Patriot

A Memoir

By: Alexei Navalny

Narrated by: Matthew Goode

The powerful and moving memoir of a fearless political opposition leader who paid the ultimate price for his beliefs.

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, thrilling 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

©2024 Alexei Navalny (P)2024 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

"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.... In a dictatorship, Navalny’s only weapon was his life."—The Economist

Don’t stare at the table

Gratitude to Yulia for ensuring this book was published. Rest in power, Alexei. A new Russia will be realized because of you.

Very interesting and eye opening

Well narrated. Well written. Informative. Eye opening and heartbreaking. I highly recommend this book. I learned quite a lot about the world affairs.

Inspiring Reminders

Content, narration, and a sense of authenticity (when truth is so rare today) makes this memoir especially valuable. Navalny not only walked the walk, he lived and died for his people. A bright light in a dark time - may it offer guidance for us all.

Such a brave man

So sad to know the ending. This man and his family are so brave. All through his miserable circumstances he kept his sense of humor. Amazing man and should never be forgotten.

Incredible human being

just enhances belief in what an amazing human being he was. what an inspiration, and what a loss for the Russian people and all of humanity.

His courage

It was as if Navalny was right next to me and telling his story. His dedication to his objective was so great.

Excellent read

I just finished Patriot, and it’s a book that leaves a profound impact. If you’re looking for something inspiring, filled with deep emotions, sharp insights, and a mix of harsh and light-hearted humor, this is a must-read. It’s not just a story—it’s an experience that stays with you long after the final page.

What stands out is the book’s balance. It dives into thought-provoking themes while blending humor to reflect life’s ups and downs. This mix makes it both relatable and engaging, offering moments of levity alongside deep introspection.

If you’re feeling lost, stuck, or in need of strength, Patriot speaks directly to those emotions. It reminds us of our inner resilience and the courage to find purpose, even in challenging times. It’s raw and real, embracing life’s complexity without sugarcoating it, which makes its message of hope all the more powerful.

The humor—sometimes biting, sometimes tender—adds depth and relief to the narrative, making the characters and their journey even more human. The interplay of light and heavy moments keeps you invested throughout.

Patriot is more than a book—it’s a mirror for anyone searching for inspiration or clarity. It’s a story of perseverance, self-discovery, and the enduring strength within us all. I highly recommend it for those seeking something moving, thought-provoking, and ultimately uplifting.

Indeed a Patriot

A glimpse into the world of the Soviet penal system and the corruption that is woven into the current political government. I marveled at Navalny’s courage and mental clarity.

Words fail

Alexei Navalny’s ‘Patriot’ is a profoundly moving testament to the power of conviction and personal sacrifice. The narrative is both inspiring and, at times, heart-wrenching, as it delves into the grim realities faced by those who dare to challenge oppressive regimes. Navalny’s eloquent prose offers a window into the mind of a man for whom the cause of justice outweighs personal safety. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the true cost of standing up for one’s beliefs in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Honestly

Spoken direct from the heart, we all should have such devotion and passion for our beliefs.
Read it.