Are you curious about Stoicism but not sure where to begin?

You’re not alone. With hundreds of modern books claiming to teach “how to be Stoic,” it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But if you want to truly understand and live Stoicism, the best place to start is with the ancient sources themselves.

In this short guide, you’ll discover the 3 essential Stoic books, when to read them, and what makes each one life-changing.

1. Meditations by Marcus Aurelius

Best for: Quiet reflection and personal insight

If you want to get into the mind of a man who ruled the world but struggled with his own emotions, we recommend to read Meditations.

This isn’t a manual or a how-to book. It’s a private journal written by Marcus Aurelius, Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher. Across 12 books (or sections), Marcus reflects on life, death, discipline, and the nature of the universe. It’s raw, honest, and deeply human. You can find how he tried to live by Stoic principles during wars, political duties, and everyday challenges.

But the main problem is that there’s no structure. Just scattered thoughts and repetitions.

Why read it:

• It feels like reading a wise mentor’s notebook
• Shows Stoicism applied in real life
• Helps you see what really matters (and what doesn’t)

When to read it: When you feel overwhelmed, angry, or lost — Marcus brings you back to calm.

2. Letters from a Stoic by Seneca

Best for: Practical advice in short, digestible pieces

Seneca was a Roman statesman and philosopher who wrote letters to his younger friend Lucilius but they were crafted for a wider audience.

Each letter contains life advices for readers and unlike Meditations, Seneca’s letters have a bit more structure.

He writes about time, fear, money, friendship, death, and even luxury. He doesn’t preach. He reflects — and invites you to do the same. Seneca usually uses lots of analogies so that Stoic concepts are easier to understand.

But here’s the problem: The language can be hard to understand.

That’s exactly why we created the Wiser Life app — to make Seneca’s letters easier to understand and apply. We’ve rewritten them in simple modern language, added daily reflections, and organized them by theme (e.g. time, emotion, discipline).

Want to read Seneca the way he meant to be understood?

Download the Wiser Life app now and start with Letter 1: On Saving Time.

3. Discourses by Epictetus

Best for: Deep thinkers, people who want mental strength

Epictetus was born a slave, lived with almost nothing, and still became one of the most respected minds of his time. Unlike Marcus or Seneca, he didn’t write — his student captured his teachings in what we now call Discourses.

He teaches you how to:

• Stop being controlled by emotion
• Focus only on what you can control
• Accept reality without complaint

Why it’s powerful:

It’s direct, sometimes harsh — but always freeing. If Marcus is your gentle guide and Seneca your wise uncle, Epictetus is your no-excuses coach.

When to read it: When you’re ready to train your mind, not just feel inspired.

So… What’s the Best Way to Start?

If you’re just beginning, we recommend this order:

1. Start with Seneca’s letters — short, relatable, and now simplified in the Wiser Life app
2. Dip into Meditations — use it like a daily journal or thought prompt
3. Challenge yourself with Discourses — when you’re ready for the advanced level