Sally Rooney and her publisher Faber announced that her novels will no longer be sold in the United Kingdom due to her support for Palestine Action, a group banned under UK terrorism legislation. Faber stated that current legislation prevents it from paying royalties to Rooney, who pledged to donate book sale proceeds to the banned group, making continued sales legally untenable. Rooney confirmed her agreement with the decision following consultation.
The withdrawal affects best-selling novels like “Normal People” and “Conversations with Friends,” both adapted for TV. Palestine Action was banned in 2025 for property damage, not violence, marking the first use of terrorism powers for such grounds, drawing criticism from human rights groups. Over 3,000 people have been arrested for supporting the group at peaceful protests, sparking debate over free speech.
Rooney reiterated her intent to support Palestine Action, noting it is not banned in Ireland, and accepted potential legal consequences. Faber emphasized it remains proud of her work and will continue selling it elsewhere. The UK Home Office defended the ban as evidence-based and parliamentary-approved, insisting it does not suppress lawful protest.
The situation places both Rooney and her publisher at risk of prosecution under UK law for supporting a proscribed organization.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing