Scholastic backtracks after alleged exclusion of diverse books
Children’s publisher Scholastic was criticised for alleged exclusion of diverse books at book fairs in the US amid right-wing pressure.
Askold Melnyczuk remembers Victoria Amelina as Ukraine war rages
In a recent interview with Askold Melnyczuk, the renowned writer, translator, and Arrowsmith Press founder, How To Be Books delved into the life and work of the late Victoria Amelina, a prominent writer whose impact transcended borders. Melnyczuk recently edited and published the anthology “Nothing Bad Has Ever Happened,” which serves as a tribute to […]
Frankfurt Book Fair: open letter supports cancelled Adania Shibli
In these recent and troubling times, we have witnessed a disheartening trend across several European countries—a clampdown on cultural events that seek to amplify Palestinian art, voices, and stories. The Frankfurt Book Fair, known as the largest and most influential international book fair, slated to run from October 18 to 23, has stirred controversy by […]
Top authors call on Baillie Gifford to end fossil fuel ties
A fresh campaign, endorsed by over 150 prominent authors, including renowned activist Naomi Klein, has petitioned the Edinburgh Book Festival sponsor Baillie Gifford, to sever its connections with the fossil fuel industry. In July, The Ferret, an investigative journalism outlet, brought to light that Baillie Gifford, a significant asset manager headquartered in Edinburgh, had invested […]
Book clubs: is the trend of literary gatherings dying out?
In recent years, book clubs have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity, drawing not only avid readers but also celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Emma Roberts, and even Bridgerton creator Shonda Rhimes into their literary fold. The question that now lingers is whether this cultural phenomenon is fading into obscurity, losing its once-pervasive appeal. COVID […]
Roberto Saviano defamation verdict against Italy PM a blow to free speech
In a verdict that has sent shockwaves through Italy’s literary and journalistic circles, renowned author and PEN award winner Roberto Saviano was found guilty of defaming Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. The ruling, handed down by Rome’s criminal court, came with a €1,000 (£865 / $1,054) fine and a sense of foreboding for free speech […]
Michael Rosen unveils Uyghur scholar Rahile Dawut as PEN’s Writer of Courage
Renowned author Michael Rosen recently announced Professor Rahile Dawut as the recipient of the prestigious PEN Pinter Prize for her courage and commitment to her work despite facing persecution. The annual prize, named after the legendary playwright Harold Pinter, is awarded to writers who have faced adversity for their beliefs. The award ceremony took place […]
Spotify audiobooks: a challenge to the publishing world
In a surprising move earlier this month, Spotify expanded its premium subscription offerings to include hundreds of audiobooks. From contemporary releases like Safiya Sinclair’s “How to Say Babylon: A Memoir” to internet sensations such as Jennette McCurdy’s “I’m Glad My Mom Died,” this development has sparked excitement among audio-bibliophiles. However, as Spotify dives headfirst into […]
Alabama flags book because author’s name is ‘Gay’
In a recent incident that highlights the challenges libraries face in curating their collections, a children’s picture book titled “Read Me a Story, Stella” found itself at the centre of controversy at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library (HCPL). The cause of the uproar? The author’s last name is ‘Gay,’ leading to concerns of potentially “sexually […]
Mongolian books face ban as part of China’s ‘cultural genocide’
In a troubling episode indicative of China’s strict censorship rules, the world was recently reminded of the country’s relentless efforts to suppress voices that diverge from the official party line. Mongolian literature, long treasured for its rich cultural heritage, has become the latest casualty in Beijing’s campaign to assert control over ethnic Mongolians’ identity. Chinese […]