How to start your Stoic journey

by Gregory Lopez
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5 books
People who want to start learning about Stoicism often turn to the ancient literature. While I think the ancient literature is a must-read, I also think it’s all too easy for beginners to misinterpret. That’s why I suggest most people start their Stoic journeys with modern overviews before turning to the ancients.
There is an embarrassment of riches when it comes to introductory books. They all have their strengths, depending on what you’re looking for. Below are five introductory books that tackle Stoicism from different perspectives. They’re all excellent, in my view, but some may be a better fit for you, depending on what you want to get out of Stoicism.
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The Practicing Stoic

Ward Farnsworth, 2018
This book is a good fit for those of you who are itching to get a taste of the ancient literature. Farnsworth gently guides the reader through Stoic philosophy by presenting relevant ancient snippets arranged by theme with solid, clear explanations.

Stoicism

John Sellars, 2006
The perfect fit if you’re interested in understanding the whole of ancient Stoic philosophy. While this book is academic, don’t let that scare you away; it’s very readable. If you’re looking for a book to give you the lay of the land of Stoic philosophy and history.

Stoicism and the Art of Happiness

Practical wisdom for everyday life: embrace perseverance, strength and happiness with stoic philosophy
Donald Robertson, 2018
If you are looking toward Stoicism as a way to help you navigate and manage your emotional life, this book is for you. It’s written by a cognitive-behavior therapist and has several practical exercises alongside an overview of Stoicism.

How to Be a Stoic

Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life
Massimo Pigliucci, 2017
This book is a great narrative introduction to Stoicism which touches on how the author attempts to practice Stoicism in the modern world. This book would be a good fit for you if you’re interested in learning how this ancient philosophy can be practiced in today’s society.

Being Better

Stoicism for a World Worth Living In
Kai Whiting, Leonidas Konstantakos, 2021
One of the most attractive things about Stoicism is that it encourages a socially engaged life. If you’re interested in Stoicism as a way to increase your resilience as you try to make the world a better place, this is the introduction for you. The authors rightly focus on Stoicism as a method for not just feeling better, but being better.