Penguin Random House Cancels Upcoming Book on Palestine by Alana Hadid and Jenan Matari

The deal for the book, titled "Displacement and the Palestinian American Story," was struck in November 2024 by Random House Children’s Books. It was intended for release in September but faced internal contention over the manuscript’s content, particularly regarding references to the Israeli occupation and the authors' personal narratives of family displacement.

Hadid, a philanthropist and sister of models Bella and Gigi Hadid, along with Matari, a communications strategist and author, reported that edits made by Random House misrepresented their views and sanitized historical events. A spokesperson for Random House stated that the publishing process adhered to standard procedures and that the company supported the authors' ultimate decision to withdraw the book.

The book was meant to be the eighth installment in the Race to the Truth series, which aims to present underrepresented perspectives in American history for readers aged 10 to 13. Following the conflict over the Palestine installment, a co-creator of the series announced she would no longer work with Penguin, emphasizing that the editorial control over the content was unacceptable.

Tensions arose primarily over the portrayal of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks in southern Israel. Hadid and Matari's original manuscript defended the right to resist colonial domination but was met with requests from Random House to adjust the language to include interpretations labeling those attacks as violations of international law. As disagreements persisted, the authors chose to withdraw the manuscript in early September.

Now, Hadid and Matari plan to publish the book through Interlink Books, a US-based Palestinian-owned publisher. Random House maintains its commitment to publish other works about Palestine in the future, stating they seek to bring diverse perspectives to young readers.

This incident reflects broader discussion about censorship and control of narratives concerning Palestine. Matari remarked that the content was aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of Palestinian history, which she believes is often sidelined.

The Race to the Truth series was initiated by Saira Rao and Regina Jackson, who have previously published on various American historical topics. Rao expressed urgency in covering the Palestinian narrative, citing its relevance to broader conversations about colonial violence and historic injustices.

Hadid and Matari’s manuscript detailed significant events including the Nakba of 1948 and their family histories, which involved displacement and loss. They intended for young readers to see Palestinians' humanity and struggles.

As the publishing landscape shifts, Interlink plans to release the authors' book next year, with hopes that it reaches audiences eager for authentic and unfiltered accounts of Palestinian experiences.