Missing Perspectives’ founder to release debut book on political chiefs of staff
Penguin will publish The Right Hand by Missing Perspectives founder Phoebe Saintilan-Stocks this November.
The announcement:
What happens when you sit down with the people who are the right hands to some of the most defining world leaders of our time?
The Right Hand, the debut book from Missing Perspectives founder Phoebe Saintilan-Stocks, explores the role of the political chief of staff – one of the most influential, yet least understood positions in public life. The book will be published by Penguin this November.
Often described as strategists, gatekeepers, best friends and closest confidantes, chiefs of staff are the ones working behind the scenes to help keep governments, and leaders, functioning. In The Right Hand, Saintilan-Stocks interviews the right hands of some of the world’s most recognisable leaders.
From Kamala Harris and Jacinda Ardern, to John Howard, Sanna Marin, Nelson Mandela, Tony Blair and Julia Gillard – and more, the book offers insights into the people who helped shape major moments in political history. Full of candid reflections and behind-the-scenes stories, The Right Hand explores what it means to support a leader through the highs and lows of public life.
“This book started with a simple question: who are the right hands of our world leaders?” Saintilan-Stocks says. “What followed were unforgettable conversations that offered a different perspective on leadership, loyalty, and the people who make things happen from just offstage.”
“Being a big admirer of Phoebe and her brilliant work with Missing Perspectives and a political wonk, The Right Hand is the exact book I want to have on hand, always. I am one happy publisher. All at Penguin are thrilled to partner with Phoebe Saintilan-Stocks as she begins her book publishing career,” says Meredith Curnow, publisher at Penguin Random House.
As the founder of Missing Perspectives – a platform dedicated to young female storytelling – Saintilan-Stocks brings her commitment to depth, nuance and strong storytelling to the page. Missing Perspectives is currently reaching 3.5M+ people a month, with the startup’s women’s sports show Momentum being picked up by Binge and Kayo Sports.
At a time when trust in politics is being questioned around the world, The Right Hand is a timely look at the people who help keep things moving, often without any public recognition.
The Right Hand will be published by Penguin Random House Australia on 4 November 2025, and will be available in Trade Paperback, eBook and Audiobook. RRP: $36.99.
Source: Missing Perspectives
