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Patriot: A Memoir Hardcover – October 22, 2024
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"Patriot is by turns funny, fiery, reflective and tragic, laced with Navalny’s trademark wry humor and idealism....a gutting personal account from a husband and father facing the reality that he will never be with his family again."—The New York Times
"Honest"—The Washington Post • "Shocking"—The Atlantic • "Uplifting." —Vanity Fair
"A testament to resilience" —Associated Press • "Will be seen as a historic text."—The Economist
Alexei Navalny began writing Patriot shortly after his near-fatal poisoning in 2020. It is the full story of his life: his youth, his call to activism, his marriage and family, his commitment to challenging a world super-power determined to silence him, and his total conviction that change cannot be resisted—and will come.
In vivid, page-turning detail, including never-before-seen correspondence from prison, Navalny recounts, among other things, his political career, the many attempts on his life, and the lives of the people closest to him, and the relentless campaign he and his team waged against an increasingly dictatorial regime.
Written with the passion, wit, candor, and bravery for which he was justly acclaimed, Patriot is Navalny’s final letter to the world: a moving account of his last years spent in the most brutal prison on earth; a reminder of why the principles of individual freedom matter so deeply; and a rousing call to continue the work for which he sacrificed his life.
“This book is a testament not only to Alexei’s life, but to his unwavering commitment to the fight against dictatorship—a fight he gave everything for, including his life. Through its pages, readers will come to know the man I loved deeply—a man of profound integrity and unyielding courage. Sharing his story will not only honor his memory but also inspire others to stand up for what is right and to never lose sight of the values that truly matter." —Yulia Navalnaya
- Print length496 pages
- LanguageEnglish
- PublisherKnopf
- Publication dateOctober 22, 2024
- Dimensions6.37 x 1.56 x 9.52 inches
- ISBN-100593320964
- ISBN-13978-0593320969
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Editorial Reviews
Review
"Patriot is by turns funny, fiery, reflective and tragic, laced with Navalny’s trademark wry humor and idealism....a gutting personal account from a husband and father facing the reality that he will never be with his family again."—Alexandra Alter, The New York Times
"Extraordinary... This is a brave and brilliant book, a luminous account of Navalny's life and dark times. It is a challenge from beyond the grave to Russia's murder-addicted rulers.... sharp, playful and lacking in self-pity. Nothing crushes him." —Luke Harding, The Guardian
"Patriot...will be seen as a historic text....Much like Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Notes from a Dead House” (1862)... and Martin Luther King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail” (1963), Patriot transcends its place and time. Its value lies not in what it tells you about the cruelties of Mr. Putin’s regime, but in what it reveals about the human spirit....[Patriot] is a passionate account of Russia’s extreme violence and a moving reflection on endurance and accepting death.... Navalny’s only weapon was his life."—The Economist
"Alexei Navalny's memoir is a gospel...Like a beautifully crafted novel....Uplifting.... Terrifying.... [His prison diaries are] horrifying, but impossible to stop reading.... He remained unfailingly radiant." —Mikhail Zygar, Vanity Fair
"Even in death, [Navalny] continues his fight against President Vladimir Putin.... Through even the darkest episodes, Navalny’s sunniness and humor shine through–whether he’s describing an episode of Rick and Morty that he left unfinished when he collapsed on that flight, or taking joy in the indulgence of bread and butter that he only ate on Sunday mornings behind bars."—Ari Shapiro, host of "All Things Considered," NPR
"[Navalny's] words testify to the humor and optimism needed to withstand such an ordeal. Navalny displays these qualities in abundance, and in a moment when authoritarianism is on the rise, his attitude provides a valuable lesson on how resistance can sustain itself."—"10 books that made us think the most this year," The Atlantic
"Alexei Navalny somehow never lost hope....[His] enduring idealism, optimism and humor...are striking and inspiring."—Robin Abcarian, Los Angeles Times
"[Navalny's memoir] offers incisive commentary on contemporary Russian history; a handbook for campaigning, by a gifted political activist... a martyr’s prison diary, with a statement of profound Christian faith; and a call to action.... Patriot is also a most moving love letter to his wife, Yulia Navalnaya."—Wendy Slater, The Times Literary Supplement
"[Navalny] understood the power of his own example.... Putin understood this too, which is presumably why he would not allow his most effective critic to live."—Katie Stallard, The New Statesman
"Full of the energy, vision and humor he was known for, Navalny’s book is a call to individual political power—how to find agency in a world designed to crush it.... Navalny’s love of the work, from producing to promoting it, is thrilling, as is his understanding that how you work—pledging transparency to his supporters, for example—matters....How do you go on once your hero is gone? Navalny’s book is partly an answer to that."—Miriam Elder, Bloomberg
"It’s hard to imagine that a prison memoir could be charming, particularly when the author is an implacable opposition leader who died in a Siberian penal colony at age 47. Patriot...is distressing but also surprisingly good-humored and funny. Navalny’s diary entries from prison are extraordinary, but some of the best writing describes his Soviet childhood and the collapse of the U.S.S.R., in 1991. Patriot makes you think worse of Putin, if that’s possible, but also better of Russia for having produced a defender as talented, determined, and likable as Navalny."—Alessandra Stanley, Air Mail
"A compelling chronicle of courage and insight that will, hopefully, be read for generations to come.... I had thought [Navalny] would survive and emerge [from prison] like Mandela did, to lead. It is tragic that he won’t....Citizens everywhere should read this book. While they still can."—Jeremy Kinsman, former Canadian Ambassador to Russia
"Alexei Navalny’s memoir is a reminder of literature’s true purpose."—The Sydney Morning Herald
"A chance to commune with the mind of a dissident....[with] slicing clarity.... Navalny himself [had]...such reserves of fortitude...such a sense of self...such an ability to laugh but also believe."—Gal Beckerman, The Atlantic
"[Patriot] records the Russian dissident’s brave career and dark final days... Gripping... compelling, impressive... his enthusiasm is so infectious... a remarkable achievement.... [with] deep pathos." —Con Coughlin, The Telegraph
"Honest, full of penetrating wit... as cheerful and empathetic as Putin is malevolent and threatening. [Navanly] wielded cheerfulness as a weapon and never lost faith that the right side must eventually prevail." —Will Englund, The Washington Post
"A worthy testament to the author's resistance... and a heartbreaking account of Russia's collapse into war and repression... [Patriot is] the best example left to us of Navalny's defiance, courage, humour, and love for a country he believed could become 'the beautiful Russia of the future'."—Max Seddon, Financial Times
"Every page is alive.... Long after Putin draws his last breath, people will read this aptly titled book, an inestimable record of a heroic life, one that will inspire generations to come. A true profile in courage, written with verve and wit." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
"So brilliant Putin had to kill him.... soul-jarring" —Owen Matthews, The Sunday Times (London)
"A testament to resilience... Alexei Navalny never loses faith.... He tracks the boredom, isolation, exhaustion, suffering and absurdity of prison life, while working in asides about everything from 19th century French literature to Billie Eilish. But Patriot also reads as a testament to a famed dissident’s extraordinary battle against despair as the Russian authorities gradually increase their crackdown against him, and even shares advice on how to confront the worst and still not lose hope."—Hillel Italie and Dasha Litvinova, Associated Press
"My confession to you is that I did not intend to read all of the book.... [But] I read every word of it. I couldn't stop reading... incredibly moving."—Rachel Maddow, in an interview with Yulia Navalnaya
About the Author
Product details
- Publisher : Knopf (October 22, 2024)
- Language : English
- Hardcover : 496 pages
- ISBN-10 : 0593320964
- ISBN-13 : 978-0593320969
- Item Weight : 2.31 pounds
- Dimensions : 6.37 x 1.56 x 9.52 inches
- Best Sellers Rank: #2,697 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
- #88 in Politics & Government (Books)
- #118 in Memoirs (Books)
- #151 in History (Books)
- Customer Reviews:
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Customers find the book inspiring and well-written. They describe it as a classic memoir that sheds light on the Russian political system and culture. The humor, wit, and charm of the author are also appreciated. Readers praise Navalny's personality and selflessness. They appreciate his insights into the Russian political system and how to engage with Russian voters.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers find the book inspiring and moving. They describe it as a thoughtful, honest account of his life that helps them understand him better. Readers also mention the book is an important narrative about his struggle for Russia to overcome adversity.
"What an amazing and important book. This is the story of murdered Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, written by him...." Read more
"...I found myself laughing out loud a few times. He was a great human being. His death was a tragedy, yet not unexpected...." Read more
"...treatment in a series of Russian penal colonies with honesty, strength, and amazing humor...." Read more
"This is an amazingly fluid, thoughtful, and humorous memoir, written under unimaginable conditions and with unimaginable determination and grace...." Read more
Customers find the book engaging and a must-read for patriots. They describe it as an important memoir of the decade, with compelling content. Readers praise the author's writing style and say the book gets better with each page.
"What an amazing and important book. This is the story of murdered Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, written by him...." Read more
"...even at the cost of his life - all of these come through in this brilliant memoir...." Read more
"One of the best books I have read in a year. Navalny was quite the man! I can only admire his strength and bravery." Read more
"...His bravery is unmatched and his spirit is infectious and ever lasting." Read more
Customers find the book well-written and easy to read. They appreciate the author's clear voice and honesty in telling the truth. The memoir is described as real and true, with humor.
"...It is translated seamlessly into English. You will laugh and you will cry...." Read more
"...his despicable treatment in a series of Russian penal colonies with honesty, strength, and amazing humor...." Read more
"...an amazingly fluid, thoughtful, and humorous memoir, written under unimaginable conditions and with unimaginable determination and grace...." Read more
"...of his life as a true Russian leader is illuminating because it is so genuine and personal and down-to-earth...." Read more
Customers appreciate Navalany's determination and grace. They describe the book as sophisticated, worldly, and down-to-earth.
"...Navalany’s hard work, humor, bravery and sacrifice are apparent in every page of this book...." Read more
"...memoir, written under unimaginable conditions and with unimaginable determination and grace...." Read more
"...leader is illuminating because it is so genuine and personal and down-to-earth...." Read more
"...Navalny's efforts were methodical, without malice, and how he maintained such optimism in light of the obstacles, setbacks, and challenges he faced..." Read more
Customers find the book humorous, witty, and laugh-out-loud funny in parts.
"...Navalany’s hard work, humor, bravery and sacrifice are apparent in every page of this book...." Read more
"...But then there is the torture... Navalny's wit and charm, his love for his family, his idealism, his dedication to stand by his word,..." Read more
"...in a series of Russian penal colonies with honesty, strength, and amazing humor...." Read more
"This is an amazingly fluid, thoughtful, and humorous memoir, written under unimaginable conditions and with unimaginable determination and grace...." Read more
Customers appreciate the personality of the book. They find Navalny's strength and bravery admirable.
"One of the best books I have read in a year. Navalny was quite the man! I can only admire his strength and bravery." Read more
"Real life drama and trauma. Amazing person." Read more
"Page turner, engrossing. Loved this man. Recommend!" Read more
"This is one of the best books I've ever read. The man was amazing and so was his life. It's a tragedy that he no longer walks among us." Read more
Customers appreciate the author's selflessness and bravery. They find him a true patriot and kind.
"...under unimaginable conditions and with unimaginable determination and grace...." Read more
"...wrote this book out of love for his country, but it is a powerful gift to American readers...." Read more
"I ordered this wool to help support his family Very kind and brave man...." Read more
"...His love for his country is historic and noble!" Read more
Customers find the book helpful for understanding the Russian political system and culture. They appreciate the author's tactics for engaging with Russian voters and giving hope to the people.
"...The insights into the Kremlin, its main players (especially Putin) and the depths of autocratic corruption will plant itself in your mind’s eye as..." Read more
"...surprisingly straightforward tactics for messaging and exchanging ideas with Russian voters, no matter who they are...." Read more
"...Such a courageous, selfless man. He gave Russian citizens hope,and will be missed!" Read more
"Navalny is a fabulous author! He sheds light on the Russian political system and separates it from the actual Russian culture" Read more
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Top reviews from the United States
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- Reviewed in the United States on October 26, 2024What an amazing and important book. This is the story of murdered Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, written by him. It is translated seamlessly into English. You will laugh and you will cry. But most importantly, his story will shed light on the corruption Nalvany and his family exposed about the people who are in power in Russia. Navalany’s hard work, humor, bravery and sacrifice are apparent in every page of this book. It illustrates that we all have the power to change the world in which we live. This brave man and his family never gave up the fight for freedom, or hope. Sadly he paid the ultimate price for his efforts. What truly makes this story incredible is that their entire family knew that this would likely be the outcome. Yet they continued their fight. We must continue to do the same; not only to honor their sacrifices, but to work to ensure every person has freedom. Even in an oppressed nation like Russia. Thank you to the entire Navalny family. Your work and sacrifice will not be forgotten and will continue.
- Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024I've read hundreds of memoirs. This one is in the Top Ten. I read it on Kindle. I am back to buy a hardback as the pictures included are wonderful and deserve a place in my library.
The story seemed a bit disjointed to me. First comes the part written by Alexei and finished by his wife. Then more of the prison days, his last few years - IG posts and the prison diary. Why were these after the main story? Was it added by his wife at the last moment? No matter. It still shines.
Some of the activities permitted in prisons abroad seem like luxuries, such as cooking in a cell. But then there is the torture...
Navalny's wit and charm, his love for his family, his idealism, his dedication to stand by his word, even at the cost of his life - all of these come through in this brilliant memoir. I especially enjoyed reading about his childhood as that part of his life was unfamiliar to me. I found myself laughing out loud a few times.
He was a great human being. His death was a tragedy, yet not unexpected. The fact that those responsible will never pay is outrageous. Navalny didn't think Putin would kill him while incarcerated as it was too "public". But he did. And no one did a thing about it.
Alexei is missed.
- Reviewed in the United States on November 26, 2024The author proceeds through the recording of his despicable treatment in a series of Russian penal colonies with honesty, strength, and amazing humor. The insights into the Kremlin, its main players (especially Putin) and the depths of autocratic corruption will plant itself in your mind’s eye as you navigate the next four years in American history. Project 2025 could have been written by Putin and presented to our President-elect as a gift and guidebook. And no, I’m not a conspiracy theorist or a leftwing liberal dweeb. I’m a 76-year-old grandma, quilter, knitter, and patriot. Just read it! You’ll see what I mean.
- Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2025One of the best books I have read in a year. Navalny was quite the man! I can only admire his strength and bravery.
- Reviewed in the United States on February 25, 2025How did this get to see the light of day, let alone get published? As Navalny matures, so does his purpose. Yet he still remains grounded and identifies with his countrymen, more than the ugly evil and absurd Putin kleptocracy. A patriotism that is highly relevant for our own times.
- Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2024This is an amazingly fluid, thoughtful, and humorous memoir, written under unimaginable conditions and with unimaginable determination and grace. It will join works like MLK's "Letter from Birmingham Jail," "The Prison Letters of Nelson Mandela," and Gandhi's autobiography as studies in philosophical and physical courage. It will also stand as the essential indictment of the brutal reign of Vladimir Putin over a nation and people who deserve better.
- Reviewed in the United States on December 23, 2024I was weeping while reading. Here was a full human being who suffered greatly at the hands of a sadly terrible regime. He is funny, of course, because that's his personality. His account of his life as a true Russian leader is illuminating because it is so genuine and personal and down-to-earth. That we are at least left with his narration of his experiences (including his poisoning with a nerve agent typically used by the cowardly little man who subsequently killed him) is a blessing. We are living in a time when evil seems to triumph, but of course it can't. This book is an icon now for patriots worldwide to cling to with hope.
- Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2025Alexei and others in Russia will prevail eventually. His bravery is unmatched and his spirit is infectious and ever lasting.
Top reviews from other countries
- CassR66Reviewed in Canada on February 3, 2025
5.0 out of 5 stars Powerful
I am 58 years old and followed as much of Alexei Navalny's life/career as i could.
I literally bawled my eyes out when I learned that he had died. I felt ridiculous, of course but I felt he was a brilliant man and a martyr for full freedom in Russia.
This book is so informative, funny, astonishing and brave.
It's a fantastic book, written by a fantastic man.
- Cisco KidReviewed in Germany on February 21, 2025
5.0 out of 5 stars Well written
Simple and easy to follow. Surprising story. Inspiring me to write.
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William GiannelliReviewed in Italy on January 21, 2025
5.0 out of 5 stars La storia di un uomo coraggioso
Un libro da leggere se si è interessati alla storia contemporanea!
- CMcKReviewed in France on December 26, 2024
5.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring in the true sense of the term
Too short a life. What vision and integrity. Such an interesting book and life. A man of depth both intellectual and emotional. A person of immense strength and energy. What a great president of Russia he would have made. This book has been put together with the material available and well reflects Navalny’s situation. A fascinating read.
- Diane ClancyReviewed in the United Kingdom on December 1, 2024
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazingly brave man
This was a fantastic book about a persons belief in honesty, transparency and integrity which the world leaders would do well to listen to. It was a true testament to a really great man and his family who endured the worst conditions and punishments all because of his unwillingness to join in with a truly corrupt political system. A truly remarkable, courageous man with a sometimes amusing as well as heartbreaking story to tell. I could not recommend this book enough.