The Publishing Industry’s Shameful Betrayal of Kate Clanchy
Four years ago, celebrated author Kate Clanchy faced a swift and harsh cancellation. Her book Some Kids I Taught and What They Taught Me, published two years earlier, was criticized by authors and social-media users who labeled it as racist and even eugenicist for its descriptions of ethnic-minority and disabled characters. Her publisher, Picador, quickly backed down, issuing an apology for the hurt caused and promising to revise the text. Not long after, Clanchy and Picador ended their partnership.
Publisher’s Apology and Change of Heart
Recently, Pan Macmillan, which owns the Picador imprint, issued a formal apology to Clanchy. CEO Joanna Prior expressed regret over the events, stating,
“I’m sorry for the hurt that was caused to Kate Clanchy,”
and described the situation as part of “a regrettable series of events in Pan Macmillan’s past.”
Context and Initial Reception
Clanchy, an Orwell Prize-winning author with nearly 30 years of teaching experience, had originally written the book as a reflection on her time teaching. It was warmly received by both critics and the public at first. However, in 2021, amidst the fervor surrounding Black Lives Matter (BLM), some activists revisited the book with negative criticism.
Impact and Reflection
- Kate Clanchy’s work was criticized without full consideration of its intent or context.
- Her publisher swiftly apologized and attempted to alter the book, leading to the end of their relationship.
- The recent apology by Pan Macmillan acknowledges this mishandling.
“What was allowed to happen to Clanchy – an Orwell Prize-winning writer with almost three decades of teaching experience – was truly shameful.”
The episode reflects poorly on the publishing industry’s readiness to yield to social pressures without defending their authors.
Author’s Experience and Legacy
Kate Clanchy’s initial success and expertise were overshadowed by a wave of criticism driven by social media activism, which ultimately severed her ties with her publisher despite the book’s original positive reception.
Summary: The publishing industry's hasty withdrawal from defending Kate Clanchy amid social-media-driven backlash reveals a troubling willingness to undermine experienced authors without thorough scrutiny.