University Libraries Promotion and Tenure Recognition

Written almost 2,000 years ago by Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius, this amazing book is still valid today. The original text was probably never intended to be published and contains the collection of Aurelius’ personal reflections on life and the role of a human in the universe. He contemplates what it means to live a good life and how to be humble, patient, generous, and strong in the face of all kinds of difficulties. The book became a classic exposition of principles of Stoic philosophy. I selected this book because it is one of the best books on self-improvement—universal, with keen insights into the human nature.