“You have power over your mind — not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”
The origins of Stoicism can be traced back to ancient Greece in the third century BCE. Shaped by philosophers such as Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius, Stoicism teaches that the path to living a fulfilled life comes from virtue, mindfulness in the present, and an acceptance of the natural order, acknowledging that some things are sometimes out of our control. Long associated with images of bearded men carved in marble thinking profoundly, Stoicism’s popularity has grown hugely in recent times. Join us at What We Reading as we present the best books on Stoicism, including guides on the main beliefs and ideals, and explanations of why this ancient philosophy has gone viral in the modern world.
Meditations – Marcus Aurelius
One of the most influential and original historical works ever written, Meditations is an intimate view into the private thoughts of the world’s most powerful man, guiding himself on the roles, responsibilities, and obligations that accompany his position. Marcus Aurelius was Roman Emperor between 161 and 180 and remains one of the most influential stoic philosophers in history.
Throughout Meditations, Aurelius guides readers through the spiritual exercises he would perform every day. His musings and exercises help him face the challenges and issues with empathy, humility, patience and strength, helping this continue to stand as one of the most accessible practical philosophy books available.
How To Be A Stoic – Massimo Pigliucci
Looking to become a stoic, but unsure where to start? Massimo Pigliucci’s 2017 book, How to Be a Stoic, offers one of the most comprehensive introductions for anyone with an interest in this philosophical thinking.
With clear and concise language, How to Be a Stoic breaks down exactly what makes stoicism the school of thought, guiding readers through the key principles through fictionalized conversations with Epictetus, one of the most influential stoics in history. Pigliucci succeeds in bringing stoicism into the context of contemporary society, showcasing its applications for the problems we all face, resulting in a tremendously fascinating starting point for anyone stepping into stoicism for the first time.
Lessons In Stoicism – John Sellars
John Sellars offers readers one of the most uplifting books on stoicism and how it can be used for a more thoughtful life in his 2019 work, Lessons in Stoicism. A weaving together of ideals and lessons from the three great Roman stoic philosophers – Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius – the book celebrates their remarkable lives and demonstrates how their enduring ideals can be brought into our modern world.
Lessons in Stoicism is one of the best books for capturing how stoicism is a philosophy based on how to live. Sellars leans on these ancient philosophers and their lessons to demonstrate how they can be used to understand one’s place in the world, cope when things aren’t going well, manage emotions, and behave around others.
A Guide To The Good Life: The Ancient Art Of Stoic Joy – William B. Irvine
One of our biggest fears revolves around coming to the end of our lives and looking back at it as unfulfilled. Using psychological insights and practical techniques from stoic teachers, William B. Irvine teaches readers how they can combat chronic dissatisfaction and become more thoughtful observers of life.
A Guide to the Good Life has gone down as one of the best books on stoicism for anyone looking to obtain more tranquillity, celebrate the things they have, and stop worrying over the temptations they don’t. In addition to tapping into the lessons from great stoic thinkers, Irvine uses his own life experiences to pull together a complete roadmap that is as practical as it is profound.
The Little Book Of Stoicism: Timeless Wisdom To Gain Resilience, Confidence, And Calmness – Jonas Salzgeber
Renowned stoic author Jonas Salzgeber addresses how traditional schooling fails to teach many of us how to handle the complications and obstacles that life can throw at us in his 2019 book, The Little Book of Stoicism. In it, he argues that many of us are crying out for a philosophy that helps us find more joy, gain strength and courage, and overcome grief and loss.
This empowering and highly actionable stoic guidebook condenses all the best ways of handling these issues and living life to the maximum. The Little Book of Stoicism utilises timeless wisdom to help readers fashion together a calm and wise life in a world that feels increasingly chaotic.
How To Think Like A Roman Emperor: The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius – Donald Robertson
Cognitive psychotherapist Donald Robertson brings together the life and philosophies of Marcus Aurelius for one of the most compelling stoicism books, How to Think Like a Roman Emperor. Through the teachings of arguably its greatest proponent, readers gain an insight into the remarkable stories of Aurelius’ life, and how his legacy has continued to influence and inspire countless people for centuries.
Mapping Marcus Aurelius’ ascent as a noble in Hadrian’s court, some of the greatest philosophers in history took him under their wing, and he reigned as Emperor when the empire was at the height of its power. Robertson explores how Aurelius’ philosophical doctrines and therapeutic practices build emotional resilience and overcome adversity, whilst also explaining how readers can apply similar methods to their own lives.
The Obstacle Is The Way: The Timeless Art Of Turning Trials Into Triumph (The Way, The Enemy, and The Key #1) – Ryan Holiday
Nominated for Best Business Book in the Goodreads Choice Awards, Ryan Holiday’s The Obstacle is the Way teaches readers how to turn obstacles into opportunities. In it, he casts an eye on figures ranging from Ulysses S. Grant to Steve Jobs to demonstrate how these individuals turned impossible scenarios into huge triumphs.
Holiday argues that their success was not due to luck or exceptional gifts but, rather, to the timeless philosophical principles set in stone by one Roman emperor. In breaking down these principles, Holiday demonstrates how readers can also begin turning their adversity into an advantage.
Stoicism And The Art Of Happiness – Donald J. Robertson
Stoicism and the Art of Happiness is a 2013 self-help book from Donald J. Robertson. In it, he offers a guide on how to find a happier way of living by drawing on the teachings of the ancient Stoics, revealing truths and lessons that enhance well-being.
Being one of the best books on Stoicism for uncovering its core principles, Stoicism and the Art of Happiness showcases how Stoicism can revolutionise a reader’s life, helping them to cope with challenges, seize each day as it comes, and find mindfulness with every situation they bring.
Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).
