Structured as a story, the author introduces her readers to an easy introduction to the philosophy of Stoicism.
How can Stoic principles help us navigate the challenges of our divided, unstable world. Can the principles of Stoicism lead us to a peaceful, 'good' life? We are all going to die, so how should we live?
Anger, violence, events outside your control and consumerism are some of the negative features of modern life, but they have always been features of past eras too.
Be indifferent to wealth and fame; don’t worry about what others think of you; understand that you can only change what is within your power to change; control your anger, try to maintain a relaxed state of self-control: Stoics maintain these are the behaviours that matter and will lead to happiness.
In this novel a traumatised journalist is given a dream assignment - track down the mayor of a remote and mysterious town whose citizens are reported to be the happiest people on Earth.
Journeying into a harsh and inhospitable landscape, she overcomes many obstacles before arriving in Silver Springs, whose citizens live according to the ancient philosophy of Stoicism and where she has been granted three days to interview the mayor. During this time all of her ideas of modern life are challenged by the mayor who acts as her guide. After much personal struggle she understands the wisdom of this approach to life. An unexpected twist at the ending puts her journey into a new perspective.
Almost a self-help book but with the sweetener of a story line this book may appeal to anyone wondering what this philosophy is about.
Next month’s book is ‘The Deed’ by Susannah Begbie.
Meg Dillon
How can Stoic principles help us navigate the challenges of our divided, unstable world. Can the principles of Stoicism lead us to a peaceful, 'good' life? We are all going to die, so how should we live?
Anger, violence, events outside your control and consumerism are some of the negative features of modern life, but they have always been features of past eras too.
Be indifferent to wealth and fame; don’t worry about what others think of you; understand that you can only change what is within your power to change; control your anger, try to maintain a relaxed state of self-control: Stoics maintain these are the behaviours that matter and will lead to happiness.
In this novel a traumatised journalist is given a dream assignment - track down the mayor of a remote and mysterious town whose citizens are reported to be the happiest people on Earth.
Journeying into a harsh and inhospitable landscape, she overcomes many obstacles before arriving in Silver Springs, whose citizens live according to the ancient philosophy of Stoicism and where she has been granted three days to interview the mayor. During this time all of her ideas of modern life are challenged by the mayor who acts as her guide. After much personal struggle she understands the wisdom of this approach to life. An unexpected twist at the ending puts her journey into a new perspective.
Almost a self-help book but with the sweetener of a story line this book may appeal to anyone wondering what this philosophy is about.
Next month’s book is ‘The Deed’ by Susannah Begbie.
Meg Dillon
