theguardian.com
Oliver's Book Pulled After Indigenous Backlash
Jamie Oliver's children's book faces backlash and is pulled from sale due to harmful stereotypes of First Nations communities.
English
United Kingdom
EntertainmentControversyApologyPublishingCultural AppropriationStereotypes
Penguin Random House UkNational Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Education Commission (Natsiec)
Jamie OliverSharon DavisAnita HeissCheryl Leavy
- What was Jamie Oliver's response to the criticism?
- Following the controversy, Jamie Oliver issued a second apology for causing offense and stated that misinterpreting such a painful issue was never his intention. He cooperated with the publisher in the decision to withdraw the book.
- How did Penguin Random House respond to the controversy?
- Penguin Random House UK, the book's publisher, took full responsibility for the misjudgment and issued a statement acknowledging their publishing standards fell short. They agreed with Jamie Oliver to withdraw the book from sale.
- Why was Jamie Oliver's children's book pulled from sale?
- Jamie Oliver's children's book, "Billy and the Epic Escape," was pulled from sale due to widespread condemnation from First Nations communities. The book was deemed offensive and harmful for its portrayal of Indigenous peoples and trivialization of their experiences.
- Which organization led the call for the book's withdrawal?
- The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Commission (Natsiec) led the charge to have the book withdrawn, citing damaging stereotypes and disrespect. Prominent Indigenous authors and figures also voiced their support for the book's removal.
- What specific aspects of the book were criticized as offensive and harmful?
- The book's problematic aspects included a scene where a First Nations girl is abducted, perpetuating harmful stereotypes about Indigenous families and child welfare. Inaccurate use of Indigenous languages further contributed to the controversy.