Reported by 3 sources

The short version

  • Several schools and major retailers have removed David Walliams' books from sale and library shelves following allegations of sexual misconduct.
  • Education leaders are calling for national guidance to ensure consistent handling of the situation across different institutions.
  • Opinions remain divided, with some educators citing trauma concerns while others argue that removal prevents necessary conversations about the allegations.

A growing number of schools, libraries, and retailers in the United Kingdom are removing books by David Walliams from their collections and shelves. This widespread action follows the publication of serious allegations accusing the best-selling children's author and comedian of sexual misconduct and abuses of power. Walliams has denied these allegations, but the controversy has prompted institutions to reassess their relationship with his work.

The decision to withdraw titles is not uniform across the country. Pepe Di'Iasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, noted that head teachers are facing difficult choices regarding whether to keep Walliams' books available. He confirmed that several members of his association have already decided to remove the publications from their school libraries, reflecting a cautious approach to managing potential distress among students.

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Darren Morgan, head of Kings Road Primary School in Manchester, explained that while Walliams' stories had been useful for promoting reading, the presence of the allegations makes it difficult to retain the books. He emphasized the challenge of maintaining these titles on shelves when they are associated with such serious accusations. Similarly, Steve Chalke, head of Oasis Academies, argued that it is impossible to shield children from the current news cycle surrounding Walliams.

Chalke suggested that seeing Walliams' name or photograph in a school library could be traumatizing for some children, particularly those who may have experienced similar issues. This perspective has influenced decisions at multiple institutions, where the potential emotional impact on young readers is weighed against the educational value of the literature. The Department for Education has been asked to comment on the situation, though no national directive has yet been issued.

In response to the fragmented approach, Di'Iasio urged the government to provide clear national guidance. He argued that leaving decisions to individual head teachers results in inconsistency, with some schools removing books while others retain them. Standardized advice would help ensure that all institutions handle the situation in a manner that prioritizes student well-being and clarity.

The retail sector has also reacted decisively. Major chains including Waterstones, TG Jones, and The Works have announced they will no longer sell Walliams' books. Additionally, his publisher, HarperCollins, cut ties with him in September, preceding the recent wave of institutional removals. These commercial decisions reflect a broader societal reckoning with the allegations and their implications for public figures.

However, not all experts support the removal of the books. Author Chloe Combi, who writes about youth experiences in modern Britain, argued that banning Walliams' works is inappropriate. She suggested that such actions could sweep important conversations under the carpet, preventing parents and educators from addressing the allegations directly with children. Combi emphasized the responsibility of adults to facilitate these difficult discussions rather than avoiding them through censorship.

Public libraries face similar dilemmas, with decisions resting on local council policies. The Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) acknowledged that dealing with challenges to books is complex and stressful for staff. While some councils have moved to remove titles, others, such as Kent County Council, have stated they have no plans to do so. A spokesperson for Kent emphasized that books should remain available unless their content is unlawful, rejecting blanket bans on individual authors.

The situation highlights a broader tension between protecting young audiences and preserving access to literature. As institutions continue to make independent decisions, the lack of a unified national strategy leaves educators and librarians navigating uncharted territory. The debate over Walliams' books underscores the complex ethical considerations involved when public figures face serious allegations.

Sources behind this briefing

Go to the original reporting

  • BBC News↗Schools, libraries and parents face 'difficult decision' over David Walliams books
  • PBS↗British comedian and children's author David Walliams accused of sexual misconduct
  • AP News↗British comedian and children’s author David Walliams accused of sexual misconduct