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The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom: Learn the Art of Living Well with Classical Philosophy
Learn how to thrive in the modern world by unlocking the ancient art of Stoicism. This practical and accessible guide will show you how to cultivate wisdom and cope with life’s everyday challenges.
The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom is a classical primer for anyone wanting to understand true Stoicism. Although we’re living in drastically different times to the ancients, many of the lessons of Seneca, Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius still stand today.
The millennia-old mindset will show you how to learn the Stoic art of mindful acceptance, foster calmness and reach your full potential. Featuring a breakdown of the central pillars of Stoic philosophy alongside practical everyday examples, this essential book will help you sharpen your focus, build your self-discipline and banish negative thinking.
A Stoic life well lived is one that has been adopted by some of the most successful business leaders, from Steve Jobs to Bill Gates, as well high-performing sportspeople such as Rory McIlroy, and historic figures such as George Washington, Theodore Roosevelt, and Thomas Jefferson, among others. The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom will show you what it truly means to live Stoically and reach your goals.
The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom is a classical primer for anyone wanting to understand true Stoicism. Although we’re living in drastically different times to the ancients, many of the lessons of Seneca, Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius still stand today.
The millennia-old mindset will show you how to learn the Stoic art of mindful acceptance, foster calmness and reach your full potential. Featuring a breakdown of the central pillars of Stoic philosophy alongside practical everyday examples, this essential book will help you sharpen your focus, build your self-discipline and banish negative thinking.
A Stoic life well lived is one that has been adopted by some of the most successful business leaders, from Steve Jobs to Bill Gates, as well high-performing sportspeople such as Rory McIlroy, and historic figures such as George Washington, Theodore Roosevelt, and Thomas Jefferson, among others. The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom will show you what it truly means to live Stoically and reach your goals.
- GenresPhilosophyAudiobook
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2025
7 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
September 12, 2025
the little book of Stoic wisdom by Joseph Piercy review
nonfiction philosophy
thank you NetGalley and Tantor Media for giving me an audio ARC in exchange for a review.
the title is very clear on what a reader might expect in its contents. It is a little book and it covers the true core of stoicism. This book is structured very logically, following a chronological retelling of stoic history and sharing its wonderous high within Greece and ancient roman philosophy. Piercy, a knowledgeable UK philosopher, then goes on with making his own translation of what a stoic lifestyle could mean in this day and age and what it would definitely not mean. I could agree with most of his point, however, as a fellow philosopher, I also remain critical at points. I would argue that the list Piercy shares at the last bit of the book could be risky, as readers can still cherry-pick their new habits and discard others as something that isn’t as valuable to them in their current lifestyle, even if Piercy connects them all.
Overall, I think this book is perfect for those who want to learn what stoicism is, as Piercy conveys this information to readers in bitesize pieces and accessible language. However, by making this translation into easy to understand information Piercy still manages to convey the nuances of stoicism; something other more mainstream (and definitely non-philosophers) cannot seem to achieve. Piercy also is open about his sources, which are all very credible, so I can guarantee the reader that the information in this book is all accurate.
Also, the audiobook was an absolutely enjoyable experience, as the narrator had an excellent voice who could convey the information with such clarity. It was an amazing choice to go with him for this book. The calmness and clarity added much to the experience!
If you were ever curious about philosophy and wanted a good introduction into stoicism, definitely try to pick up this book (I recommend the audiobook)!
nonfiction philosophy
thank you NetGalley and Tantor Media for giving me an audio ARC in exchange for a review.
the title is very clear on what a reader might expect in its contents. It is a little book and it covers the true core of stoicism. This book is structured very logically, following a chronological retelling of stoic history and sharing its wonderous high within Greece and ancient roman philosophy. Piercy, a knowledgeable UK philosopher, then goes on with making his own translation of what a stoic lifestyle could mean in this day and age and what it would definitely not mean. I could agree with most of his point, however, as a fellow philosopher, I also remain critical at points. I would argue that the list Piercy shares at the last bit of the book could be risky, as readers can still cherry-pick their new habits and discard others as something that isn’t as valuable to them in their current lifestyle, even if Piercy connects them all.
Overall, I think this book is perfect for those who want to learn what stoicism is, as Piercy conveys this information to readers in bitesize pieces and accessible language. However, by making this translation into easy to understand information Piercy still manages to convey the nuances of stoicism; something other more mainstream (and definitely non-philosophers) cannot seem to achieve. Piercy also is open about his sources, which are all very credible, so I can guarantee the reader that the information in this book is all accurate.
Also, the audiobook was an absolutely enjoyable experience, as the narrator had an excellent voice who could convey the information with such clarity. It was an amazing choice to go with him for this book. The calmness and clarity added much to the experience!
If you were ever curious about philosophy and wanted a good introduction into stoicism, definitely try to pick up this book (I recommend the audiobook)!
December 30, 2025
Bridging Ancient Wisdom and Modern Life: The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom by Joseph Piercy, Narrated by Michael Page
Review by Charles Francis
Advanced audiobook copy provided by NetGalley and Tantor Media | Tantor Audio
Estimated Read Time: ~4 minutes
(5 out of 5 stars)
I'd like to begin with my gratitude to NetGalley and Tantor Media | Tantor Audio for providing an advance copy of the audiobook. Piercy's book is another in a collection of books that I am reading as I continue my Stoic journey—tracing from the greats like Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius and Seneca through contemporary guides like Ryan Holiday, Massimo Pigliucci, Donald Robertson, Eric Cloward, and Jonas Salzgeber—I found that The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom stands out as both a true beginner's manual and a timely refresher for seasoned practitioners.
Joseph Piercy delivers a classical primer on what Stoicism really is—with simplicity and immediacy that cuts through centuries of misunderstanding. Piercy is a freelance writer who holds a Master of Philosophy degree in English Studies and studied Russian Literature and Creative Writing at university. A regular contributor to various magazines and journals, he has authored numerous books on subjects ranging from English language and literature to history and popular philosophy, including The Story of English, Life Lessons from Literature, The 25 Rules of Grammar, and 1000 Words You Should Know. His versatility as a writer shows in how he makes Stoicism accessible without diluting its power. At its heart, Stoicism is a practical philosophy that values actions and deeds over theoretical contemplation. Although thinking things through before acting is paradoxically part of the process, this is a "can do" philosophy rather than a "why can't I do" approach to life. Piercy makes this distinction clear from the opening pages.
The core insight Piercy articulates—and that the ancient Stoics understood profoundly—is that it isn't things themselves (whether people, situations, or circumstances) that cause our distress. It's how we view them, our judgments about them. In this sense, it's all in the mind. If we can train ourselves to make better judgments, we can eliminate much of the pain, hurt, and anxiety that beleaguer us. Piercy makes it clear that Stoicism is not about hocus pocus mind games; rather, Stoicism seeks to show you how one can control negative emotions such as fear, anger, or jealousy not only because they are based on flawed judgment but also because they do not help one live a stress-free life—and they often lead to bad outcomes and strife.
One of the key points that Piercy excels at getting across is what the Stoics called "externals"—circumstances or things commonly considered good in themselves or as necessary prerequisites to living a happy life: money, good health, social status, material possessions, and so on. These are externals, things really outside our true control. Sure, we all would like to live in a nice house and not worry about paying bills; however, these external things do not in themselves guarantee happiness, contentment, and a joyful life. Piercy makes it clear that the Stoics understood that all we have control over is our thoughts and character. A mind that functions according to reason and a virtuous character are all that are needed to live a good life—to live, as the Stoics say, as the best version of ourselves.
Piercy translates these ancient maxims into everyday language and real-world examples. Drawing from the core Stoics—Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius—he shows how their disciplines of judgment, emotion, nature, and community apply in modern life. What's particularly impressive is how Piercy brings in a variety of figures across eras: business leaders and founders like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, athletes like Rory McIlroy, and historical leaders such as Theodore Roosevelt. He notes that while figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson may have studied Stoic concepts, their lives also reveal the tension between philosophy and imperfect practice—for example, as slave owners. This honest caveat adds integrity rather than detracting from the message.
Piercy further identifies contemporary figures—including Elon Musk—who at one point adopted Stoic habits but have since drifted. He uses this not as criticism but as a lesson: the discipline of Stoicism requires consistency, not headlines. One memorable tactic he offers is the "gap" strategy: stop—strip away the immediate reaction—see what is truly within your control before responding. It's a reminder that the Stoic path isn't passive; it is deliberate, intentional work.
Michael Page's narration elevates the work considerably. Page, who has recorded nearly 500 audiobooks since the mid-1980s and won two Audie Awards and several AudioFile Earphones Awards, brings a warmth and clarity to the text that draws you into the Stoic world. His voice transforms philosophical concepts into lived moments. I found myself listening at every moment I could - in the car, walking between meetings, doing yard work, and his tone made the philosophy feel deeply personal and immediately usable. For anyone experiencing Stoicism through audio, Page's performance is masterful.
This book matters because it closes the gap between reading Stoicism and living it. It doesn't assume previous knowledge, yet it offers enough depth to satisfy practitioners who are always on the hunt for foundational texts to help in our Stoic journey. Piercy understands that "the art of living well" isn't reserved for philosophers in togas—it's for all of us navigating the complexities of modern existence. His accessible style, combined with rigorous attention to the source material, makes this an essential addition to any Stoic library.
For anyone curious about Stoicism—or anyone seeking a practical guide to living well with greater equanimity, resilience, and wisdom—The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom is both accessible and profound. It demonstrates how Stoic principles survive and thrive across millennia, remaining as relevant in our anxious, hyperconnected age as they were in ancient Rome.
Final thought: If you've ever thought Stoicism was only for the distant past, this book shows how its principles not only survive but flourish in contemporary life. It remains a guide worth returning to. I will certainly listen to it again annually, just as I do reading Ryan Holiday's The Daily Stoic. Highly recommended for your shelf, your commute, and your internal dialogue.
This review is based on an advanced audiobook copy provided by NetGalley and Tantor Media | Tantor Audio. The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom was published by Michael O'Mara Books in February 2025. Audiobook published September 2025.
This is a review of the audiobook.
Review by Charles Francis
Advanced audiobook copy provided by NetGalley and Tantor Media | Tantor Audio
Estimated Read Time: ~4 minutes
(5 out of 5 stars)
I'd like to begin with my gratitude to NetGalley and Tantor Media | Tantor Audio for providing an advance copy of the audiobook. Piercy's book is another in a collection of books that I am reading as I continue my Stoic journey—tracing from the greats like Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius and Seneca through contemporary guides like Ryan Holiday, Massimo Pigliucci, Donald Robertson, Eric Cloward, and Jonas Salzgeber—I found that The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom stands out as both a true beginner's manual and a timely refresher for seasoned practitioners.
Joseph Piercy delivers a classical primer on what Stoicism really is—with simplicity and immediacy that cuts through centuries of misunderstanding. Piercy is a freelance writer who holds a Master of Philosophy degree in English Studies and studied Russian Literature and Creative Writing at university. A regular contributor to various magazines and journals, he has authored numerous books on subjects ranging from English language and literature to history and popular philosophy, including The Story of English, Life Lessons from Literature, The 25 Rules of Grammar, and 1000 Words You Should Know. His versatility as a writer shows in how he makes Stoicism accessible without diluting its power. At its heart, Stoicism is a practical philosophy that values actions and deeds over theoretical contemplation. Although thinking things through before acting is paradoxically part of the process, this is a "can do" philosophy rather than a "why can't I do" approach to life. Piercy makes this distinction clear from the opening pages.
The core insight Piercy articulates—and that the ancient Stoics understood profoundly—is that it isn't things themselves (whether people, situations, or circumstances) that cause our distress. It's how we view them, our judgments about them. In this sense, it's all in the mind. If we can train ourselves to make better judgments, we can eliminate much of the pain, hurt, and anxiety that beleaguer us. Piercy makes it clear that Stoicism is not about hocus pocus mind games; rather, Stoicism seeks to show you how one can control negative emotions such as fear, anger, or jealousy not only because they are based on flawed judgment but also because they do not help one live a stress-free life—and they often lead to bad outcomes and strife.
One of the key points that Piercy excels at getting across is what the Stoics called "externals"—circumstances or things commonly considered good in themselves or as necessary prerequisites to living a happy life: money, good health, social status, material possessions, and so on. These are externals, things really outside our true control. Sure, we all would like to live in a nice house and not worry about paying bills; however, these external things do not in themselves guarantee happiness, contentment, and a joyful life. Piercy makes it clear that the Stoics understood that all we have control over is our thoughts and character. A mind that functions according to reason and a virtuous character are all that are needed to live a good life—to live, as the Stoics say, as the best version of ourselves.
Piercy translates these ancient maxims into everyday language and real-world examples. Drawing from the core Stoics—Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius—he shows how their disciplines of judgment, emotion, nature, and community apply in modern life. What's particularly impressive is how Piercy brings in a variety of figures across eras: business leaders and founders like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, athletes like Rory McIlroy, and historical leaders such as Theodore Roosevelt. He notes that while figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson may have studied Stoic concepts, their lives also reveal the tension between philosophy and imperfect practice—for example, as slave owners. This honest caveat adds integrity rather than detracting from the message.
Piercy further identifies contemporary figures—including Elon Musk—who at one point adopted Stoic habits but have since drifted. He uses this not as criticism but as a lesson: the discipline of Stoicism requires consistency, not headlines. One memorable tactic he offers is the "gap" strategy: stop—strip away the immediate reaction—see what is truly within your control before responding. It's a reminder that the Stoic path isn't passive; it is deliberate, intentional work.
Michael Page's narration elevates the work considerably. Page, who has recorded nearly 500 audiobooks since the mid-1980s and won two Audie Awards and several AudioFile Earphones Awards, brings a warmth and clarity to the text that draws you into the Stoic world. His voice transforms philosophical concepts into lived moments. I found myself listening at every moment I could - in the car, walking between meetings, doing yard work, and his tone made the philosophy feel deeply personal and immediately usable. For anyone experiencing Stoicism through audio, Page's performance is masterful.
This book matters because it closes the gap between reading Stoicism and living it. It doesn't assume previous knowledge, yet it offers enough depth to satisfy practitioners who are always on the hunt for foundational texts to help in our Stoic journey. Piercy understands that "the art of living well" isn't reserved for philosophers in togas—it's for all of us navigating the complexities of modern existence. His accessible style, combined with rigorous attention to the source material, makes this an essential addition to any Stoic library.
For anyone curious about Stoicism—or anyone seeking a practical guide to living well with greater equanimity, resilience, and wisdom—The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom is both accessible and profound. It demonstrates how Stoic principles survive and thrive across millennia, remaining as relevant in our anxious, hyperconnected age as they were in ancient Rome.
Final thought: If you've ever thought Stoicism was only for the distant past, this book shows how its principles not only survive but flourish in contemporary life. It remains a guide worth returning to. I will certainly listen to it again annually, just as I do reading Ryan Holiday's The Daily Stoic. Highly recommended for your shelf, your commute, and your internal dialogue.
This review is based on an advanced audiobook copy provided by NetGalley and Tantor Media | Tantor Audio. The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom was published by Michael O'Mara Books in February 2025. Audiobook published September 2025.
This is a review of the audiobook.
September 5, 2025
This book had big shoes to fill. The concept- a mini guide to thriving in the modern world using historical concepts- intrigued me. The cover was elegant, the summary exciting, and the narrator has an amazing voice.
Unfortunately, I didn't feel like the experience really came together. The first half of the book is spent recounting the historical background behind stoicism and the main actors. I got lost in the weeds of such a condensed historical recounting of an entire era-- it was similar to "Lives of the Stoics" by Ryan Holiday with little side quests of fun stories sprinkled in. But unlike "Lives of the Stoics," I wasn't mentally prepared for the historical content or for the pacing.
By the time I finally reengaged with the text, there were only a handful of chapters remaining. To be fair these delivered on the initial promise of advice for the modern life, but it left me wanting so much more from this book.
This is one of the few times were I think the book might be fully appreciated as written word, instead of an audiobook-- simply to allow the readers to come back time and again for small chunks of pick-me-up wisdom.
Thank you NetGalley and Tantor Media for providing this ARC-audiobook. All opinions, as always, are my own.
As mentioned above: Lives of the Stoics: The Art of Living from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius
Unfortunately, I didn't feel like the experience really came together. The first half of the book is spent recounting the historical background behind stoicism and the main actors. I got lost in the weeds of such a condensed historical recounting of an entire era-- it was similar to "Lives of the Stoics" by Ryan Holiday with little side quests of fun stories sprinkled in. But unlike "Lives of the Stoics," I wasn't mentally prepared for the historical content or for the pacing.
By the time I finally reengaged with the text, there were only a handful of chapters remaining. To be fair these delivered on the initial promise of advice for the modern life, but it left me wanting so much more from this book.
This is one of the few times were I think the book might be fully appreciated as written word, instead of an audiobook-- simply to allow the readers to come back time and again for small chunks of pick-me-up wisdom.
Thank you NetGalley and Tantor Media for providing this ARC-audiobook. All opinions, as always, are my own.
As mentioned above: Lives of the Stoics: The Art of Living from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius
September 15, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This was a nice introduction into Stoicism for beginners. Joseph Piercy deep dives into the history and pioneers of Stoicism while adding personal touches and interpretations, which contributes to easy reading and comprehension.
While it’s appreciated that Piercy took this route, I struggled with the pacing being a “non-beginner” of Stoicism. Towards the last few chapters, the history lessons ceased, and I was reengaged and enlightened by the new information and ways to implement Stoicism into my daily life.
I wouldn’t recommend it if you’re an advanced practitioner of Stoicism. But if you’re looking for a great introduction or need a refresher into Stoicism, then I would 100% recommend it. Especially the audiobook! It’s a nice morning drive to work listening. Michael Page’s narration was captivating and great. His voice was elegant and enhanced the teaching perfectly. He did a 5⭐️ performance.
Thank you, Tantor Audio & NetGalley for my advance audiobook copy. All opinions are my own.
This was a nice introduction into Stoicism for beginners. Joseph Piercy deep dives into the history and pioneers of Stoicism while adding personal touches and interpretations, which contributes to easy reading and comprehension.
While it’s appreciated that Piercy took this route, I struggled with the pacing being a “non-beginner” of Stoicism. Towards the last few chapters, the history lessons ceased, and I was reengaged and enlightened by the new information and ways to implement Stoicism into my daily life.
I wouldn’t recommend it if you’re an advanced practitioner of Stoicism. But if you’re looking for a great introduction or need a refresher into Stoicism, then I would 100% recommend it. Especially the audiobook! It’s a nice morning drive to work listening. Michael Page’s narration was captivating and great. His voice was elegant and enhanced the teaching perfectly. He did a 5⭐️ performance.
Thank you, Tantor Audio & NetGalley for my advance audiobook copy. All opinions are my own.
October 13, 2025
As someone who's read quite a bit of Stoic philosophy and related material, I went into The Little Book of Stoic Wisdom expecting some familiar ideas, and that's perfectly fine. I often enjoy revisiting the fundamentals when they're presented with fresh insight or clarity. Unfortunately, this one ended up being a DNF for me.
The main issue wasn't so much the content itself, which is fine as an introductory overview, but the narration. The tone came across as oddly condescending, which made it difficult to stay engaged with the material. What could have been a solid, accessible guide to Stoicism instead felt patronizing at times.
I listened to a good portion of the audiobook, hoping it might improve or that I'd acclimate to the delivery, but eventually realized it just wasn't for me. If you're completely new to Stoicism, you might still find value in the content, but I'd personally recommend reading a physical copy or looking for other narrations of similar material.
The main issue wasn't so much the content itself, which is fine as an introductory overview, but the narration. The tone came across as oddly condescending, which made it difficult to stay engaged with the material. What could have been a solid, accessible guide to Stoicism instead felt patronizing at times.
I listened to a good portion of the audiobook, hoping it might improve or that I'd acclimate to the delivery, but eventually realized it just wasn't for me. If you're completely new to Stoicism, you might still find value in the content, but I'd personally recommend reading a physical copy or looking for other narrations of similar material.
September 29, 2025
ARC REVIEW:
This book dives into living a stoic life and has some philosophical background with examples while Learn to thrive and guide you through life’s challenges.
Take aways from points that really stuck with me:
-Need to do more meditations.
-Knowing your self and focusing on how we react
-Being aware and realizing what we can and can’t control.
-Working towards our potential best self.
-Goal of living our happiest virtuous lives.
-Taking responsibility for our actions.
-Worrying isn’t beneficial: How often does the unexpected come to pass
-Focus on seeing things for how they are.
Applying the method to everyday life:
“Stop, Strip & See”
This book dives into living a stoic life and has some philosophical background with examples while Learn to thrive and guide you through life’s challenges.
Take aways from points that really stuck with me:
-Need to do more meditations.
-Knowing your self and focusing on how we react
-Being aware and realizing what we can and can’t control.
-Working towards our potential best self.
-Goal of living our happiest virtuous lives.
-Taking responsibility for our actions.
-Worrying isn’t beneficial: How often does the unexpected come to pass
-Focus on seeing things for how they are.
Applying the method to everyday life:
“Stop, Strip & See”
netgalley-read
September 12, 2025Thanks to Tantor Media | Tantor Audio, the author and NetGalley for a LRC in return for an honest review
I expected to enjoy this book but unfortunately the writing was incredibly dry. I started to lose interest as the book progressed and the only reason I didn't DNF is because the audiobook is only 2 hours and 41 minutes long.
In short, not for me.
#TheLittleBookofStoicWisdom #NetGalley
I expected to enjoy this book but unfortunately the writing was incredibly dry. I started to lose interest as the book progressed and the only reason I didn't DNF is because the audiobook is only 2 hours and 41 minutes long.
In short, not for me.
#TheLittleBookofStoicWisdom #NetGalley
November 18, 2025
A good little book for beginners but it also has some useful things for those already familiar with Stoicism, so well worth a read no matter your level.
I'm planning to buy a physical copy for myself so I can highlight some parts which I thought particularly relevant.
I'm planning to buy a physical copy for myself so I can highlight some parts which I thought particularly relevant.
November 3, 2025
The last portion of the book was the best part and had practical ways to put to use in everyday life.
December 4, 2025
guter Ratgeber
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