NEW YORK - That was fast.

Sarah Palin, the former Alaska governor and vice presidential candidate, has finished her memoir just four months after the book deal was announced, and the release date has been moved up from the spring to Nov. 17, her publisher said.

"Governor Palin has been unbelievably conscientious and hands-on at every stage, investing herself deeply and passionately in this project," said Jonathan Burnham, publisher of Harper.

Palin's book, her first, will be 400 pages, said Burnham, who called the fall "the best possible time for a major book of this kind."

The book now has a title, one fitting for a public figure known for the unexpected -- "Going Rogue: An American Life." During last year's campaign, pundits questioned whether Palin hurt Sen. John McCain's presidential bid by "going rogue," or defying his campaign's control.

Harper, an imprint of HarperCollins, has commissioned a first printing of 1.5 million copies. Sen. Ted Kennedy's "True Compass," published by Twelve soon after his Aug. 25 death, also had a first printing of 1.5 million.

"Going Rogue" will not be available as an e-book until Dec. 26 because the publisher wants to maximize hardcover sales over the holidays.

ASSOCIATED PRESS