Publishing giant Hachette acquired the rights to former US president Joe Biden's memoir in an auction on 23/7, with Biden receiving an advance of approximately USD 10 million, the Wall Street Journal reported.

The book, which does not yet have a release date, will focus on Biden's time in the White House. The New York Times described it as "an opportunity for the former president to recount his term and address questions surrounding his leadership." Biden has mentioned the book at recent events, stating he is working diligently to complete the manuscript despite health challenges.

Former US President Joe Biden at an event in New Castle, Delaware, on 30/5. Photo: Reuters

Former US President Joe Biden at an event in New Castle, Delaware, on 30/5. Photo: Reuters

Large advances for presidential memoirs are not uncommon due to their potential for high sales and symbolic value. Former US president Barack Obama and Michelle Obama set a record in 2017, selling the rights to their books, "A Promised Land" (2020) and "Becoming" (2018), for USD 60 million. Bill Clinton reportedly received a similar amount for his 2004 memoir, "My Life." However, the market for political books has cooled since 2024, according to the Wall Street Journal, making Biden's USD 10 million advance a relatively modest sum.

Biden previously published the memoir "Promise Me, Dad: A Year of Hope, Hardship, and Purpose." The book chronicled 2015, a pivotal year in his life as he served as vice president under Barack Obama while his son, Beau, battled brain cancer. The book resonated with the public and became a New York Times bestseller.

Joe Biden, born in 1942, full name Joseph Robinette Biden Jr., served as the 46th president of the US from 2021 to 2025. He is a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor.

Chau Anh (according to the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post)