Discover21 Co., Ltd. (headquartered in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Naomi Taniguchi) published 'TIMELESS WISDOM: Classics to Open Your Life – Meditations' (by Marcus Aurelius, edited and compiled by Jill Harsson, translated by Hiroko Sasaki) on June 19, 2026.

Originally written 2,000 years ago by Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, 'Meditations' has been re-edited and newly translated with messages tailored for modern readers. With stylish design and a clear, one-topic-per-spread format, this book offers an accessible and inspiring opportunity to reflect on one’s true self.

Even Roman Emperors Faced the Same Struggles

Notifications from social media, casual remarks from others, anxiety about an uncertain future—these external voices can overwhelm us, gradually eroding our inner peace.

In fact, Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius faced similar struggles. Despite his imperial status, he quietly recorded in his private notes his frustrations with reality not going as planned, and his moments of doubt and vulnerability. These reflections were later compiled into the renowned 'Meditations.'

His candid words serve as profound, empowering, and beautiful guidance to strengthen and align our inner selves.

106 Insights to Reclaim Inner Calm and Quiet Confidence

"Being swayed by others’ opinions is like giving away your time to them." "Instead of clinging to what you cannot change, focus fully on the present moment." Each spread features a quote from 'Meditations' on the right page, with a modern interpretation and advice on the left.

No complex philosophical jargon is used. Whether in the morning before leaving home or late at night after a tiring day, opening to any page may gently comfort and uplift your heart.

Recommended by Yusuke Narita; Cover Art by Kata Yukiko

Yusuke Narita, Assistant Professor at Yale University and CEO of Hanjuku Kanojo Inc., who has read 'Meditations' many times, has endorsed this edition:

"Money, power, and success cannot solve your life’s deepest concerns. The answer lies in 'Meditations.'"

The cover illustration is an original artwork by popular illustrator Kata Yukiko, known for her presence at Paper Fair and Comitia. She reimagines the world of 'Meditations' with a contemporary aesthetic.

Recommended for:

Those easily affected by others’ opinions or words

Those feeling exhausted by social media and external noise

Those interested in philosophy but intimidated by dense texts

◎ Book Overview

【Table of Contents】

Book 1: Lessons from Aurelius

Book 2: Living as Yourself

Book 3: Believing in Yourself

Book 4: Calming the Mind

Book 5: Walking Your Own Path

Book 6: Living with Others

Book 7: Embracing Change Without Fear

Book 8: Not Being Controlled by Emotions

Book 9: Living Honestly

Book 10: Living Flexibly

Book 11: Facing Life with Integrity

Book 12: Living Life to the Fullest

【Author Information】

Marcus Aurelius (121–180)

Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, renowned for his deep intellect, integrity, and dedication to virtue. As the last of the 'Five Good Emperors,' he demonstrated exceptional leadership and resilience during politically and militarily turbulent times. 'Meditations' is his private journal of self-reflection and ethical discipline, later compiled into a philosophical masterpiece. His teachings emphasize self-discipline, mindfulness, and harmony with nature, offering timeless guidance for modern individuals seeking purpose and meaning.

<Editor> Jill Harsson

An author and career coach with over 20 years of experience writing and advising on personal growth, career development, mental health, and well-being. She has authored over 22 books, including titles on resilience, communication skills, and assertive self-expression.

<Translator> Hiroko Sasaki

Graduate of Osaka University’s Faculty of Human Sciences, with master’s degrees from Stockholm University’s Journalism Program and Tokyo Metropolitan University’s Graduate School of Business Administration. Former publisher employee, now freelance. Her translations include 'The Manager’s Job,' 'Laziness Doesn’t Exist,' and 'Teams Work Through Future-Oriented Dialogue' (all published by Discover21), and 'Selling Ice to Eskimos' (Forest Publishing).

【Book Information】

Title: 'TIMELESS WISDOM: Classics to Open Your Life – Meditations'

Release Date: June 19, 2026

Publisher: Discover21

Format: Hardcover (softcover) / 256 pages

ISBN: 978-4799332924

【Where to Buy】

<Paperback>

Amazon (exclusive bonus: smartphone wallpaper)

https://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/4799332929/d21_rs_pr-22

Rakuten Books (exclusive bonus: postcard)

https://hb.afl.rakuten.co.jp/hgc/34ae3b9f.60213531.34ae3ba0.3421f3bd/_RTLink78327?pc=http%3A%2F%2Fbooks.rakuten.co.jp%2Frdt%2Fitem%2F%3Fsid%3D213310%26sno%3DISBN%3A9784799332924&link_type=hybrid_url&ut=eyJwYWdlIjoidXJsIiwidHlwZSI6Imh5YnJpZF91cmwiLCJjb2wiOjF9

<E-books>

Kindle

https://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0H3KQZGLW/d21_rs_pr-22

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