Barack and Michelle Obama to write books for Penguin

Penguin Random House announced Tuesday that former US President Barack Obama and former first lady, Michelle, have signed book deals with the publishing company. Financial terms were not disclosed.

The Associated Press shares a statement from the publisher. Penguin CEO Markus Dohle said they are absolutely thrilled to continue their publishing partnership with the former POTUS and FLOTUS for these two individuals have changed the world.

Penguin recognises that the Obamas have changed the world with their words and leadership. The company said they strive to do the same, every day, through the books that they publish. “Now, we are very much looking forward to working together with President and Mrs. Obama to make each of their books global publishing events of unprecedented scope and significance,” the statement reads.

Robert Barnett and Deneen Howell of Williams & Connolly have represented the couple for the negotiations. Barnett previously worked on deals with Obama's two predecessors, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.

Fox News notes that the deal is likely worth tens of millions of dollars. The Obamas intend to give a "significant portion" of their author proceeds to the Obama Foundation and other charitable organisations. The publication has learned that the deal is for books that are among the most anticipated in memory from a former president and first lady.

The former POTUS has written million-selling books in the past, such as “Dreams from My Father" and "The Audacity of Hope." He is regarded as one of the finest prose stylists among previous American leaders.

His wife had also written a book too which was titled "American Grown,” a book about gardening, released in 2012. The recent deal with Penguin Random House is expected to tell more about her time as first lady.

Titles and release dates for the books from the Obamas are yet to be officially announced. A publishing official who was said to have knowledge about the deal reportedly spilled that the book will be a straightforward memoir about the presidency of Obama. The former FLOTUS, on the other hand, plans to write an inspirational work for young people. This particular detail has not been confirmed by Penguin Random House.

Books written by former presidents before Obama made significant contributions to the literary canon. Bill Clinton's "My Life" and George W. Bush's "Decision Points" were both million sellers. Books by first ladies, which include Hillary Clinton's "Living History," have been dependable best-sellers too.