Sally Rooney Ends Hebrew Translation Boycott With New Novel Release

Irish novelist Sally Rooney has reversed her long‑standing boycott of Hebrew translations, agreeing to publish her latest novel “Intermezzo” through an Israeli publisher that supports Palestinian rights.

Rooney, 35, previously blocked Hebrew editions of her 2021 novel “Beautiful World, Where Are You” after learning that her former Israeli publisher, Modan, had ties to the country’s military. She now works with independent November Books, alongside media outlets +972 Magazine and Local Call — the only Israeli publisher that meets Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement criteria.

“For me, the act of translation is in itself a beautiful ideal,” Rooney told Irish‑Palestinian artist Samir Eskanda. “Though my refusal to work with complicit Israeli publishing houses made the contractual side more complex, I was never boycotting the Hebrew language or any language.”

Rooney acknowledged that some warned her stance on Palestine could end her career, but she said she stands by her beliefs. November Books director Ishai Menuchin said the move shows Israeli readers that the boycott targets “occupation, apartheid and genocide” — not individuals or language.

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