French Education Ministry Cancels Modern 'Beauty and the Beast' Over Content Concerns

The decision to halt the book's 900,000-copy print run has drawn accusations of censorship and political bias from its illustrator and publisher.

The French Education Ministry canceled an order for a modern illustrated version of 'Beauty and the Beast,' citing inappropriate themes for children aged 10-11.
Illustrator Jul criticized the decision as politically motivated censorship, referencing sensitivities around cultural representation and far-right ideologies.
The book, featuring Belle as a Mediterranean girl and addressing themes like social media, alcohol, and police inspections, was deemed suitable only for guided educational settings.
The publisher, Grand Palais-RMN Editions, expressed shock at the cancellation and announced plans to release the book independently.
Education Minister Elisabeth Borne clarified that no public funds were spent on the canceled order, as the books had not yet been printed.