Backlash Erupts at Grasset Following Lise Boëll's Appointment as Head

The recent appointment of Lise Boëll as the head of the French publishing house Grasset has sparked considerable controversy and discontent among authors and employees. Boëll, known as the historic editor of Eric Zemmour and close to a Breton billionaire, succeeded Olivier Nora, whose dismissal in April triggered significant uproar.

This leadership change has led to a wave of criticism and protests from the literary community. According to Liberation, the removal of Nora was seen as a scandal, prompting many writers to leave Grasset in dissatisfaction. Additionally, a group of about sixty former Grasset authors released a strong statement condemning the actions of Grasset's controlling party, with claims that the new direction was destructive to the publishing house's established reputation and values.

Le Monde reports that within the company, employees have received the new management team coldly, reflecting unease and dissatisfaction. Former authors also accused the management of "pillage" of the prestigious publishing house, underscoring the tensions between the new leadership and Grasset's traditional cultural ethos.

The controversy highlights a broader cultural rift about the direction and control of one of France's leading publishing institutions, with significant consequences for its authors and workforce. As the backlash continues, the future stability and identity of Grasset remain uncertain.