and thats why lucas screamed when the book was released and continues to insist it was full of lies. the personality cult was still in its infancy back in those days and lucas could not afford to be exposed.
if everyone knew that lucas could not care less about filmmaking quality, story, characters and the prequels were created strictly to consolidate and secure, TPM would have been as anticipated as a final destination sequel.
no different than lance armstrong making sure for 15 years his doping was kept absolute secret. it doesnt matter now - he got his millions and a legion of sycophants carefully cultivated.