Palins sign books at Mall of America

Sarah Palin, Briston Palin
Bristol Palin, right, and her mother, former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, signed their books at the Mall of America Wednesday, June 29, 2011 in Bloomington, Minn.
Jim Mone/AP

Security was tight as Sarah Palin helped her daughter kick off a book tour at Mall of America.

Both Bloomington police and mall security were on hand Wednesday as the former Alaska governor and Republican vice-presidential candidate appeared with Bristol Palin at a joint book-signing.

Customers had to pass through a checkpoint before getting the two to sign copies of their latest books.

The mall estimates about 1,500 people turned out and that the Palins did about 700 autographs.

Bristol Palin's memoir, "Not Afraid of Life," came out last week and Wednesday is her first public event.

Sarah Palin's "America by Heart" was released last fall. HarperCollins imprints published both books.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.