Renowned author Sally Rooney has announced that her novels will cease to be supplied to booksellers in the United Kingdom. This decision stems from her public support for Palestine Action, a group that has been proscribed as a terrorist organisation in the UK.

Rooney, known globally for her best-selling novels such as "Normal People" and "Conversations With Friends," stated that continuing to publish her work in the UK could now constitute a serious criminal offence. She has therefore agreed with her publisher, Faber, to halt the supply of her books within the country.

In a statement to BBC News, Rooney explained that she had been open about her beliefs and was prepared for the consequences. "I have made every effort to be honest with the public about my beliefs and intentions, and I am wholly prepared to accept the consequences," she said. Ebook editions have already been removed from UK platforms, though physical copies currently in stock at bookshops remain available.

The implications of this move are significant for Rooney's readership in the UK, where she has sold over 2.3 million books. Publisher Faber cited "current legislation in the UK" as the reason for being unable to pass on earnings to the author, describing the situation as "unconscionable."

Palestine Action was officially proscribed in the UK in July 2025, with the government citing its history of criminal damage, including targeting arms companies linked to Israel's conflict in Gaza. Rooney had previously expressed her intention to continue supporting the group, which is not proscribed in the Republic of Ireland where she resides.

In an opinion piece last August, Rooney indicated her commitment to supporting Palestine Action, even if it meant facing legal repercussions in the UK. This led to her cancelling a UK trip to receive an award due to fears of potential arrest.

Faber confirmed its continued commitment to Rooney's "remarkable body of work" and will continue to sell her books in other territories. The publisher stated that the current legislative environment in the UK made it impossible to fulfil contractual obligations regarding the author's earnings.

Rooney's decision highlights the complex legal and ethical landscape faced by public figures who express solidarity with controversial political groups, particularly in light of evolving legislation and international relations. The long-term impact on her literary presence in the UK and the broader discourse surrounding activism and artistic freedom remains to be seen.