Former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has signed a deal to publish a 'revealing, intimate and important memoir'.
Following a bidding war, worldwide rights to the book were won by Sandycove, the Dublin-based imprint of global publishing giant Penguin Random House.
"I have the freedom now to say things I could not while holding office," Mr Varadkar said in a statement, "and I have enough distance to reflect on the mistakes I made as much as what was achieved."
Leo Varadkar resigned his post earlier this year, along with the leadership of the Fine Gael party, having been Ireland's youngest Taoiseach when he took office in 2017. He also announced his retirement from politics after the next Irish general election.
A press release announcing the deal says that the book will 'give readers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the formation and evolution of a senior politician', giving readers readers "insights into experiences that only a Taoiseach could have".
The publishing deal was negotiated by UK literary agent Max Edwards.
Absolutely delighted that @LeoVaradkar's memoir will be published by @PenguinIEBooks, in what is @AppleTreeLit’s first deal. One of the most important politicians in recent times, Varadkar’s legacy and impact on Ireland and beyond is incredible https://t.co/aZAkjI9WJL
— Max Edwards (@OneChapterMore) September 9, 2024
The book will reportedlly address a number of key mements in Mr Varadkar's career to date, from conversations with the Pope about the legacy of church abuses and his connection with former US President Barack Obama, to the challenges presented by the Covid pandemic and the UK's exit from the European Union.
"I am really enjoying writing my story," Leo Varadkar says, "and I was keen to do so while it was still fresh in my head. It's as much a personal memoir as it is a book about political history. There is so much people know already about my time at the top but almost as much that they don't.
Leo Varadkar follows in the path of former Taoisigh Albert Reynolds and Bertie Ahern, both of whom published autobiographies following their time in office.
Sandycove publisher Michael McLoughlin said: "Leo Varadkar is one of Ireland's most significant and interesting politicians and his frankness will make this a must-read for anyone with an interest in the modern political landscape."
The as-yet-untitled book will be published in Autumn 2025.
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