Originally published in Japanese in 1959, this classic novel by Yasushi Inoue takes place during the Japanese Warring Era (1467-1573)-a time when Japan was ruled by three young powerful warlords: Takeda Shingen, Iwagawa Yoshimoto, and Hojo Ujiyasu. The story focuses on Takeda Shingen and his one-eyed, crippled strategist, Yamamoto Kansuke. The brilliant strategies of Kansuke, inspired by his passion for war and his admiration for his enemies' war tactics, are beautifully expressed throughout this book.

Yasushi Inoue (1907-1991), is widely recognized as one of Japan's greatest modern novelists and was honored as a "Living National Treasure." He was the recipient of every major prize in Japanese literature.

Yoko Riley received her B.A. and M.A. from Seijo University in Tokyo, Japan and her B.L.S. from the University of Ottawa, Canada. She teaches at the University of Calgary, Alberta, where she lives with her husband.