Sally Rooney Books Pulled From UK Sale Over Terror Group Support

Irish author Sally Rooney announced that her books will no longer be sold in the United Kingdom due to her support for the pro-Palestinian organization Palestine Action, which has been designated a terror group by the UK. Rooney stated that continuing to sell her works could be considered a "serious criminal offense" and has therefore agreed with her publisher, Faber, to cease sales in Britain.

Rooney expressed her readiness to face the consequences of her beliefs, stating, "I have done everything I can to be honest with the public about my beliefs and intentions, and I am fully prepared to bear the consequences." Faber confirmed that current UK legislation prevents them from transferring royalties from Rooney's book sales to her, deeming it an "untenable situation" for a publisher. Consequently, they decided, with Rooney's full agreement, to stop supplying her works in any format within the UK, though they will continue to sell them in other territories.

Digital editions of Rooney's books, including "Normal People," "Conversations with Friends," and "Beautiful World, Where Are You," have already been removed from sale. While physical copies may still be available in some bookstores, the publisher has clarified that retailers are not prohibited from selling existing stock. Rooney, who has sold over six million books globally, previously canceled a trip to the UK to receive an award due to fears of arrest.

Palestine Action was outlawed and designated a terror organization by the UK government in 2025, citing its history of property damage, including campaigns against arms companies involved in the Gaza war. Rooney had stated in an opinion piece that she intended to continue supporting Palestine Action, which is not illegal in her native Republic of Ireland. Huda Ammori, founder of Palestine Action, called Rooney's stance "brave and principled" and described the book removal as a "new low in the escalating attack on free speech."