Literary Benchmarks: Supreme Court Justices Cash In on Book Deals
Several U.S. Supreme Court justices are making headlines not for their rulings—but for their royalties. The 2024 financial disclosures, released this week, reveal significant book-related earnings by members of the bench, spotlighting a growing trend among justices leveraging their high-profile roles to publish memoirs, legal analyses, and even children’s books.
Justice Jackson’s Blockbuster Memoir Deal
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson leads the pack with her forthcoming memoir, Lovely One (Random House). In her latest disclosure, Jackson reported $2,068,750 in advances for the title—adding to the $893,750 she recorded in 2023 when the deal was first announced. If the figures reflect partial payments on a multi-installment contract, her total advance could be even higher. The memoir is expected to explore her historic journey as the first Black woman on the Supreme Court.
Sotomayor’s Publishing Empire Continues
Justice Sonia Sotomayor has long been active in the publishing world. Following her 2014 memoir, she has authored several children’s books that promote inclusion and empowerment. Her next title, Just Shine! (Philomel), is due in September. In 2023, she earned more than $130,000 in advances and royalties—evidence of her continued resonance with young readers and educators alike.
Gorsuch’s Legal Reflections Pay Off
Justice Neil Gorsuch also saw significant book income, disclosing about $250,000 in royalties. His most recent work, Over Ruled: The Human Toll of Too Much Law (Harper), adds to a growing list of titles in which he critiques legal overreach and explores the human impact of jurisprudence.
Barrett and Kavanaugh: Books in the Wings
Justice Amy Coney Barrett did not report new book-related income in 2024, but her advance of $425,000 from 2021 signals a project in progress. Her long-awaited book is set to debut in September. Justice Brett Kavanaugh, by contrast, reported no book income, nor has he publicly disclosed a current publishing deal