Boris Johnson’s highly anticipated memoir, Unleashed, is already causing a stir, but not in the way the former prime minister might have hoped. Early reviews of the book, set to hit shelves soon, have been overwhelmingly critical, with many branding it self-indulgent and lacking in substance.
Published by HarperCollins, Unleashed promises an “honest, unrestrained, and deeply revealing” account of Johnson’s time as mayor of London and prime minister. The publisher describes it as a memoir that “shatters the mould” of political autobiography, showcasing Johnson’s signature style of writing. According to HarperCollins, this book offers the reality as Johnson sees it—”unvarnished, uncensored, and unleashed.”
However, early reviews tell a different story. Critics have not held back, with many accusing the memoir of being self-serving. The Independent remarked, “No Narcissus ever stared more intently into the limpid waters of self-love,” while The Times noted that Johnson avoids “introspection or penetrating insight” in favour of maintaining his “cartoonish image.” The Guardian was equally harsh, branding the book “Memoirs of a clown.”
Comparisons to Other Political Memoirs
Adding to the intrigue around Unleashed is the hefty advance Johnson received for his efforts. At £510,000, the sum is far greater than the £7,674 advance given to his successor, Liz Truss, for her memoir 10 Years To Save The West, which was released in April. Truss’s book covers her brief and tumultuous time as prime minister, but it did not receive the same level of fanfare—or criticism—as Johnson’s.
Despite the attention, Johnson remains confident about his memoir’s impact. In a statement about the upcoming release, he said, “I am honoured that HarperCollins is publishing my personal account of the huge realignment that took place in UK politics over the last 15 years—and what may lie ahead.” In typical Johnson fashion, he added, “So stand by for my thoughts on Britain’s future to explode over the publishing world like a much-shaken bottle of champagne.”
Social Media Reaction
On social media, the response to Unleashed has been similarly unenthusiastic. Users have taken to platforms like Twitter to share their disappointment, with many echoing the views of professional critics. Terms like “self-obsessed” and “out of touch” have frequently appeared in discussions about the book, highlighting a growing divide between Johnson and much of the public.
Whether Unleashed will redeem itself in the eyes of readers once it hits shelves remains to be seen, but early indications suggest it may struggle to live up to its bold claims.
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