In a move that surprised no one, HarperCollins has just announced that they have signed a book deal with Alaska governor, and 2008 vice-presidential hopeful, Sarah Palin.
What's even more unsurprising is that the GOP's little darling won't be writing it by herself; she will be working with a collaborator but says that she plans to write most of it herself, compiled from journals that she kept during her year of campaigning.
One can only assume that the collaborator will be on board to translate the stick-figure drawings into a manageable narrative.
Palin intends to utilize her much-vaunted journalism degree to tell her story "unrestrained and unfiltered." Never mind that the journalism major, when questioned by Katie Couric about the newspapers she reads, responded with "All of 'em, any of 'em that have been in front of me over all these years." She hopes that the book will be a clearing of the air around herself and her a family; an opportunity to let the people know who she really is. Well, I have news for you, sweetheart. Most of America is pretty well-informed about who and what you are. You're not an impenetrable mystery. In fact, I would venture to say that you're alarmingly transparent.
While news of the book deal is flying through the publishing wire, what we don't know yet is just how much Ms. Palin is going to bank off of this deal. Rumors have stated figures as high as $11 million but these have been dismissed by both Palin and HarperCollins. What's more interesting is that HarperCollins is owned by Rupert Murdoch, who also owns that bastion of the GOP, Fox News. Can we assume that Fox News will lead the media blitz when this little gem hits the shelves?
"I just really look forward to being able to relate to people through this book, those who are anxious to hear stories about people who are facing similar challenges perhaps," Palin told the Anchorage Daily News.
Indeed Sarah, we are most anxious to hear about the challenges you have faced; challenges that you have faced with a brave little heart and a beauty queen smile. Joe Six Pack is waiting for your words.