A Handbook for New Stoics

This is a book for those committed to the Stoic life. The exercises are worthwhile and in-depth and could be scary for some. It is not a book you just “read” but a book that you “do”. On the author’s suggestion (as time would not allow for the full 52-week practice in order to get this review written) I did the recommended chapters and a few more to get a feeling for the book. There is a lot of ancient philosophy references and modern day examples which were a good fit for me.

I do not suggest that you pick up this book for a quick fix of what troubles you. It would be best suited to someone on a continuous path of self-learning and understanding of those around us.

This is not a book to take to the beach, it’s worth should be meandered through, reflected on, and questioned for one’s personal growth.

Favourite quote: "Worry less about the outcome of the situation, and more about how to build and maintain your character in the situation."

A Handbook for New Stoics by Massimo Pigliucci and Gregory Lopez gives reader’s a look at how the philosophy of stoicism can benefit them in their everyday life. Broken up into bite-sized weekly lessons, each presented with a quote from a leader in the ancient movement of stoicism, the reader is able to take on these concepts while putting them to use.
Reading this book, I became keenly aware of how many techniques I have used to work through stress and struggles with mental illness have actually been stoic in nature. If you are a person that deals with a lot of stress or has trouble maintaining logic in the face of emotions (which are not necessarily contradictory), this book can be a real benefit. We can all use some more practice being aware of how our thoughts are effecting our moods on a daily basis and in turning this insight outward with our everyday interpersonal dealings.
If you are truly looking to “know thyself”, inward analysis is a necessity. A Handbook for New Stoics is an easily readable, delightful handbook for turning thoughts into action.

This is a book for all of us that are leading a Stoic life and studying self awareness. The exercises in-depth are soul searching and will enrich your Stoic lifestyle. This is a excellent guide and workbook. I recommend you keep this book by your bed and refer to it daily to build your knowledge. The author has included philosophy which is a wonderful learning tool,, The weekly lessons, quotes and techniques are the tools that you need to delve into the practice of being Stoic. The examples are applicable for your study and assist in your learning, A wonderful way to practice your self inventory over the course of a year.
Thank you to the publisher and to the author for the opportunity. This is a book I have learned so much from and will refer to often for my Stoic lifestyle. I recommend this quite highly with 5 stars.