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The Stoics Illustrated
Stoicism is a school of philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium in Athens in the 3rd century BCE. It is a philosophy that stresses positive emotions over negative and helps in providing a framework for living well and achieving happiness. Embraced by emperors in Rome, Stoicism has been an influence on philosophers throughout the years, such as Thomas More and Descartes, and is currently undergoing a cultural resurgence. Divided thematically, Stoics Illustrated contains over 100 quotes from key philosophers, including Zeno of Citium, Cleanthes, Diogenes of Babylon, Cato the Younger, Seneca, Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, and will give the reader many emotional and practical tools for living a better life.
- GenresPhilosophy
160 pages, Hardcover
Published January 14, 2025
2 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
June 26, 2025
This book offers a beautifully designed and visually rich introduction to Stoicism. The illustrations, historical artworks, and thoughtful visual elements make it not only informative but also a pleasure to look at. Each chapter includes parts from classical Stoic texts, which I truly appreciated—it allows readers to engage directly with the ancient sources, creating a stronger connection to the original thinkers.
In terms of content, the book provides a solid overview of Stoic philosophy. However, it's important to note that it primarily covers the foundational aspects. The material is well-researched and clearly presented, but it doesn't delve deeply into more complex interpretations. In that sense, this book is best suited for beginners or those newly curious about Stoicism rather than readers seeking in-depth philosophical analysis.
What stood out to me in a very positive way is how the book traces the influence of Stoicism through history and highlights its relevance in modern times. It successfully shows how Stoic ideas have endured and evolved, making them feel accessible and applicable today.
Overall, this is a thoughtfully assembled, visually compelling, and accessible introduction to Stoicism. A great starting point for anyone wanting to explore this ancient philosophy in a modern, reader-friendly format.
I received a digital copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and I’m very glad I had the opportunity to read it.
In terms of content, the book provides a solid overview of Stoic philosophy. However, it's important to note that it primarily covers the foundational aspects. The material is well-researched and clearly presented, but it doesn't delve deeply into more complex interpretations. In that sense, this book is best suited for beginners or those newly curious about Stoicism rather than readers seeking in-depth philosophical analysis.
What stood out to me in a very positive way is how the book traces the influence of Stoicism through history and highlights its relevance in modern times. It successfully shows how Stoic ideas have endured and evolved, making them feel accessible and applicable today.
Overall, this is a thoughtfully assembled, visually compelling, and accessible introduction to Stoicism. A great starting point for anyone wanting to explore this ancient philosophy in a modern, reader-friendly format.
I received a digital copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and I’m very glad I had the opportunity to read it.
August 24, 2025
This short book is a great introduction to stoicism. Or a great refresher if like me, you studied stoicism long ago and don't remember a lot!
The first part introduces the first stoicists and the birth of their philosophy. Then the book goes on to present key stoicist concepts, with a quote and a brief explanation of each. It made it very easy to grasp the central ideas of stoicism and made me curious to read more. Finally, we take a look at three later influential stoicists (Seneca, Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius) and their works.
There is also a brief chapter about the spread of stoicism through the ages: it was fascinating and I wish it were longer. I also wish it came at the end, instead of the middle; the order of the different sections did confuse me a little. The book is full of gorgeous illustrations, but some felt a bit random and I wasn't sure how they related to the text.
My biggest regret though is that I read this digitally: I just don't think that format works great for this particular book. Having seen the finished printed product, which is stunning, I'd definitely recommend picking up a physical copy instead!
Overall, I really enjoyed reading The Stoics Illustrated and I would highly recommend it if you're interested in an accessible introduction to this philosophy.
Thank you to Amber Books for providing me with an ARC!
The first part introduces the first stoicists and the birth of their philosophy. Then the book goes on to present key stoicist concepts, with a quote and a brief explanation of each. It made it very easy to grasp the central ideas of stoicism and made me curious to read more. Finally, we take a look at three later influential stoicists (Seneca, Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius) and their works.
There is also a brief chapter about the spread of stoicism through the ages: it was fascinating and I wish it were longer. I also wish it came at the end, instead of the middle; the order of the different sections did confuse me a little. The book is full of gorgeous illustrations, but some felt a bit random and I wasn't sure how they related to the text.
My biggest regret though is that I read this digitally: I just don't think that format works great for this particular book. Having seen the finished printed product, which is stunning, I'd definitely recommend picking up a physical copy instead!
Overall, I really enjoyed reading The Stoics Illustrated and I would highly recommend it if you're interested in an accessible introduction to this philosophy.
Thank you to Amber Books for providing me with an ARC!
June 22, 2025
Anyone who knows me well knows I consider myself a practicing Stoic. Consequently, my bookshelves are filled with books on the the school of philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium in Athens in the 3rd century BCE.
I'm glad I've added this work to those shelves.
While it is not the deepest dive into Stoicism, it is one of the most beautiful. Printed using traditional Chinese bookbinding techniques, each page is a single sheet of paper that has been printed on one side only and then folded in half, with the printed pages on the outside. When combined with the works' beautiful illustrations, it creates a stunning visual experience for the reader.
But it's not just its aesthetics that led me to give it five stars.
The content is not as deep as most of the other books I've read on Stoicism. But it contains over 100 quotes from key philosophers, including Zeno of Citium, Cleanthes, Diogenes of Babylon, Cato the Younger, Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius - all of which are divided into themes that make it easy for readers to gain a high-level understanding of Stoicism's core philosophies.
So, if you're looking for a nice (and beautiful) introduction to Stoicism, I highly recommend this work.
I'm glad I've added this work to those shelves.
While it is not the deepest dive into Stoicism, it is one of the most beautiful. Printed using traditional Chinese bookbinding techniques, each page is a single sheet of paper that has been printed on one side only and then folded in half, with the printed pages on the outside. When combined with the works' beautiful illustrations, it creates a stunning visual experience for the reader.
But it's not just its aesthetics that led me to give it five stars.
The content is not as deep as most of the other books I've read on Stoicism. But it contains over 100 quotes from key philosophers, including Zeno of Citium, Cleanthes, Diogenes of Babylon, Cato the Younger, Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius - all of which are divided into themes that make it easy for readers to gain a high-level understanding of Stoicism's core philosophies.
So, if you're looking for a nice (and beautiful) introduction to Stoicism, I highly recommend this work.
July 12, 2025
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Art of War is a nicely written monograph on the classical school of philosophy by Dr. Paul Scade. Released 14th June 2025 by Amber Books, it's 160 pages and will be available in hardcover with a traditional sewn binding and uncut papers as well as ebook formats..
There are short entries throughout describing some of the history behind the rise of the stoic school, some of the main characters and lots of photos of artifacts and facsimile documents, statuary, and references throughout the book. It's a good -introduction- and overview, there's not a lot of deeper analysis or academic thoroughness.
Four stars. This would be an excellent choice for public or school library acquisition, home reference, and gift purposes.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Art of War is a nicely written monograph on the classical school of philosophy by Dr. Paul Scade. Released 14th June 2025 by Amber Books, it's 160 pages and will be available in hardcover with a traditional sewn binding and uncut papers as well as ebook formats..
There are short entries throughout describing some of the history behind the rise of the stoic school, some of the main characters and lots of photos of artifacts and facsimile documents, statuary, and references throughout the book. It's a good -introduction- and overview, there's not a lot of deeper analysis or academic thoroughness.
Four stars. This would be an excellent choice for public or school library acquisition, home reference, and gift purposes.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
July 4, 2025
Nicely done. Read like a textbook but less dry than others I've had the (dis)pleasure of reading. Nit really illustrated as much as pictures of artifacts, but those have always fascinated me too. Having had little knowledge of the stoics prior to reading, I feel like I have a much clearer understanding and appreciation for them.
September 15, 2025
An informative yet accessible overview of the history and bedrock philosophy of the Stoics - more than just a book of quotes, or a reprint of an ancient tome, this book is perfect for modern readers who want a better understanding of the Stoics. Loved the artwork included - images of paintings, sculptures, vases and carvings depicting the various Stoic philosophers and concepts.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews