6+ Favorite Books on Stoicism (So Far!)

Here is a roundup of my favorite books on stoicism (so far!). I hope you find something interesting & a little different.

Letters from a Stoic by Seneca
$9.99

In Letters From A Stoic, Seneca shares heartfelt advice through letters to his friend Lucilius, focusing on living a disciplined, emotionally balanced life. I found his insights on contentment and the importance of inner strength super relatable, especially his thoughts on the fleeting nature of time and the value of friendship. The book's casual tone makes it feel personal, and it’s fascinating to connect with a Roman philosopher from centuries ago. However, some sections can feel a bit awkward due to the translation. Overall, it’s a solid read for anyone looking to embrace Stoic principles and find fulfillment.
Pros:
Timeless principles that resonate across history
Casual writing style makes it accessible
Invaluable guide for living a fulfilling life
Cons:
Parts can feel stilted and read like a translation
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

02/02/2026 04:01 pm GMT
Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday
$12.87

The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday is a daily devotional that breaks down the ancient philosophy of Stoicism into practical lessons. I found it well-paced and easy to digest, focusing on perception, action, and will. Each day offers a meditation from Stoic thinkers like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius, along with reflections and exercises to apply these ideas in real life. Honestly, I didn’t have many complaints; I’m a fan of Holiday’s work, and this book didn't disappoint. If you're curious about Stoicism, this is a great way to explore it day by day.
Pros:
Well-paced and practical content
Offers actionable insights on Stoicism
Includes reflections and exercises for daily practice
Cons:
Not a whole lot to dislike
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

02/02/2026 02:01 am GMT
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
$8.18

In Meditations, Marcus Aurelius shares his personal reflections as a Roman emperor, touching on themes like virtue, rationality, and the acceptance of life’s fleeting nature. I found this book to be a treasure trove of wisdom, showcasing how a two-thousand-year-old mindset can still resonate today. Aurelius emphasizes controlling our thoughts, accepting death, and understanding what’s beyond our influence. The intimate, diary-like style offers a rare glimpse into his mind, although it can be a bit challenging to read at times. Overall, I think this book is a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy presented in a relatable way.
Pros:
Offers deep insights into virtue, rationality, and emotions
Provides a unique perspective from a Roman emperor
Written in a reflective style that makes philosophy accessible
Cons:
Requires effort to read due to its personal and unpolished nature
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

02/02/2026 07:01 pm GMT
The Obstacle Is The Way by Ryan Holiday
$18.68

In The Obstacle Is The Way, Ryan Holiday taps into stoicism to show us how to turn challenges into chances for growth. He breaks it down into three key areas: Perception, Action, and Will. I love how the book reminds us that while we can't control when tough times hit, we can control our reactions. It's all about patience, courage, and creativity. The pacing is solid, and the practical advice really resonates with me. Honestly, I’m a fan of Holiday's work, and this one definitely lives up to my expectations.
Pros:
Provides a practical framework for turning obstacles into opportunities
Emphasizes personal control over responses to challenges
Well-paced and engaging writing style
Cons:
Not a whole lot to dislike
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

02/02/2026 07:05 am GMT
Discipline is Destiny by Ryan Holiday
$15.99

In Discipline is Destiny, Ryan Holiday explores the Stoic virtue of discipline, which he presents as essential for a fulfilling life. Initially skeptical about a whole book on this topic, I was pleasantly surprised by the engaging stories and practical insights that kept me hooked. Each chapter offers a fresh perspective on discipline, highlighting its nuances and the balance needed for true self-control. I particularly appreciated the author's honest reflections in the Afterword about his own struggles with discipline. Overall, I loved this book and plan to buy it for future re-reading—it's a worthwhile addition to anyone's library.
Pros:
Engaging stories that enhance understanding of discipline
Well-structured with short, impactful chapters
Addresses the nuances and balance of discipline
Cons:
Nothing - I plan to buy it and re-read it.
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

02/02/2026 12:02 pm GMT
Short Works by Epictetus
In Short Works by Epictetus, I found a fascinating mix of wisdom and eccentricity. The core idea is that we control our internal responses rather than external events, which is both smart and practical. I appreciated the punchy aphoristic style, making it easy to read, but Epictetus does have a tendency to ramble. While he offers valuable insights into Stoicism, the book's lack of structure can be distracting, and his outdated views on certain topics are off-putting. Overall, it's a worthwhile read for those interested in Stoicism, but I think Seneca or Marcus Aurelius would be better starting points.
Pros:
Short, punchy writing style makes it easy to read.
Epictetus's philosophy is interesting and useful.
The ebook is beautifully formatted and accessible.
Reading primary sources is refreshing and engaging.
Cons:
Some issues with structure and random communication style.
Contains outdated and distracting views on women and non-Greeks.
No other cons.
Get Free on Standard eBooks Read My Review
Discourses and Selected Writings (Penguin Classics)
$15.41

The Discourses by Epictetus offers a systematic introduction to Stoic philosophy through structured lectures, making it more accessible than the scattered wisdom found in Seneca or Marcus Aurelius. While Epictetus can be blunt and demanding in tone, his methodical teaching style provides essential reading for anyone wanting to understand Stoicism as a philosophy rather than just collecting inspirational quotes. Highly recommended for serious students.
Pros:
Most systematic and structured of the major Stoic texts
Highly readable lecture format with clear philosophical progression
Essential source material that grounds modern Stoic teachings
Cons:
Epictetus's personality can be harsh and unforgiving
Assumes some familiarity with Stoic concepts
Cultural context can be harder to parse than other classics
Buy Now

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Thank you!

02/02/2026 10:01 pm GMT