Olivia Nuzzi’s new memoir, “American Canto,” debuted amid significant discussion in political and journalism circles. The book’s release surprisingly coincided with low sales figures, which have drawn attention in the wake of her recent controversies.
Background on Olivia Nuzzi
Nuzzi, formerly a star writer for New York Magazine, faced professional upheaval after it was revealed she had an affair with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The affair allegedly did not become physical, but it caused ripples within her career. Kennedy later became the Secretary of Health and Human Services under Donald Trump. Following these events, Nuzzi’s profile took a hit, often described as experiencing “exile” from the industry.
Re-emergence and Book Launch
Eleven months later, Nuzzi resurfaced as the West Coast editor for Vanity Fair. Shortly thereafter, she secured a feature in The New York Times, showcasing her vibrant life in California. This marked the announcement of her upcoming memoir, “American Canto.”
Controversial Excerpts and Media Buzz
An excerpt from the book surfaced in Vanity Fair, coinciding with intense public scrutiny fueled by her ex-fiancé, Ryan Lizza. Lizza, a political reporter and a former contributor to CNN, accused Nuzzi of various improprieties via Substack posts, heightening public intrigue.
Sales Performance and Reception
Despite the sensational context surrounding “American Canto,” its sales struggled upon release. At a Barnes & Noble store in Midtown Manhattan, only seven copies were available in the “New & Notable” section. In a nearby independent bookstore, no copies had sold by mid-afternoon, despite expectations.
- Sales Figures: Hardcover edition ranked No. 6,709 on Amazon.
- Library Interest: 33 total patrons waiting for the four electronic copies at Brooklyn Public Library.
Market Competition
The political memoir market has been mixed this year. While titles like Kamala Harris’ “107 Days” gained traction, others like John Fetterman’s “Unfettered” reportedly performed poorly. The release of “American Canto” unexpectedly coincided with a winter storm in the Northeast, potentially influencing reader turnout and sales.
Industry Perspectives
Despite the lack of consumer interest, discussions about Nuzzi persisted among bookstore staff. They were captivated by her story, reflecting a curious blend of fascination and sympathy. One bookseller compared following Nuzzi’s dramatic journey to witnessing a “car crash,” expressing that while he may not read her memoir, he admired her efforts.
Nuzzi’s challenge lies not only in an oversaturated genre but also in competing for attention against celebrities like Britney Spears and popular fiction authors. The contrasting public curiosity and purchasing reluctance underscores a complex dynamic in the current literary landscape.
