Book Review: Let My People Go Surfing By Yvon Chouinard

Let My People Go Surfing

By Yvon Chouinard

Photo via Patagonia.com

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Let My People Go Surfing has the potential to change the way you think business should be done. Written by the founder and owner of Patagonia, Yvon Chouinard, the book shows that corporate consciousness is not impossible to achieve. Through the story of Patagonia, their trials and errors, and Chouinard's own experiences as a climber, the simple point is made is that there is a way to do business that is better for everyone.

An important read for consumers as well, Let My People Go Surfing discusses the culture of consumerism and makes strong points about how the power is in the consumer's hands to improve the system and ultimately change our environment. Chouinard does address the fact that corporations have influence in government and policy, but makes a persuasive argument that we are the ones who have given corporations this power by willingly consuming their goods but not demanding any change. Ultimately we're the ones who "vote" policies with our dollars through the companies and corporations we support.

Let My People Go Surfing does not feel like a lecture, but instead a guide to being a conscious consumer and encourages readers to exercise our collective muscle. One of the most salient points made in the book is education is the key to change. When we become better informed consumers, we are able to make an impact on everything around us. Chouinard successfully maintains a practical tone throughout most of the book, making well formed arguments and proposed solutions for problems, but only asks what is realistic of people.