Bill Clinton’s soon-to-be bestseller, “My Life,” is already causing a stir. Clinton’s publisher announced yesterday that the book will be on the shelves in late June, though an exact publication data hasn’t been set.
Sonny Mehta, president and editor-in-chief of Alfred A. Knopf, is already doing a fine job generating hype.
“Bill Clinton tells an extraordinary story in ‘My Life,’ ” Mehta said in a statement. “It is a riveting personal drama as well as a fascinating look at the American political arena over the past four decades. He talks with candor about his successes, as well as his setbacks, looking at both his career in public service and his life. It is the fullest and most nuanced account of a presidency ever written, and one of the most revealing and remarkable memoirs I have ever had the honor of publishing.”
Of course, from a political perspective, a lot of Dems are worried about the timing of the release. The Democratic National Convention is in July and no one wants the former president overshadowing John Kerry. That’s understandable; Clinton’s book and accompanying tour will generate a lot of attention.
There was some talk that the book was slated for a July release, though I suspect it was pushed up to accommodate Kerry’s concerns. That’s the right call, inasmuch as Clinton’s book shouldn’t step on the Dems’ toes. That said, I have a different idea about when “My Life” should come out. I’m thinking, say, August 29.
I’m certain Clinton wouldn’t want to do anything to hurt Kerry; releasing his book anytime around the DNC would obviously be a major distraction. But with that in mind, wouldn’t it be great to see Clinton’s book release coincide with the Republican National Convention?
Just as the GOP would be gearing up for a carefully-scripted performance, hoping to generate as much positive attention as possible for the incumbent, Clinton could unveil his bestseller and start dominating the news again. Rove, Mehlman, and Co. would probably break out in hives.
Kerry probably won’t be getting much news during the RNC anyway. I say, let Clinton stick it to the GOP one last time.