AceShowbiz - British celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and his publisher Penguin Random House have withdrawn his children's book "Billy and the Epic Escape" from sale after it sparked controversy. The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Corporation criticized the book for using harmful tropes and stereotypes about Indigenous Australians, including their connection to nature and spirituality.

One particular subplot, which featured an Indigenous girl living in foster care, was deemed to contribute to the erasure and trivialization of Indigenous experiences. Oliver expressed remorse for the offense caused and apologized wholeheartedly. He stated that he had no intention of misrepresenting the issue and emphasized that his goal was to create an empowering story.

The Guardian newspaper reported that Indigenous campaigners had specifically criticized Oliver and Penguin Random House for failing to consult with them before publishing the book. The publisher acknowledged its failure to meet publishing standards and announced its decision to withdraw the book from sale.

Oliver, who was promoting his latest recipe book in Australia, is among several celebrities who have written children's books. However, many children's authors have voiced concerns that this trend is crowding them out of the market.

"Billy and the Epic Escape" was Oliver's first children's book following the success of his recipe collection. He had previously gained fame for his 1999 book and television show "The Naked Chef" and has been an advocate for healthier children's food and nutrition.