Chicago Sun-Times publishes fake summer reading list generated by AI

On May 20, 2025, the Chicago Sun-Times, a well-known newspaper, faced significant backlash after publishing a summer reading list that included at least 10 fabricated books. This list was included in an advertorial supplement that the newspaper released, and it was reported that 66% of the titles were fictitious, generated by an AI system without proper fact-checking. The books included names like "Tidewater Dreams" attributed to Isabel Allende and "The Last Algorithm" linked to Andy Weir, both of which are non-existent. This incident raised concerns among readers about the integrity of the publication and the reliance on AI-generated content in journalism, particularly during a time when the industry is facing financial challenges and staffing reductions. The controversy surrounding the summer reading list prompted the Chicago Sun-Times to issue a statement on social media, acknowledging the issue and revealing that the content of the supplement was not created or approved by their newsroom. A spokesperson, Marco Buscaglia, explained that the intent of the content was to be generic and suitable for a national audience and that they did not have a comprehensive list of where such content had been distributed. This clarification did little to soothe the anger of some subscribers, who felt betrayed by the apparent misuse of AI technology to generate content that should have undergone editorial oversight. This incident occurred against a backdrop of significant staff reductions at the Chicago Sun-Times; only two months earlier, the publication had reported a loss of 20% of its workforce due to a buyout program. In March 2025, Chicago Public Media, the nonprofit owner of the Sun-Times, announced the staff cuts as a strategy to save costs amidst financial difficulties. The organization indicated that they expected to save $4.2 million annually following the departures, which included many experienced journalists and editors. The context of under-staffing and budget constraints likely contributed to the decision to use AI-generated content in their publications, leading to the current situation where readers question the authenticity and reliability of the news content they consume. As the journalism industry continues to navigate the challenges posed by financial pressures and digital transformation, cases like this highlight the delicate balance between embracing technology and maintaining journalistic integrity. The concerns raised by the public underscore the need for transparency and accurate reporting, especially in a period where trust in media is increasingly vital. This situation serves as a cautionary tale for other publications regarding the potential pitfalls of relying heavily on AI without adequate checks and balances.