Former Meta Official’s Book Sparks Controversy
A controversial tell-all memoir penned by a former Meta executive has become a bestseller, moving 60,000 units in its initial week and achieving a top 10 position on the Amazon bestseller list. This success comes as the tech behemoth attempts to undermine its credibility.
Book Alleges Disturbing Conduct by Meta Executives
Published last week by Flatiron Books, an imprint of Macmillan, Sarah Wynn-Williams’s “Careless People” purportedly details harsh and unsettling conduct by prominent Meta figures including CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Joel Kaplan, and Sheryl Sandberg. It also outlines Zuckerberg’s purported attempts to curry favor with Chinese authorities.
Meta Denies Allegations, Cites Severance Breach
Meta, however, disputes these claims, asserting that Wynn-Williams, a former director of global public policy who departed Facebook in 2017, breached a separation agreement and authored a book rife with inaccuracies.
Strong Sales for “Careless People”
Flatiron Books reports that first-week sales encompassed print, audio, and digital versions. By Wednesday, “Careless People” had climbed to the number 3 spot on Amazon.
Legal Action and Arbitrator’s Ruling
Following a complaint lodged by Meta, an emergency arbitrator, Nicholas A. Gowen, issued a temporary restraint last week, preventing Wynn-Williams from promoting the book or making further “critical claims” about her former employer.
Arbitrator Upholds Non-Disparagement Claim
Gowen’s ruling stated that Meta demonstrated a “likelihood of success” regarding its contractual non-disparagement claim against Wynn-Williams. However, Flatiron Books retains the right to publish and promote “Careless People”.
Meta’s Statement on the Ruling
Meta issued a statement commending the arbitrator’s decision, claiming it “affirms that Sarah Wynn Williams’ untrue and libelous book should never have been released.” Meta has also characterized “Careless People” as a “blend of obsolete and previously disseminated claims about the company and fabricated allegations against our leadership.”
Publisher Defends Author and Book’s Integrity
Flatiron Books also released a statement, expressing they were “appalled by Meta’s strategies to silence our author through the application of a non-disparagement clause in a separation agreement.” The publisher further noted that the arbitrator did not address the allegations presented by Wynn-Williams.
Flatiron Pledges to Continue Support
“The book underwent a rigorous editing and verification process, and we remain dedicated to publishing significant books such as this. We will resolutely continue to support and promote it,” the statement declared.
Media Scrutiny of Meta’s Response
Flatiron Books opted not to publicize the book until shortly before its launch. Meta’s reaction extended to contacting media organizations, including The Associated Press, inquiring about their coverage plans. Ron Charles, a critic for The Washington Post, mentioned last week that he had received numerous communications from Meta.
Concerns Over Corporate Pressure
“In my 27 years of reviewing and editing newspaper book sections, no corporation has ever engaged with me in this manner,” he remarked.