The classification of unearthed bamboo slips requires an understanding of how the ancients perceived and categorized books. A more secure approach to classification synthesizes the categories found in “The Curriculum of Nine Courses for Princes of the Chu State,”Han Dynasty Book Records, and Sui Dynasty Book Records. While laws and decrees are often excluded from the category of “documents,” they should be considered a distinct form of literature and included under the broader umbrella of books. This approach is particularly useful for investigating the types of literature available during the Warring States period, as it helps us address gaps in historical materials, especially in regions with limited resources. Exploring these categories not only sheds light on the types of texts people read during this period but also provides insight into how different schools of thought emerged and developed. By analyzing contemporaneous texts and those closely aligned with the intellectual currents of the time, we can better understand the historical context of these philosophical traditions.