Stand

by Cory Booker

The instant New York Times bestseller

An urgent call to rekindle our shared American ideals.

We are living through a time of crisis. The problems we face grow more serious, while our divisions continue to widen. But our history overflows with people who used the power of our foundational virtues to overcome impossible obstacles.

In Stand, Senator Cory Booker offers a hopeful and practical path forward, weaving together powerful stories and stirring personal reflections to remind us that our country’s shared ideals can serve as a North Star to guide us, even when our journey feels especially dark and perilous. He argues that our principles are not luxuries; they are vital, strategic keys to our survival and success. By wielding these tools, we can reclaim our sense of common cause and change the course of our country’s history.

Stand takes readers on a trip through America’s past and present, showcasing moments when individuals and communities—in unexpected situations and against staggering odds—prevailed by embodying the best of our nation’s virtues. Through the stories of leaders from President George Washington and Congressman John Lewis, to suffragist Alice Paul and Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, to environmental justice advocate Ron Finley and disability rights activist Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins, Booker offers inspiring and actionable insights for Americans from all walks of life.

Published ahead of America’s 250th anniversary, Stand is a defiantly optimistic challenge to reclaim our national story and work together to redeem the American dream.

Genres: Nonfiction, Politics, History, Audiobook, Biography Memoir, Memoir

265 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 24, 2026

About the author

Cory Anthony Booker is an American politician and the junior United States Senator from New Jersey, in office since 2013. Previously he served as mayor of Newark from 2006 to 2013.

Reviews

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this truly inspirational story of unity and hopefulness in this age of divisiveness all in a single day.

I've always admired (and voted for) our senior Senator from New Jersey but even if you are not lucky enough be a Jerseyite you will still enjoy and learn from this story.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a nice surprise. I was looking for something non-fiction, relatively short to listen to. This seemed to fit that bill.
I have long admired Cory Booker. This book tells stories of people who were in untenable circumstances yet came out on better for it. Among the stories is one about John Lewis which put in even more awe of him than I already felt.
Booker even shares a story about himself that doesn't show him at his best. I appreciated that he shared.
This may be the book many of us need to help us to take a stand.

[Gerry Durisin · Rating 5 out of 5]

In compelling stories and well-written prose, Senator Booker challenges Americans to consider, and to activate in our own daily lives, ten virtues he believes are vital components of our American dream: Agency; Vulnerability; Patriotism; Truth; Humility; Community; Creativity; Perseverance; Grace; and Vision. He draws on examples from his own life and from our history to illustrate the meaning of these ideals and to demonstrate their power in the lives of real people. Some of the historical figures were familiar to me, but others were not; stories of all of these individuals were powerful reminders of what our nation can achieve and stand for in the world. Booker is an engaging writer (and an especially good speaker, as I was reminded when I attended an event on his book tour) and a man I'm proud to have as one of my two US Senators.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book. Very personable and hopeful. I know part of this is going to be an upcoming campaign, but it really is an inspiring book. Lessons we all need to learn as Americans. I know we have a long way to go before the next presidential election season, but tis gives me a little hope. Damn to have an intelligent person that cares about people as president again!

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnificent

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

New Jersey senator Cory Booker weaves together powerful stories and personal reflections in this vision of a path forward for troubled times. Beautifully written.

[Elizabeth Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy listening to Corey Booker. He inspires hope and joy for the future.

[Karen Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This man should be president. So much wisdom & humility.

[Elizabeth Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Our adversaries know they can’t beat us tank for tank, or aircraft carrier for aircraft carrier, so they try to destabilize what makes our democracy strong: civic trust and a sense of common cause."


"Choosing to embrace humility does not ask us to abandon our anger or surrender our passion. It reminds us that there is a power in engagement that outrage alone cannot access. It is exactly in moments of crisis that the power of humility is needed most."


"I am deeply disturbed by the manipulation of patriotism. But I also worry about those who would walk away from American patriotism because others have wielded its distortion as a weapon. I believe patriotism at its best is a devotion to shared ideals and a devotion to one another."


"If we shame people for where they were instead of creating space for who they might become, then we’re simply seeking copies of who we think we are. If we offer no space for people to evolve, to change their minds, then we will never build a movement that transforms society. Shaming may feel righteous in the moment, but it rarely persuades. It hardens hearts. It closes doors. Transformation requires another way. We cannot cancel everyone who fails a purity test. We cannot exile those who don’t align with our every belief, however passionately we hold it. Coalitions that are only composed of the already converted cannot change the country. If everyone on your coalition agrees with you on everything, your coalition is too small— too small to make big change, and too small for what our democracy demands. And very importantly, when we deny the inevitable complexity of others, we deny it in ourselves. When we deny others the space to grow and evolve, we deny it to ourselves. We are all people in progress. To deny that truth makes you the obstacle to growth, healing, and redemption. I do not believe the path forward will be forged through arrogant oversimplification or contempt masquerading as clarity. Our democracy cannot be sustained by certainty. It requires humility."

[Bookworm · Rating 3 out of 5]

Like many others, I heard about Senator Booker's marathon speech in March/April 2025 and had assumed that this book would be about that. Instead, this is a book about the various shared ideals of the United States that bring us together. Through dark times and events of celebration, there are things we can all relate to and share.

Each chapter is a discussion of a specific value for leadership: agency to community to grace, etc. Within each chapters are discussion, his personal thoughts on these values, how he incorporates them into his work, how he has seen it in other people and/or how it has been demonstrated to him, etc. You probably will not be surprised by the various stories of people overcoming certain difficulties or barriers and/or demonstrate values, etc.

That's it. It really was not about his speech (and to be fair, those types of books can be very hit or miss) but in many ways it felt like an extension of what he was talking about. In times like this when there is a real lack of patriotism or humility or vision, it was refreshing to read his thoughts for what a more "normal" politician sees, expects, embodies, etc. Whether you agree with that or not is certainly up to you but it was very much a contrast of what is happening right now.

Is this book going to tell you anything new? I doubt it. I do not think it will change your mind about Booker either, like/love or hate, etc. I would guess that this is likely a book to both set him up for a higher office run (which he has before) so take this as you will.

Overall I liked it even if it came a bit dull and I realized that it is likely part of laying the ground work for ither higher office or a leadership role in the Senate, etc. But I like him and do think it would be worth reading for either when he does run for some other higher office/position or if you would like to be reminded of what our politicians could be.

Library borrow and that was best for me.

[Deidre M. Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Stand, Cory Booker frames the American Dream as a moral inheritance built on ten essential virtues—agency, vulnerability, patriotism, truth, humility, community, creativity, perseverance, grace, and vision. These virtues, interpreted as form the foundation of a shared national promise: that the American Dream is not about political ambition but about humble hopes passed from one generation to the next. It is the belief that security, dignity, and opportunity should expand so that children can rise higher than their parents. This moment is a generational turning point, where the torch is being passed and new leaders must rise not only to inherit influence but to renew purpose.

This renewal requires a new vision—one bold enough to meet the moment with imagination and courage. A new generation must carry forward the virtues that shaped the nation while also daring to reimagine what is possible. Stand describes once again believing in the promise that we can do big, bold, seemingly impossible things together. Through shared purpose and collective responsibility, the country can reclaim its confidence in a future shaped by unity, creativity, and moral conviction.

[Jeff Berman · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the many things I love about Cory Booker is he’s the same guy I met 32 years ago. Same amazing dad jokes. Same loyal friend. Same patriotic American. This isn’t your standard book from a politician. Cory uses the speech he made breaking segregationist Senator Strom Thurmond’s record for the longest ever made on the Senate floor as a jumping off point for a beautifully crafted portrait of where America has been to help us imagine where we can go.

Difficult as it may be to envision how we get out of the mess we’re in, Cory leads not just with faith and not just with optimism. He leans on history to prove the point. In perhaps my favorite section, he quotes legendary suffragist Alice Paul who said, “Nothing is impossible. It is only impossible if you have not done it.” His unwavering belief that the “impossible” is merely a barrier waiting for someone with enough virtue and determination to break through it inspires all of us to rise to the moment and be agents of the change we want to see.

Loved this. Highly recommend.

[Christopher · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a much better read than I expected. My expectation was a story explicitly about his desire to run for President. Yes, the underlying message is laying the ground for Presidency but, through the telling of his life story. It is well written. The stories of his family, his friends and himself are moving and enlightening.
It is a book about virtues. It is sad that some must explain why they are so worthy to run for office. They must provide moral clarity, experience and humor and then,maybe, we will consider them. Also, if you are a person of color or a woman, good lord, you and must prove you have super human characteristics. Then, there are the others who can lie, scheme and cheat their way and they are heroes. His story preaches forgiveness and hope.So, hope I will. The book offers a optimistic perspective of a future America that I am sure he wants to lead. Fate and time will tell. I found the book inspirational and a good read.

[Carol Brusegar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stand is an inspiring book by the great Senator Cory Booker. I cannot say it better than to quote historian Jon Meacham's comment on it: "With energy, insight, and a passion for the best of the American tradition, Cory Booker has issued a compelling and invaluable summons to what Lincoln called our 'better angels.'"

And from Henry Louis Gates Jr. of Harvard University: "Inspiring, moving and beautifully written, Stand is mandatory reading for all Americans who seek inspiration in a country and world beset by constant crisis."

"We are living through a time of crisis. The problems we face grow more serious, while our divisions continue to widen. But our history overflows with people who used the power of our foundational virtues to overcome impossible obstacles."

I highly recommend this powerful book.

[Thief of Pages (Ty) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This certainly was a timely and refreshing book. The biggest takeaway was in the form of a reminder. To remind Americans that the strength of our nation lies in kindness and decency. We need this reminder more than ever before so we don’t lose sight of it. America right now is unfortunately under attack from its own government. A very grave and dangerous threat to everything we hold dear. And as flawed as this country is and has always been, it’s still very much worth fighting for. To fight and defend against this corrupt tyrannical regime. A regime set on destroying democracy and all constitutional norms. A regime set on enriching themselves while draining the rest of us. We know what’s at stake so these next few years are going to be paramount in our defense. Prepare yourself wisely. Highly recommend you give this read. Happy reading!

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this book came about due to Cory Booker making his stand in Congress and becoming the longest speech on the floor in history, 25 hours and 5 minutes. It bothered him that Strom Thurmond held the record as he filibustered against Civil Rights. Booker instead wanted to cause “good trouble” and address the current threats to our democracy.

The book itself expands on that speech and shares stories with us about a number of virtues we should all have. It wants us to find ways to build our community and show up for each other and share our values. We need to love our nation and each other. Find common ground. Be creative, persevere, give grace.

Stand up for what we believe.

[Don · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part memoir, all inspiration. Booker outlines his stance of how we make it through our troubling political, social, and economic inequity times. We must make a personal stand, whether that is small or big, private or public. Using well written storytelling, he uses “virtues” as a start of each section: Agency, Vulnerability, Patriotism, Truth, Humility, Community, Creativity, Perseverance, Grace, and Vision. While Booker uses his own experience and actions, he leans more on the actions and experiences of others such as John Lewis, John McCain, Judge Salas, as well as his parents.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book of virtues reminded me of Pope Francis’s books of virtues, infused with Cory Booker’s life experience, stories and perspective. I’ve heard the story of how his parents purchased their New Jersey home several times but always enjoy hearing it again, even though it makes me emotional every time. This first chapter depicts a powerful example of the difference that one person can make, and these stories continue throughout.

[Marilyn Katz · Rating 5 out of 5]

In an age of negativity, lies, divisiveness,shouting and disrespectful political behavior, this book comes like a beacon of light. As I read this slender, well thought out volume, I felt my faith in America being restored. We have the ability to take back out country as we have done in the past. Not in a day,not by outselves, but over time and together as Americans listening to each other.
Senator Booker has impresses me for years and with this book, he continues to do so.

[S.L. Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many great stories of history and present featured in this book. As far as currently published political books go, this one is very... Upbeat and positive. Although talking about very important topics, the feature of important virtues and historical figures and events really spoke to me. I think this is a great book for formerly patriotic Americans who are not so much patriotic anymore due to current world events... And people who had way too much fun in history and law class (same).

[Andrea Brinkley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exactly what you would expect from Cory Booker. He outlines ten virtues we need in order to succeed as a nation. It feels good and right to hear this kind of talk from a leader. Kudos to him for fighting the fight in the trenches and still remaining a solid human being.
A great read if you’re looking for respite and hope in the current state of affairs.

[Steve · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cory Booker writes about virtue and presents what he means in 10 chapters: Agency, Vulnerability, Patriotism, Truth, Humility, Community, Creativeity, Perserverance, Grace, and Vision. As he discusses these topics he presents stories from his life in Newark. He writes very well with a sense of humor thrown in. I hope he continues his political career beyond US Senator.

[Casey Erdmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outlining ten values of a leader/an American, Booker reflects on historical figures and weaves stories of his own experiences to illustrate the importance of each. He weaves lesser known stories from American history, as well as the greatest hits in a very personal and inspiring way to call Americans into civic engagement.

[Daniel Hebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cory Booker just taught me so much about American history that I never knew. What a brilliant man and a great human being. It’s so inspiring to know that there are still some good men in government. I don’t care what your political views are but if more representatives were more like this man we would definitely make America proud again. If only for the history lesson; read this book.

[Lucy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Though I know this book was probably written as pre-presidential stump speech fodder, it was well thought out, inspirational & full of hope. (Did he write this or just “approve this message?”) My hope is that the message is sincere because we (as Americans) need a good dose of optimism. Keep it up, Senator.

[Derek Ouyang · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book increases my admiration for Booker, but also increases my worry about the viability of this style of political messaging in the upcoming election cycle. The risk with a virtue-based ethics, as opposed to, say, one focused on science and reason, is that it is vulnerable to exploitation by just about any actual position.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found in the pages of this book a wealth of wisdom. There was also more than I expected the exposure of what is tearing this country apart. But Cory Booker doesn’t leave us depressed about the problems. He points out the solutions, good people who won’t settle and suffer. I highly recommend this book. If you care you’ll want to work together towards the common cause for a better world.

[Lily Cohen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5. I thought this was a pretty good book as far as political memoirs go. Really engaging anecdotes that integrate storytelling into the lessons and advice that have clearly had profound impacts on Booker’s life.

[Linda K. Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a refreshing and timely book! Insightful and encouraging during a pivotal time for our

Democracy. Apathy cannot continue!!!! It is up to all of us to get involved and fight for our values. Freedom is not free!!!

[Angie Gascho · Rating 4 out of 5]

This month, my husband and I attended a Cory Booker event for the release of his new book, Stand. I’m not sure how I would define this book...it's not a memoir. It has “memoir” moments, but is really more an exploration of virtues through reflections, anecdotes, life experiences, and readings, with some politics sprinkled in. I tend to have mixed feelings about memoirs, particularly those written by people in the political or celebrity sphere. But I found the book to really be thought-provoking. I think if you're looking for a way to process this particular moment in history, this is a helpful and reflective read. I know it gave me plenty to think about, but it was also tempered with humor and some interesting real-life scenarios.