NPR pundit axed over Muslim remark has 2-book deal

[December 15, 2010]  NEW YORK (AP) -- The commentator fired by National Public Radio in October for his remarks about Muslims has a deal to write two books.

Crown Publishers announced Tuesday the first book by Juan Williams will "focus on free speech and the growing difficulty in America of speaking out on sensitive topics."

Williams was let go by NPR after saying on the Fox News Channel he gets nervous when he sees on a plane people with clothing that identifies them as Muslim.

NPR said his remarks violated its standards of not having on-air personnel giving opinions. Williams said he was hurt by the suggestion he's a bigot.

Williams' first book is due this summer. It's currently untitled.

Crown is an imprint of Random House Inc.

[Associated Press]

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