'It's unprecedented': how bookstores are handling the American Dirt controversy

Some stores aren’t carrying the novel, which has been criticized for stereotypical depictions of Mexicans, while others are promoting it alongside works by Latinx writers

Independent bookstores across the US have found themselves in the crosshairs of the unabating controversy over American Dirt, with some booksellers debating how they should promote the novel, and redistribute the profits.

Jeanine Cummins’ third novel drew swift criticism following its 21 January release for its stereotypical depictions of Mexicans and inaccurate representation of undocumented immigrants in America. The large advance Cummins received raised questions about who gets to profit from telling the story of the border crisis.

Related: American Dirt: why critics are calling Oprah's book club pick exploitative and divisive

Here's our American Dirt display. pic.twitter.com/7XJCMDg4li

Continue reading...