A German publisher has announced it is withdrawing two new books paying tribute to a highly popular character in children’s fiction after facing accusations of racism and cultural appropriation.
Ravensburger Verlag, a leading publisher of children’s books in the German-speaking world, said its latest books on Winnetou, a fictional Native American hero who made his debut in 1875, would be pulled from its schedule and that it would also be considering whether to continue publishing other Winnetou titles in future.
Bookshops have reportedly been stopped from ordering the books from Ravensburger and they also appeared to have been pulled from Amazon on Tuesday. Editions by other publishers were still available.
The publisher said it was reacting to “many negative responses” to its publication of the books aimed at the 7+ age group, related to a recently released feature film called The Young Chieftain Winnetou, including one for learner readers.
The publishers’ move has sparked a debate over whether the film should also be pulled.
Credit: theguardian.com
