A new book from the #1 New York Times bestselling author and creator of The Daily Stoic, Ryan Holiday

It’s one of the most incredible stories in all of history.

A young boy, out of nowhere, is chosen to be the emperor of most of the known world.

What he learned, what he did, who he was, would echo in eternity. 

In 138 AD, Hadrian, the emperor of Rome, chose Marcus Aurelius to succeed him. He knew no one was born ready for the job, so he arranged for the young boy’s education. 

The greatest philosophers of the day were assigned to teach him, and all threw themselves at the almost inhuman task of preparing someone for absolute power. 

It’s a parable for life, really. The gods, fate, someone chooses something for us, calls us to something. Will we answer? Will we step up? Will we achieve the greatness within us?

Marcus Aurelius did. Absolute power not only didn’t corrupt, it made him better. We marvel at him centuries later--this man who thought he would not be remembered, that posthumous fame was worthless--stands today more famous than ever. A hero to millions.

And now, that parable has been illustrated and told for all ages in a new book - The Boy Who Would Be King. 

This 100 page book is written by bestselling author Ryan Holiday and illustrated by the illustrious Victor Juhasz. Each page tells the story of Marcus’s rise to power through Ryan’s words and Victor’s illustrations. 

The book includes:

  • 82 exclusive illustrations from Victor Juhasz
  • An illustrated ‘journey map’ showing the journeys of Marcus Aurelius
  • Over 100 pages of writing from Ryan Holiday

The book is produced from start to finish by Daily Stoic and printed here in the United States.

As a special bonus, you’ll get a FREE audiobook version as well. Simply check out through our website here, and you’ll automatically get the free audiobook.*

The timeless tale is told for all ages and makes a great gift. 

*Audiobook will be delivered immediately after purchase through our website.

*Signed copies take 5-7 business days to process. To personalize, click here.

Ryan Holiday

Ryan Holiday is one of the world's foremost thinkers and writers on ancient philosophy and its place in everyday life.

He is a sought-after speaker, strategist, and the author of many bestselling books including The Obstacle Is the WayEgo Is the EnemyThe Daily Stoic; and the #1 New York Times bestseller Stillness Is the Key.

His books have been translated into over 30 languages and read by over two million people worldwide. He lives outside Austin, Texas, with his family.