Dirtbag Billionaire: How Yvon Chouinard Built Patagonia, Made a Fortune, and Gave It All Away

New York Times journalist Gelles (The Man Who Broke Capitalism) presents a comprehensive biography of Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard, who in 2022 relinquished his billionaire status after giving the company to a trust and a nonprofit dedicated to environmental causes. Born in Maine in 1938, Chouinard quickly developed a love of nature and rock climbing. He made daring ascents up rock walls in California and beyond, becoming known as a “dirtbag climber,” an outdoorsman who had few possessions and slept on the ground. He fell into business somewhat accidentally: After seeing a need for high-quality climbing equipment, he began making and selling carabiners and pitons out of his car. Similarly, after spotting a need for more durable climbing clothes, he entered the apparel market, founding Patagonia in 1973. Gelles chronicles how the company became a “multinational powerhouse” while defying convention—it encouraged responsible consumption and regularly donated to environmental groups. Also explored is how Chouinard, who was morally opposed to the idea of hoarding wealth, made the groundbreaking decision to give away his fortune. This nuanced and deeply researched account doesn’t shy away from Chouinard’s flaws (his elitism and tendency to “sow chaos”) or Patagonia’s (despite the company’s efforts to minimize its environmental impact, it still relies on synthetic materials and fossil fuels). It’s a riveting behind-the-scenes look at a businessman who marches to the beat of his own drum. (Sept.)