The Little Book of Stoic Quotes: Philosophy for a Meaningful and Courageous Life

by Phil Van Treuren

“A beautiful collection of Stoic meditations that unveils a simple and elegant philosophy of life.” — Michael McGill, The Stay Stoic Newsletter

Stoicism is a simple, practical philosophy that teaches us to live joyfully, focus on the present moment, and accept things we can’t control. All human beings are born with beautiful minds, and the ancient Stoics left us a blueprint for using them the right way.


The Little Book of Stoic Quotes features beautiful illustrations and commentary on the insights of Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, Seneca and more. It’s a unique showcase of timeless wisdom that invites us to embrace what we’ve been given . . . and become re-enchanted with life.

This delightful book from author Phil Van Treuren blends easy-to-read illuminations with splendid original artwork. Perfect for a quick read during peaceful moments, The Little Book of Stoic Quotes can act as either an engaging introduction to Stoicism or a fun refresher.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Self Help, Psychology

84 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 2, 2024

About the author

Phil Van Treuren (pronounced 𝘝𝘢𝘯 𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘰-𝘪𝘯) is an author, entrepreneur, and perpetual work in progress. He grew up in the rural mining town of Round Mountain, Nevada and is a graduate of Southern Utah University.

Phil’s first book, 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘵𝘰𝘤𝘬 𝘏𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘊𝘢𝘵, was published by Stoic Simple Press in 2022. Its followup, 𝘈 𝘋𝘰𝘨 𝘞𝘩𝘰 𝘍𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘴 𝘎𝘭𝘢𝘥𝘭𝘺, was published in Spring of 2023.

Phil’s additional work includes 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘜𝘳𝘣𝘢𝘯 𝘌𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘯, The Little Book of Stoic Quotes and 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 (slated for publication in 2025). He lives outside of Cleveland, Ohio with his wife and children.

Reviews

[Larry (LPosse1) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book of Stoic Quotes and Parables. Van Treuren’s book is a collection of Stoic wisdom with lovely illustrations that includes all the Stoic All-Stars: Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius and Zeno!!!! What separates this books from others in the genre Van Treuren’s beautifully written parables and illustrations.
This little volume is great starting point for folks wanting to discover what Stoicism is all about. Or if you are like me, and have been studying the Stoics for a while, you can still take something from it. At works on a lot of levels. A sweet daily study!

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful little intro to stoic philosophy. This may start a trend of philosophical readings. Nice short bites that evoke thought.

[Susie Leuthold · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the easy to read one page stories about becoming a stoic and living my life simply.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not one to overly think the universe sends signs but I honestly feel it did with this book. I won a copy of this amazing book through the Goodreads giveaways at a time in my life when I have seriously been struggling with stress and worry. Reading this book has very much altered the way I think about the things I used to consider big stressors. I will continue to reflect back when things get hard to help my mindset.
It is well thought out and well written. Highly recommend if you also struggle with worrying about things you just cannot change.

[Laura Steuk-Mastropaolo · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many wise words!

[Miguel Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short, insightful and easy to read.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent little book, for kids or adults. Could make a good gift.

[Martin Herrmann · Rating 4 out of 5]

“If you think you need a witness to your virtue, then be your own.” — Epictetus

We don’t meditate on the mortality of loved ones to be macabre or to make ourselves sad. Instead, it should serve to remind us that every moment we spend with someone could also be our last moment with them. Appreciate the time you get with your loved ones today, when you have the chance to. Embrace them now. Laugh with them now. Tell them you love them now.

You’ve already lost the past, and the future isn’t guaranteed. So focus on the present and embrace what’s happening right in front of you in this moment.

This short book was packed with insightful quotes and philosophical insights on living your best life. It is a short and easy read, but something that will stay with you for a long time. And hopefully have you going back to again and again.

[Jessie Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Won this great little pocket read on Goodreads Giveaways, by the Author Phil Van Treuren and read it in just under 1 hour. I thing this book should be added in High School Classrooms as part of there curriculum in must reads books. It's similar to Who Moved My Cheese by: Dr Spencer Johnson.... Thank you Goodreads for this amazing win,and that to this Author Phil Van Treuren, your personal hand written note was a great touch, I will keep this gem.

[Phyll · Rating 5 out of 5]

FANTASTIC LITTLE BOOK OF STOIC QUOTES! ! ! One of the best reads I've ever experienced. In less than 75 pages, no less! So enjoyable and easy to read. I couldn't put it down and found myself nodding and talking out loud TO THE BOOK! Yes, "right on," "you got that right," "I totally agree," "wow, that's profound," "you know me (and the Human race) so well," "incredible," "amazing," "I think I'll read you all over again----and again---and again!"

My favorite chapter (or stoic quote) was on pages 41 and 42, entitled, "Change Is The Nature of the World, So Embrace It" Indeed! Especially now, in 2024, right before the presidential election and all the mess with D.T. and how divided our country is and black-and-white thinking and much more.

We need this book now more than ever! And Phil Van Treuren was the man to write and give it to us. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND you get a copy (today) and read it straight through, as I did this afternoon. I intend to get at least a dozen more and gift them to friends and relatives. It's a timeless book with hundreds of timeless messages that can make you happier, healthier & saner.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much for sending The Little Book of Stoic Quotes. I can honestly say that I found it illuminating. It will change my life and has already started to.
I Have been dwelling on the past and worrying about the future to the extent that I have been anxious and depressed! Your book has enlightened me overnight, literally.
This last week has been just amazing, trying to live for the present and practice some of the lessons. Quite astounding really.
I just wish I had encountered Stoic Philosophy earlier in my life. However, your book has set me on a journey to learn and practice more of the philosophy and set me on a path for a more meaningful life.
Thank you Phil Van Treuren

[Bill And · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truely a great little book of stoic quotes. Each quote is followed by a short story and explanation that provoke thoughts on the true meaning of life and happiness. It's the perfect book to read a quote or two a day, like a daily devotional but with Stoicism quotes. I'm new to the philosophy of stoicism and continue to learn from each book by Phil Van Treuren. I really enjoyed the Stock Horse and the Stable Cat along with The Dog That Followed Gladly. Both were the perfect gift books for our grown children to read to their children to induce conversation. Looking forward to learning more about Stoicism.

[Uttiya Hazra · Rating 5 out of 5]

After having read the holy Trio of Stoicism (Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, Letters from A Stoic by Seneca, The Teachings of a Stoic by Epictetus) I came to know about this fantastic book, which as per my opinion an impeccable epitomization of central teachings of Stoicism with coherent analogies of eventualities from our daily lives, in which someone can seek refuge as many times as it takes, until the intended mental maneuvering is attained to embody the stoic principles to someone's best capability.

[Štěpán Krejčí · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book from the author who write about Stoic philosophy in a modern way. Like his previous books, he shows, that stoicsm is philosophy for every day, every ocassion and every burden we might carry. In the beginnig author cleary explains the basics. Then he focus in every chapter on different situation or problem we might encounter and shows us how would stoic philosopher solved it, or even better how to aproach it and solved it by ourselfs. Book comes in size just big enough to easily read and also carry in your bag :-) .

[Ryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Phil Van Treuren gives very common sensical takes on the philosophy of Stoicism in this book through reviewing quotes from the Stoics (and some from Viktor Frankl).

This is a good book for people who have an interest in reading quotes from Stoicism but aren’t concerned with the technicalities of the philosophy. I would give this to a friend or family member who might benefit from a light hearted venture into philosophy. I would suggest reading this as the author’s opinions on the quotes offered, not as a philosophical book accurately explaining the nuances of Stoicism.

[Liz Magill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book grabs your attention from the get go. I love the flow of it. I was nodding my head in agreement throughout my read.
I will definitely loan out my book, but I’ll make sure it gets returned to my personal library every time.
I enjoy reading informative, riveting books, which this book definitely is.
Thank you Phil for your generosity. I will never forget it. It is a pleasure to endorse your book. You are an excellent
writer.

Many thanks,
Liz from Canada 🇨🇦

[Ronnie Villarini · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am just a little over halfway through this at the time of writing, as I'm taking it in a little at a time as part of a wind-down routine.

With that said, this book is great. I honestly was expecting just a book of quotes, but accompanying those quotes are insights and thought-provoking commentary on how the quote can be interpreted and applied to your life.

Wonderful addition to my stoic collection.

[Robert Slaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely assemblage of quotes, and Van Treuren’s additional context to make the quote even more meaningful. Combined with his original enchanting artwork the book provides a visual focus for the message of each quote.

Keeping this on my shelf next to Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations for those moments where a little insight is needed.

This slim volume fits nicely into travel satchel, ready to be a wise friend when I travel.

[Crimson Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so happy to add this book to the library of a young family in our neighborhood as a companion volume to The Stock Horse and the Stable Car/A Dog Who Follows Gladly! Their children range from 12 years to 5 months old so there now is truly something for everyone (to include the very busy parents)!

This little book of quotes and the accompanying commentary is super accessible and a perfect bedside addition!

Thank you for sharing this wonderful insight at a very pivotal time!

[Cheryl Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great introduction to stoicism. The quotes and their explanations were wonderful, and the illustrations go well with the particular idea they support. As I read the book, I found I already live by several of the tenets of stoicism. Can one be a Christian stoic? I have one more book by Mr. Treuren to read: The Dog Who Followed Gladly. I look forward to reading it. These would be good books for tweenagers and up as they begin to navigate the world.

[Karen Demyanovich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like this book. If only I could practice this philosophy, life would certainly be “more meaningful and courageous.” I recommend this book for all who want to strive for a positive attitude and face the challenges of life. The author did all the work and now the reader has all the information to achieve a better life.

[Mjverostko · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book! Thought provoking quotes with insightful commentary and a few parables from the author. Short chapters, perfect for morning inspiration or to wrap up your day. Bought a few more copies to hand out to my clients.
As the subtitle says, this is a little book “…for a meaningful and courageous life.”

[Melissa Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice introduction into Stoicism. Each quote is followed by a short explanation and sometimes a fable - presented in bite-size pieces. Each segment is thought-provoking and not overwhelming. I personally have been going through a stressful period with my career. This was a nice reminder to control the way I think.

[Ronald Pettie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ah...a wonderful thought provoking book. Each chapter-segment is opened by a quote...and then expounded on by the writer. This volume is never 'preachy' - but stimulating. Personally, I love 'good quotes' and this book is chock full of Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, Victor Frankl and Seneca. Like Phil Van Treuren's other books ...take your time and take them in...absorb.

[Hari · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Beatles were right - love is all we need.

Sometimes when that feels like it is in short supply, a few wonderful stories of how to accept and adapt and make sense of the world give much needed hope to keep us going.

Thank you for this lovely little book Phil, such a wonderful gift to readers all over.

[E. Zane Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy read

I like the simple messages and stories. I missed and allusion to Stoic physics, which I highly endorse, in this book. In my opinion, it is Stoic physics that underpinned the why these things *work* in real life experiences. Otherwise, it's a good primer for beginners for practical adice and thought-provoking.

[Amelia Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this! While I consider myself to be more whimsical, I found myself nodding to the ideals. I specifically liked the parts that challenge the reader to change the frame of thought, and what things are actually in our control. The illustrations at the start of each chapter are darling!🥺

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Best read after having already been introduced to stoicism. It's actually a good summary of some of the lessons from Jonas Salzgeber's book, The Little Book of Stoicism. I don't know if there is a connection, but there certainly are unmistakable similarities. I'm glad I read Salzgeber's book first; this was a good follow up.

[Shauna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little book is full of tips on how to live a happy and fulfilled life. The examples are interesting and relevant. I highly recommend this quick read that will give you new thoughts to move forward in your life with more enthusiasm and peace.

[Mason Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great little intro to stoic thought. The book is filled with quotes and explanations of each quote. I have been reading these to my kids, in conjunction with the authors other books. Another great way to introduce stoic philosophy to children. We need more authors like this.