'Shocking' book about Putin's private life wins new French literary prize
The book, titled 'The Tsar in Propria Persona: How Vladimir Putin Deceived Us All,' draws on more than two decades of investigative reporting by journalists Roman Badanin and Mikhail Rubin.
A contentious book exploring Vladimir Putin's private life and ascent to power, penned by two Russian exiles, emerged victorious in a newly created French literary competition on Tuesday. "The Tsar in Propria Persona: How Vladimir Putin Deceived Us All," co-authored by Roman Badanin and Mikhail Rubin, drew upon over two decades of investigative journalism to paint a shockingly vivid portrait of the Russian leader.
The book, set to be released in France next month, was hailed by the jurors as "a spellbinding and troubling narrative" about a man who himself is "intriguing and shocking." The jury emphasized the book's "resemblance to a spy novel" and noted that it draws on "hundreds of interviews with witnesses, some of whom have since met with tragic ends."
Badanin, the founder and editor-in-chief of Proekt, an investigative media outlet founded in 2018, and Rubin, his deputy, now reside in the United States following pressure from Russia. Badanin stressed that the authors' intention was to enlighten Western readers with "the actual facts" about Putin and the system he has cultivated.
He emphasized, "There is no need to fabricate anything about Putin. Instead, learn the truth, which is horrifying enough." The authors warned that only a thorough understanding of the facts enables informed assessments, effective responses, and informed planning for future international relations. When the book's Russian release last year, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) recognized Badanin and Rubin for defying a Kremlin-imposed taboo regarding Putin's private life "at substantial personal risk."
The book starkly contrasts the official image of Putin, who has presided over Russia for 26 years as a champion of traditional values against Western decadence, with the stark reality of his personal life - marked by extramarital affairs, nepotism, and ties to organized crime. The Prix Strasbourg, launched in 2026, distinguishes itself through a substantial endowment of €20,000 awarded to the overall winner, with €55,000 distributed across all categories. Previous winners include Haitian author Thelyson Orelien and French journalist Marion Dubreuil.
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