Turning Memoirs Into Millions: The Most Lucrative Presidential Book Deals Ever
U.S. presidents may leave office, but they rarely leave the public eye. And they certainly don’t stop making money: In fact, post-presidential memoirs have become a way for former leaders to reminisce on their experiences while building their net worth. While some memoirs are gripping tell-alls, others are straightforward historical accounts of their time in office. Regardless of the style, these books often rake in millions. Here are 10 of the most lucrative presidential book deals ever.
1. Barack and Michelle Obama: $65 Million
In 2017, the Obamas signed an incredible $65 million book deal with Random House. The deal stipulated that both Barack and Michelle would each write a book, though the book rights were sold jointly. Michelle’s memoir, “Becoming,” was released in November 2018; as of 2020, it had sold more than 14 million copies across the globe and is currently one of the best-selling memoirs of all time. Barack’s memoir, “A Promised Land,” was released in November 2020, and is the first volume of his presidential memoirs. A second volume will cover his second term and post-presidency.
2. Bill Clinton: $15 Million
Bill Clinton received a $15 million advance from Knopf for his memoir, “My Life,” making it one of the highest-paid presidential book deals at the time. The memoir spans his upbringing in Arkansas, his political rise, and his two terms as president. For those looking for more juicy details, it also addresses the scandals that shaped his time in office. The book sold over 2.2 million copies worldwide.
3. George W. Bush: $10 Million
George W. Bush earned a $10 million advance for his memoir, “Decision Points,” which offers an inside look at key moments from his presidency, including the September 11 attacks, the Iraq War, and Hurricane Katrina. The 2010 memoir became a bestseller, selling over 2 million copies in its first few months
4. Hillary Clinton: $14 Million
Sure, Hillary Clinton never became president, but it’s worth noting that the 2016 Democratic nominee’s post-State Department memoir, “Hard Choices,” earned her a sizable $14 million advance. The 2014 book delves into her time as Secretary of State and the global challenges she faced during her tenure; it was well-received and topped bestseller lists.
5. Ronald Reagan: $7 Million
Ronald Reagan’s 1990 memoir, “An American Life,” brought him a $7 million advance, which was a record for former presidents at the time. In the book, Reagan reflects on his career in Hollywood, his time as California’s governor, and his two terms as president. The memoir became a bestseller, cementing Reagan’s post-presidential legacy.
6. Jimmy Carter: $7 Million
Jimmy Carter has been one of the most prolific writers among former presidents, earning around $7 million from his various books. His 1982 memoir, “Keeping Faith,” was an in-depth look at his time in the Oval Office, including the hostage crisis in Iran, meeting with world leaders, and his own personal relationships. The former president turned 100 on October 1, 2024, and has authored over 30 books.
7. Richard Nixon: $2.5 Million
Following his resignation, Richard Nixon’s memoir, “RN: The Memoirs of Richard Nixon,” earned him a $2.5 million advance. If you want a juicy read, this book is it: The memoir covers his political rise, the Watergate scandal, and his resignation from the presidency. Despite the controversies surrounding his tenure, the memoir sold well, in part because of its historical significance.
8. Lyndon B. Johnson: $1.6 Million
Lyndon B. Johnson’s 1971 memoir, “The Vantage Point,” earned him a $1.6 million advance (not too shabby!). The book details his ascent to the presidency following the assassination of John F. Kennedy and his efforts to pass civil rights legislation and fight the Vietnam War.
9. Gerald Ford: $1 Million
Gerald Ford earned a $1 million advance for his memoir, “A Time to Heal,” where he discusses his time in office following the resignation of Richard Nixon and his controversial decision to pardon Nixon. The 1979 book also offers insight into Ford’s efforts to restore trust in the presidency.
10. Ulysses S. Grant: $450,000
Ulysses S. Grant’s 1885 book, “Personal Memoirs,” was published posthumously by Mark Twain’s publishing company. Grant secured $450,000 for his family, which would have been upwards of $14 million today. The book covers his military career during the Civil War and his presidency, and is one of the most beloved presidential memoirs ever written.