Former US President Joe Biden has announced that his presidential memoir, Promise Me, America, will be released on November 17, while sharing a personal update on his cancer treatment and its impact on his public engagements.
In a message to the American people, Biden said the book would reflect on his years in the White House, including the challenges his administration faced, the decisions he made and the reasons behind them.
He said the memoir would also explore America's national identity, democratic values and role in global affairs, while expressing his continued belief in the American people and the country's system of self-governance.
Biden described the book as a reflection of what the United States stands for, saying its founding idea of equality remains central to the country's identity.
The announcement also provided an update on his health following his cancer diagnosis, which he said came while he was working on the memoir.
The former president said his doctors remained encouraged by his response to treatment, although he acknowledged that some days were more difficult than others.
He thanked those who had sent prayers, messages of support and well wishes, saying the gestures had meant a great deal to him, his wife Jill and their family.
Biden added that the illness had not stopped him from continuing with his work, but sometimes slowed him down.
As a result, he said he would not be able to take part in as many interviews and public conversations about the memoir as he had initially planned.
Despite the reduced schedule, Biden expressed hope that the book would communicate his experiences and reflections without requiring extensive public appearances.
He also recalled advice from his father, who encouraged him to rise again whenever life knocked him down.
“When you get knocked down, get up,” Biden quoted his father as saying, describing the message as an important lesson for both himself and the country.
Reflecting on America's identity, the former president said the country was built around an idea rather than simply its territory or military strength.
He described equality as the principle that holds the nation together, arguing that the belief that all people are created equal is stronger than any army, dictator or tyrant.
Biden ended his message with an appeal to Americans to remain committed to that founding principle, urging them not to forget the values on which their country was established.
The memoir is expected to offer readers his personal account of his presidency, the major decisions made during his time in office and his views on America's place in the world.
