The publication on Tuesday of Hilary Clinton’s newest book, “Hard Choices” has caused a great deal of interest and discussion on all fronts. Of course, most see her book as a prelude to a run for the presidency in 2016. Accompanying the actual publication of the book is a cover story in “People” magazine, wall-to-wall interviews on television, and a cross-country book tour. In the literary world the more publicity, the better for potential sales.
The NYT’s Op-Ed page on Sunday, June 8, featured two articles on Clinton, which, of course, mentioned the book. Ross Douthat, representing the political right, said that this political memoir, like most, will be “chloroform in print.” His piece wasn’t so much about the book itself, but what the Republicans have to do to stop Hilary.
Nicholas Kristof, representing liberal thinking, focused on Hilary Clinton as secretary of state. Her book focuses on her career and her decisions at the Department of State. In his judgment, she achieved a great deal in this role.
Michiko Kakutani reviewed the book on Sunday, June 8. She judged the book to be ” a subtle, finely calibrated work that provides a portrait of the former secretary of state….as a heavy-duty political wonk.” The book has some important aims that would all boost Clinton’s chance of winning the presidency. Kakutani writes that it “documents Mrs. Clinton’s tenure as secretary of state,” helps to put her 2008 presidential campaign in the past; “helps to supplant memories of her tumultuous days as first lady'” and creates “images of her negotiating with leaders on the world stage.”
Of course, the book will help keep Mrs. Clinton very visible. Whether people will actually be curious enough to want to read this 635 page tome, only time will tell.