the state of Lu during the Spring and Autumn period in ancient China, written by Confucius, which includes descriptions of wars and political maneuvering.
To narrow down the book you're thinking of, could you recall any more details? For example:
* What time period was the book written in?
* What are some key topics covered in the book?
* Do you remember any specific quotes from the book?
With more information, we can try to identify the specific book you're looking for.