Roald Dahl books to KEEP author's original words in new classics collection after woke row

Puffin UK has announced they are to release Roald Dahl books without any changes, following major criticism.

The publishers decision to amend the language used in the classic children’s author’s books was universally slammed, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemning the review.

The latest editions were to be edited to remove potentially offensive language.

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The 17 titles will be available later this year and will include archive material relevant to each of the stories by the much-loved but controversial children’s author.

The classic collection will sit alongside the newly-released Roald Dahl books for young readers, which have been rewritten to cater for the sensitivities of modern audiences.

Some of the changes including removing the word "fat" from every book, with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory character Augustus Gloop being described as "enormous".

The iconic Oompa Loompas were also set to be altered, from "small men" to the gender-neural "small people".

In a statement surrounding the amendments, the Prime Minister's spokesperson said:“When it comes to our rich and varied literary heritage, the Prime Minister agrees with the BFG that we shouldn’t gobblefunk around with words.”

Francesca Dow, MD of Penguin Random House Children’s said: “At Puffin we have proudly published Roald Dahl’s stories for more than forty years in partnership with the Roald Dahl Story Company. Their mischievous spirit and his unique storytelling genius have delighted the imaginations of readers across many generations.

“We’ve listened to the debate over the past week which has reaffirmed the extraordinary power of Roald Dahl’s books and the very real questions around how stories from another era can be kept relevant for each new generation.

“As a children’s publisher, our role is to share the magic of stories with children with the greatest thought and care. Roald Dahl’s fantastic books are often the first stories young children will read independently, and taking care for the imaginations and fast-developing minds of young readers is both a privilege and a responsibility.

Best selling author Roald Dahl in 1988
Rebecca Naden

“We also recognise the importance of keeping Dahl’s classic texts in print. By making both Puffinand Penguin versions available, we are offering readers the choice to decide how they experience Roald Dahl’s magical, marvellous stories.”

The Roald Dahl Classic Collection will sit alongside the newly released Puffin Roald Dahl books for young readers and readers will be free to choose which version of Dahl’s stories they prefer.

A spokesperson for The Roald Dahl Story Company said: “The last few days have demonstrated just how important Roald Dahl’s stories are to fans all around the world, and we’ve been deeply moved by the strength of feeling.

“The most important thing to us is that the stories continue to be enjoyed by all. Puffin UK’s plan to print two editions of the book will give readers – whether seven or 77 – the choice to explore the stories in whichever way they wish.”