Children’s book pulped over claim Covid-19 originated in China
- German publisher apologises after Chinese consulate objects and warns local community to be vigilant against acts of hatred
- Virus origins have been politicised in many countries leading to rise in harassment and violence against Asians
The picture book, A Corona Rainbow for Anna and Moritz, was published by Carlsen Verlag in June to help children understand the pandemic. In it, the father of the title characters says “the virus comes from China and has spread out from there across the whole world”.
Carlsen said any copies still available would be destroyed and the next edition would be corrected. “If the phrases have hurt the feelings of any of our readers, we are very sorry,” it said.
The decision followed a representation to the publisher by China’s consulate in Hamburg, which also issued a warning about the book to the local Chinese community to be vigilant against acts of hatred.
“Provocation, discrimination and hatred are not in line with Germany’s mainstream values,” the consulate said in a statement. “[Chinese] parents, please remind your children that if they come across such speech or act, try to protect themselves, avoid disputes and report to the teacher and school.”
The book also received poor ratings on Amazon along with comments that it was racist and discriminatory.
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