REPORTAGE
On the eve of a book signing, the Charlemagne Bookstore in downtown Toulon is always busy. By phone or at the counter, everyone wonders what time to come. Two hours in advance minimum, advises one to these customers, eager to come to see the new star of literary sales: Nicolas Sarkozy.
The former president, whose huge picture is displayed on the shop window, is expected Tuesday at 15 hours to sign Passions . His latest book, which traces his rise from his RPR debut until he came to power, has already passed 213,000 copies since its release in late June. Of which at least four only for Anne, came to the Charlemagne bookstore to buy three new copies to distribute around her. "It's someone I like, we want to hear from him," says La Toulonnaise. "A temperament like his, it's missing, he was concerned, it's missing, the people involved." Anne would not miss the book signing for anything in the world. "There are some who went to see Johnny Hallyday, I'm Nicolas Sarkozy, everyone his thing."
"Not even need advertising, it sells itself"
The former president, it's not too much the trick of Nicolas on the other hand. "These are not my ideas." But the young man "still a little traveled" Passions . "There is always this curiosity: with its juxtaposition, its charisma, its energy, one sees the book and one will have a look."
Passion or curiosity, whatever it is, please. Sophie, the bookseller, points to her empty three-quarter display. "We've sold 194 copies since the end of June, so you do not even need advertising, it sells on your own." And this, well beyond Toulon. A new edition of 40,000 copies would be provided.