Major publisher pulls Jamie Oliver's children's book amid criticism from Indigenous Australians

British celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and major publisher Penguin Random House have withdrawn Oliver's latest children’s book, Billy And The Epic Escape, from Australian shelves following backlash over its portrayal of Indigenous Australians.

The Guardian first reported the decision, revealing the criticisms raised by the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Corporation about the book’s content.

Indigenous campaigners were outraged that neither Oliver nor Penguin Random House consulted with Indigenous communities before the novel was published. The lack of engagement was seen as a significant oversight, particularly given the book’s sensitive themes.

Criticism focused on the book’s use of stereotypes related to Indigenous connections to nature and spirituality, with a subplot involving an Indigenous girl in foster care flagged as especially problematic. Critics argued that this storyline contributed to the "erasure, trivialisation, and stereotyping of First Nations peoples and experiences."

In response, Oliver issued a public apology, stating, "It was never my intention to misinterpret this deeply painful issue." He confirmed that, together with his publisher, they would withdraw the book from circulation.

The incident highlights the need for careful consultation with Indigenous communities to ensure their stories are represented respectfully, especially when addressing sensitive cultural and historical topics.

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Top image: Jamie Oliver