Sales of Sally Rooney books surge in Northern Ireland after publisher stops distribution

Irish novelist Sally Rooney's books will no longer be sold in the United Kingdom due to her intention to use royalties to support Palestine Action, a pro-Palestinian group classified as a terrorist organization. Rooney and her publisher, Faber, announced this decision on Wednesday. Known for works like "Normal People" and "Conversations with Friends," Rooney has been a vocal supporter of Palestine Action, even after the group was banned by the British government under terrorism laws in 2025.

Rooney had previously stated in a legal challenge against the ban that her plans could lead to her books being withdrawn from sale in Britain. Faber explained that due to current UK legislation, they cannot pass on UK earnings to Rooney for her work, making it an "unconscionable situation" for a publisher. Rooney acknowledged her role in the situation, saying she had been "honest with the public about my beliefs and intentions" and is ready to accept the consequences.

Palestine Action, which has increasingly targeted Israeli defense companies, was banned shortly after a June 2025 incident at the Royal Air Force's Brize Norton base. Despite a February High Court ruling in favor of Palestine Action, the Court of Appeal overturned the decision in June, with the Supreme Court set to hear an appeal next month.

Over 3,000 people have been arrested for supporting Palestine Action, and its proscription has faced criticism from civil liberties groups.