The best books by Ryan Holiday
For centuries, people have looked to the great philosophers of old, such as Marcus Aurelius, for guidance and insight into the nature of life.
But in today’s world, we are fortunate enough to have modern-day philosophers like Ryan Holiday, who can teach us valuable lessons about the human experience. Ryan Holiday is a millennial philosopher and bestselling author whose books have been praised by everyone from Fortune 500 executives to renowned athletes.
In this article, we will look at some of his best works and explore the innovative ideas that he has brought to the table.
Who is Ryan Holiday?
Ryan Holiday was born in 1987 in California and has since become a world-renowned author, podcaster, and media strategist. After dropping out of college, he went to work with Robert Greene, the author of The 48 Laws of Power. He then collaborated with popular writer Tucker Max on several New York Times bestsellers before writing his own debut book, Trust Me, I’m Lying.
Since then, Ryan has authored multiple books, such as The Obstacle Is the Way and Perennial Seller: The Art of Making and Marketing Work That Lasts. He has also been featured on renowned podcasts such as The Joe Rogan Experience and The Tim Ferriss Show. He also runs his own podcast titled The Daily Stoic, which has since amassed millions of subscribers worldwide. He’s inspired by ancient wisdom from stoicism.
Currently based in Austin, Texas, with his wife and children, Holiday continues to write articles for Time Magazine, Forbes, and many other publications. He also runs an educational website devoted to practical philosophy called ryanholiday.net.
The best Ryan Holiday books
The Obstacle is the Way
The Obstacle is the Way is an inspiring and captivating read. Through compelling stories, the book outlines a timeless philosophy that has been applied by some of history’s greatest achievers. Readers will gain insight into how to turn adversity into opportunity and take control of their life.
Perennial Seller
Perennial Seller guides creatives on creating a long-lasting work of art, be it a book, movie, startup, or other artistic endeavors. Through detailed advice and practical examples, Holiday offers readers an engaging and thoughtful look at how to make a classic that stands the test of time.
The Daily Stoic
Co-authored by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman, this highly acclaimed book offers readers a comprehensive, year-long journey through the timeless wisdom of ancient Stoicism. It features all-new translations from renowned Stoic authors like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus.
This powerful collection of stoic virtues is an accessible yet profound read that can help anyone live a better life.
Ego is the Enemy
Here’s an incredibly engaging and inspiring read. Readers learn how to conquer their egos and reach success through the stories of prominent figures such as Howard Hughes, Katharine Graham, Bill Belichick, and Eleanor Roosevelt.
Holiday provides thought-provoking advice on topics ranging from ambition to humility, making it a must-read for anyone who wants to improve their life or career.
Stillness is the Key
Stillness is the Key is an incredibly good read that delves into the concept of inner peace and stillness. Oprah Winfrey is one of many high-profile figures featured in this book. Holiday draws on examples from her life to illustrate the power of stillness and how it can help solve complex problems in modern life.
The Boy Who Would be King
This children’s book tells the incredible story of Marcus Aurelius, an ordinary boy chosen to become the Emperor of Rome. Through vivid storytelling, readers explore his journey to learn from the greatest philosophers of his day and ultimately become a great leader.
Growth Hacker Marketing
This comprehensive and updated book explores the world of growth hacking, offering insights into cutting-edge case studies of startups, brands, and small businesses. Readers can expect to learn about the newest tools for testing, tracking, and scaling products to generate explosive reactions.
Lives of the Stoics
Lives of the Stoics is an invaluable addition to any reading list. It offers insightful, digestible biographies of some of the most well-known and lesser-known Stoic figures, bringing their timeless philosophy to life in vivid detail.
With its exploration of virtues such as courage, justice, temperance, and wisdom, the book comprehensively introduces Stoic philosophy and how it can be applied to modern life.
Trust Me, I’m Lying
This one’s a fascinating exploration into the world of media manipulation and how it affects everyday life. Through personal anecdotes and research, Holiday explains how media manipulators use clickbait headlines, lies, and distortion of facts to shape public opinion.
Discipline is Destiny: The Power of Self-Control
Discipline is Destiny explores how self-discipline can lead to success. It examines the lives of famous figures like Lou Gehrig, Queen Elizabeth II, and Marcus Aurelius to demonstrate how their dedication and commitment created their destinies.
All these titles have been featured on Goodreads and are available on Amazon and other online retail platforms.
Honorable mentions
- Conspiracy: Peter Thiel, Hulk Hogan, Gawker, and the Anatomy of Intrigue
- Courage Is Calling: Fortune Favors the Brave
- The Girl Who Would Be Free: A Fable About Epictetus
Ryan Holiday’s book recommendations
- Tools of Titans by Tim Ferriss
- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
- The Education of a Coach by David Halberstam
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FAQ
Which Ryan Holiday book should I read first?
The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living is the best entry into Ryan Holiday’s work and Stoic philosophy.
What books did Ryan Holiday give Joe Rogan?
Ryan Holiday recommended Joe Rogan the books The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene and Meditations by Marcus Aurelius.
How does Ryan Holiday read so much?
Ryan Holiday sets aside time each day to read to expand his knowledge, engage his imagination, and absorb lessons from great thinkers.
What is the difference between Ryan Holiday and Ryan Lewis?
Ryan Holiday is an American author, marketer, and entrepreneur, while Ryan Lewis is an American producer, DJ, musician, and songwriter.
What is Ryan Holiday’s favorite book?
Ryan Holiday’s favorite book is Meditations by Marcus Aurelius.
Is Ryan Holiday working on a new book?
It is unclear if Ryan Holiday is currently working on a new book, but he has been steadily producing books in recent years. We will likely see more work from him in the near future.
