Former President Biden’s Upcoming Memoir ‘Promise Me, America’

Former President Joseph R. Biden Jr. recently announced his upcoming memoir titled Promise Me, America, set to be released on November 17, shortly after the midterm elections this fall. In a video posted on social media, Mr. Biden shared insights into the book’s topics, which will include his presidency’s challenges, such as handling the coronavirus pandemic, managing the economy, and addressing conflicts in Afghanistan and Ukraine.

The memoir will also delve into the efforts to restore democracy following the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol by supporters of former President Trump. Mr. Biden provided a glimpse into one of the pivotal themes of the book: his decision to run for re-election and subsequently step aside. He emphasized the idea of faith in America’s promise as central to the narrative.

At 83, Mr. Biden has kept a low profile since leaving office nearly 18 months ago. However, his family remains in the public eye. His wife, Jill Biden, published her memoir last month, while his son, Hunter Biden, actively defends the family’s legacy through social media and podcast appearances.

Mr. Biden inadvertently disclosed his book’s existence during his wife’s book tour last month, mentioning a September release. This revelation caused unease among Democrats focused on regaining congressional control during the midterms. Mr. Biden’s decision to run for re-election, despite declining poll numbers and preferences for a younger president, continues to stir mixed feelings within the party.

The memoir’s title, Promise Me, America, pays homage to Mr. Biden’s 2017 memoir, Promise Me, Dad, which reflected on his bond with his late son, Beau, who passed away from brain cancer while Biden was vice president. In his social media announcement, Mr. Biden is seen in his home office, mentioning time spent with family and undergoing treatment for a cancer diagnosis.

Reid J. Epstein reports on campaigns and elections from Washington for the Times.