Let My People Go Surfing

by Yvon Chouinard
Let My People Go Surfing cover
Good Books rating 3.69
Biography and Memoir
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Waterstones
Paperback • £18.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 4333
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781101201220
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2006-09-05
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Yvon Chouinard, a renowned climber and environmentalist, shares his extraordinary life story and the principles that shaped Patagonia, Inc. From his early days as the son of a French Canadian blacksmith to his groundbreaking climbing expeditions, Chouinard's passion for adventure and innovation led him to create a company that prioritizes environmental responsibility and employee well-being. His unique approach to business, which includes allowing employees to surf during work hours, has made Patagonia one of the most respected companies in the world. This book offers a deep dive into the persistence, courage, and vision that have driven Chouinard's success, making it a must-read for entrepreneurs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Reviews
TerrainFirma · 2024-03-25
inspiring 3.50

The book is inspiring and encourages a different approach to business, but it could use more detail and structure for those deeply interested in eco-friendly practices.

This book is a breath of fresh air for anyone looking to rethink how businesses should operate. It’s full of inspiring ideas about sustainability and ethical practices, making it a great read for anyone passionate about environmental responsibility. However, some readers might find it a bit light on specifics, especially those who are already well-versed in eco-friendly business models. It’s more of a motivational guide than a detailed manual, which might leave some wanting more concrete advice.

Quick quotes

    A lovely, inspiring book on thinking differently about business, but perhaps lacking a teensy bit of detail and structure for the eco-geeks amongst us in the ...

    It’s more of a motivational guide than a detailed manual, which might leave some wanting more concrete advice.

    Full of inspiring ideas about sustainability and ethical practices, making it a great read for anyone passionate about environmental responsibility.

Deer God NYC · 2023-01-01
compelling 3.50

The book is seen as a compelling read that challenges conventional business practices, though some may view it as promotional for the Patagonia brand.

The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling read that challenges traditional business practices and promotes a more environmentally conscious approach. They appreciate Chouinard's insights and the book's ability to inspire readers to think differently about business. However, they also acknowledge that some might see the book as a clever piece of propaganda aimed at promoting the Patagonia brand. Despite this, the reviewer finds the book to be a valuable read for anyone interested in sustainable business practices.

Quick quotes

    A cynic could argue that this book is a clever piece of propaganda aimed at convincing customers of the moral superiority of the PATAGONIA brand

    The book contains powerful insights on simplicity, disrupting yourself, communicating with customers, seeking inspiration from unlikely sources

    A must-read to understand the company's origins

The Trek · 2014-05-22
moving 4.00

The book is a unique and moving autobiography that also serves as a blueprint for hopeful business practices, though it may not appeal to everyone.

This book is a standout for its unique blend of personal storytelling and business philosophy. Yvon Chouinard’s journey is both moving and inspiring, offering a fresh perspective on how to run a company with integrity. The book’s message of hope and sustainability is powerful, but it might not resonate with readers who prefer more traditional business advice. It’s a great read for those who enjoy a mix of autobiography and business insights, but it’s not for everyone.

Quick quotes

    Wonderful . . . a moving autobiography, the story of a unique business, and a detailed blueprint for hope.

    The book’s message of hope and sustainability is powerful, but it might not resonate with readers who prefer more traditional business advice.

    It’s a great read for those who enjoy a mix of autobiography and business insights, but it’s not for everyone.

The Independent · 2005-11-20
fascinating 3.75

Yvon Chouinard’s approach is unconventional, but his management techniques and company values offer valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Yvon Chouinard is a true maverick in the business world, and his book reflects that. It’s a fascinating look at how his unique management techniques and company values have shaped Patagonia. While his approach might not be suitable for everyone, there’s a lot to learn from his experiences. The book is particularly valuable for those who are interested in alternative business models and ethical practices. It’s not a conventional business guide, but it’s packed with insights that can inspire and challenge readers to think differently about their own ventures.

Quick quotes

    Yvon Chouinard is a maverick, but can other budding entrepreneurs learn from his management techniques and company values to maximise their ...

    It’s a fascinating look at how his unique management techniques and company values have shaped Patagonia.

    The book is particularly valuable for those who are interested in alternative business models and ethical practices.

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