In recent times, questions have emerged regarding President Joe Biden's activities post-presidency.
While he has been spotted enjoying leisurely walks on the beach and occasionally engaging in public discourse, Biden has also ventured into a familiar territory for former presidents: the literary world. His representatives at Creative Artists Agency have secured a book deal with Hachettes Little, Brown & Co., reportedly valued at around $10 million, as noted by the Wall Street Journal.
This figure, while substantial to many, falls short when compared to the lucrative deals secured by some of Biden's predecessors. According to Western Journal, the New York Post described this amount as an "embarrassing blow" to Biden. For instance, former President Bill Clinton received $15 million for his memoir "My Life" in 2004, while Barack and Michelle Obama negotiated a staggering $60 million deal with Penguin Random House in 2017.
President Donald Trump, known for his business acumen, has authored several books, including the well-known "The Art of the Deal," though he has yet to publish a memoir following his presidency.
The Wall Street Journal highlights that memoirs often serve as a significant income source for former presidents and their spouses, while also allowing them to shape their legacies. Although no publication date has been set for Biden's memoir, he has expressed his dedication to the project, stating he is "working my tail off" on the manuscript. The book is expected to cover his tenure as president and his eight years as vice president under the Obama administration.
However, skepticism surrounds Biden's ability to produce a comprehensive memoir, given recent discussions about his cognitive health. Critics have questioned how an "elderly man with a poor memory" could effectively compile such a work.
Social media platform X has seen comments like, "How does a man w/poor memory write a memoir? Maybe theyll call it The Malarkey Memoir. Sean Spicer, former White House Press Secretary during President Trump's administration, also expressed doubt. Spicer remarked on X, "Joe Biden is reportedly getting a $10 million book advance (for a book he wont write or likely read)," and speculated on the book's commercial viability, noting, "To BREAK EVEN they would have to sell a minimum of 350,000 copies. NOT. A. CHANCE."
The potential for a publicity tour remains uncertain, particularly in light of Biden's recent health challenges. Earlier this year, he disclosed a diagnosis of an aggressive form of prostate cancer, raising questions about his capacity to engage in extensive promotional activities. As the situation develops, observers will be keen to see how Biden navigates this new chapter in his post-presidential life.
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