Sally Rooney, the author of 'Normal People', announced that her novels will no longer be supplied to booksellers in the UK due to her support for Palestine Action, which is classified as a terrorist organization in the UK. Rooney stated that continuing publication of her work could result in a serious criminal offense, leading her and her publisher, Faber, to agree on this decision.
Rooney has publicly expressed her intention to use her royalties to support Palestine Action, which was proscribed in the UK in 2025 for its history of criminal damage. In a statement to BBC News, she emphasized her commitment to being transparent about her beliefs and accepting the consequences of her actions.
Ebook editions of her works have already been removed from sale in the UK, although physical copies may still be available in bookstores. Waterstones confirmed that Faber had indicated there are no restrictions on booksellers keeping existing stock.
According to NielsenIQ BookData, Rooney has sold over six million books globally, with 2.3 million sold in the UK. Her notable works include 'Normal People', 'Conversations With Friends', 'Beautiful World, Where Are You', and 'Intermezzo'.
Faber stated that current UK legislation prevents them from passing on earnings to Rooney for her work, which they described as an unconscionable situation. They affirmed their commitment to publishing her works in other territories.
Rooney's support for Palestine Action has drawn attention, particularly following her decision to cancel a UK trip to accept an award due to concerns about potential arrest. Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori praised Rooney for her principled stance, stating that the withdrawal of her books represents a troubling trend regarding free speech in light of the group's proscription.
More than 3,700 individuals have reportedly been arrested in the UK for alleged support of Palestine Action, with approximately 2,500 charged, although no trials have occurred as legal challenges to the proscription are ongoing and set to be heard by the Supreme Court next month.