Man confronts Perth bookshop owner at Rabble Books and Games after JK Rowling ban

Claire OttavianoThe West Australian
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Camera IconOwner of Rabble Books & Games in Maylands Nat Latter has discontinued stocking titles by JK Rowling. Credit: Jackson Flindell/The West Australian

Police were called to a Maylands bookstore yesterday after a man confronted the owner over the store’s decision to ban J.K Rowling books.

About 2pm, witnesses said a man entered Rabble Books and Games and refused to leave.

Owner Nat Latter confirmed the man was angered over the announcement to phase out the fantasy series following accusations the Harry Potter author’s latest book was transphobic.

“We asked him to leave and he refused,” she said.

“He just stood there with his arms folded.

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“There are people who don’t agree with the decision that we made and they are welcome to tell us they don’t agree, but they also can’t stand there and say awful things.”

Ms Latter said it was an isolated incident and they had not received any further backlash to the ban in store.

The man, who wished to remain anonymous, told the West Australian he did not deserve to get thrown out, claiming he was “polite and respectful”.

“I was not angry and I did not raise my voice,” he said.

“I said the decision to ban J.K Rowling was a little extreme.

“They then called the police, without any warning.

“I don’t think I deserved to have the police called, that took me by surprise.”

He said it did not call the owners names or behave in an abusive manner.

He left before police arrived.

The bookstore’s announcement on Facebook has received more than 560 comments and 250 shares.

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