Sally Rooney Pulls Books from UK Shelves Over Palestine Action Ban

The Irish novelist, known for works such as Normal People, will no longer sell her books within the United Kingdom. Her publisher, Faber, confirmed the move follows Rooney’s public vow to continue funding Palestine Action—a group classified as a terrorist organization by the British government since July 2025. Under Section 15 of the Terrorism Act, providing financial support to the group carries a penalty of up to 14 years in prison. Because Rooney intends to donate royalties to the organization, Faber stated it could not legally fulfill its contracts without violating the law.

Faber characterized the situation as unconscionable, noting they could neither sell the books nor remit payments to the author under current statutes. Rooney defended the decision, stating she is prepared to accept the personal and professional consequences of her convictions. The move has drawn intense criticism from human rights advocates and political figures, including Jeremy Corbyn, who labeled the removal of her work a stain on the government. As the UK Supreme Court prepares to hear a legal challenge against the group's proscription next month, Amnesty International UK warned that Rooney’s case creates a chilling effect, potentially deterring other voices from speaking out against state policy.