Former US president Joe Biden said on Sunday, November 8, that cancer sometimes slows him down and means he will have fewer conversations about his upcoming memoir than he had hoped. Promise Me, America is scheduled for release on November 17. Biden did not specify how many conversations he expects to hold or when they will take place.

Biden was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that had spread to his bones in May 2025. He said he received the diagnosis while writing the book and that his doctors remain encouraged by his response to treatment. He also said the illness has not stopped him, though it sometimes slows him down.

The memoir covers Biden’s four years in the White House, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the aftermath of the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, domestic legislation and global diplomacy. It also discusses his decision to seek re-election and his later choice to end his 2024 bid, including the personal deliberations behind that decision.

Biden has described the book as an account of the challenges and decisions of his presidency, as well as America’s role in the world. He also recalled his father’s advice to get up after being knocked down, which Biden said was a lesson for both him and the country.