Former President Joe Biden has reportedly finalized a deal with Hachette Book Group for his upcoming presidential memoir, securing an advance estimated at $10 million. The book is expected to chronicle his four years in office, from 2021 to 2025. This agreement positions Biden's memoir deal below those of several recent predecessors, sparking comparisons within the publishing industry.
The $10 million advance for Biden's memoir is notably less than the record-setting deals of other former Democratic presidents. Barack and Michelle Obama's joint book deal with Penguin Random House in 2017 reportedly fetched around $60 million. Similarly, former President Bill Clinton received a $15 million advance for his 2004 autobiography, "My Life," a figure that would be significantly higher when adjusted for inflation today.
Biden himself has indicated he is actively involved in the writing process, stating earlier this month that he was "working like hell" on the book. The memoir is anticipated to offer his perspective on key events and decisions during his presidency. Creative Artists Agency (CAA) represented Biden in brokering the deal with Hachette's Little, Brown & Co. imprint.
The timeline for the book's completion and publication remains uncertain, with no official release date announced. This uncertainty is partly attributed to the former president's health; Biden, 82, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer in May. His office has indicated that his ongoing treatment could influence the manuscript's delivery schedule.
Regarding the book's authorship, a rumor circulating on social media suggests the potential use of a ghostwriter. As stated in a tweet by Michael Mauldin, "> His use of a ghost writer is merely a rumor at this point. I heard the rumor from @ScottAdamsSays." However, official reports and statements from Hachette or Biden's representatives have not corroborated this rumor.