Since being announced as former President Donald Trump’s VP pick on July 15, JD Vance’s book “Hillbilly Elegy” has experienced an extraordinary surge in sales. The memoir, which recounts Vance’s challenging upbringing in Middletown, Ohio, has resonated deeply with readers across the nation, particularly those from working-class backgrounds.
According to the New York Times, the book has sold over 750,000 copies since Vance’s vice-presidential nomination. In the week ending July 20, “Hillbilly Elegy” sold approximately 200,000 paperback copies, a dramatic increase from the mere 1,500 copies sold the previous week. Audiobook sales have also seen a significant boost, further cementing the book’s widespread appeal.
“Hillbilly Elegy” provides a raw and poignant look into Vance’s life, detailing his struggles and triumphs growing up in a poor, rural community. The book offers a broader commentary on the socio-economic challenges faced by the white working class in America, often overlooked by mainstream narratives. Vance’s candid portrayal of his family’s hardships and his journey to overcome them has struck a chord with many readers, particularly those from what are often dismissed as “flyover states.”
The book’s renewed popularity also highlights the ongoing relevance of Vance’s story. In 2016, Rod Dreher’s article in the American Conservative, “Hillbilly America: Do White Lives Matter?” featuring an interview with Vance, garnered massive attention and crashed the site due to the high volume of traffic. This underscores the continued interest in the issues Vance discusses and their impact on American society.
Vance’s rise on the bestseller list is not just a literary success but also a political statement. His nomination as Trump’s running mate has brought his story and the struggles of the working class to the forefront of national discourse. As the 2024 election approaches, Vance’s personal narrative and its connection to broader socio-economic issues could play a significant role in shaping voter perceptions and choices.
