14 Children’s Literature Classics That Have Been Revised for Contemporary Sensitivities
In the ever-evolving landscape of children’s literature, timeless classics often find themselves under scrutiny for their outdated themes, language, or depictions. However, rather than discarding these cherished stories, many publishers have taken on the challenge of revising them to align with contemporary sensitivities. Here are 14 children’s literature classics that have undergone transformative revisions for the modern age.
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“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” by Roald Dahl
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is one of Roald Dahl’s most famous classics, with several film adaptations (the latest one starring Timothee Chalamet). The book has already been revised to change the description of Augustus Gloop’s character from “enormously fat “to “enormous.” The word “fat” was condemned for its body-shaming connotations.
“The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain
This 1885-published novel has been a staple in the school curriculum. But the book was filled with ‘Hurtful epithets’ and was then edited heavily to expunge hurtful racial terms like “the n-word,” which was repeated almost 200 times throughout the text and was replaced with “slave” everywhere in the text.
“The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett
“The Secret Garden” follows a young protagonist, Mary Lennox, born and raised in India. This 1911 book had a film adaptation starring Colin Firth. While the magic of the book was celebrated, it was condemned for its portrayal of colonized Indian people as cringing, servile, and undemocratic. The revised edition of the book also emphasized the importance of mental Health Awareness.
“Peter Pan” By J.M. Barrie
The book is the story of a mischievous little boy and his adventures on the island of Neverland. The book was published in 1911 and, in its new updated version, has undergone rigorous editing regarding the portrayal of Native American characters, with significant changes to eliminate offensive stereotypes. Moreover, consent and respecting personal boundaries are emphasized, encouraging readers to recognize and challenge problematic behavior.
“The Little House on the Prairie” by Laura Ingalls Wilder
The original lines of the book, “There were no people. Only Indians,” were later changed to “There were no settlers. Only Indians”. The lines perpetuated harmful stereotypes about native Indians and people of color. The revised edition of the book also included an authorial note discussing the historical context and the importance of acknowledging diverse perspectives.
“Pippi Longstocking” by Astrid Lindgren
This 100-year-old piece of nostalgia, with millions of children worldwide growing up with it, has been revised by the Oxford University Press. While preserving Pippi’s adventurous spirit, the revised edition ensures her interactions with characters from diverse backgrounds are respectful and free from stereotypes. Gender equality and empowerment are also emphasized to resonate with modern readers.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Caroll
This Victorian classic has undergone several changes to address the nonsensical and whimsical elements that may confuse younger readers. The revised edition provides annotations and explanations, guiding readers through the fantastical world of Wonderland while encouraging critical thinking.
“Anne of Green Gables” by L.M. Montgomery
Originally published in 1908, the novel follows an 11-year-old orphaned girl named Anne in Green Gables. While maintaining the charm of Avonlea, the revised edition addresses instances of bullying and prejudice, promoting kindness and acceptance. Furthermore, discussions of identity are expanded to reflect contemporary understandings.
“Winnie the Pooh” by A.A. Milne
The revised edition of the novel emphasizes the importance of friendship and emotional intelligence while minimizing potentially triggering language or situations. Characters communicate openly about their feelings, fostering empathy and understanding among young readers. The original edition, dating back to 14th October 1926, failed to consider these contemporary ideas.
“Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White
Illustrated by Garth Williams, the book follows an unconventional friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. Published in 1952, the updated versions of the novel are more informed and conscious, with a focus on kindness and ethical treatment of animals. Additionally, discussions on loss and grief are handled sensitively, comforting young readers experiencing similar emotions.
“The Velveteen Rabbit” by Margery Williams
“The Velveteen Rabbit” was revised to incorporate discussions on diversity and acceptance, addressing its original lack of representation. While beloved, Margery Williams’ timeless tale initially lacked acknowledgment of diverse backgrounds, which is essential in modern storytelling, by updating the narrative to include characters from different backgrounds, aligning with contemporary values of diversity and acceptance.
“Matilda” By Roald Dahl
In the book’s revised edition, the lines “She went on olden-day sailing ships with Joseph Conrad. She went to Africa with Ernest Hemingway and to India with Rudyard Kipling.” It has been changed to “She went to nineteenth-century estates with Jane Austen. She went to Africa with Ernest Hemingway and California with John Steinbeck,” for their apparent racist connotations.
“The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Graeme
The book‘s premise follows a Toad, a Rat, a Mole, and a Badger. While keeping the childish charm of the original, the revised edition includes discussions on environmental conservation and the interconnectedness of nature, encouraging readers to appreciate and protect the world around them.
“The Witches” by Roald Dahl
The revised version of this beloved classic has almost 200 changes. The words “old hag” have been changed to “old crows.” These changes have been made to maintain the work’s relevancy in this contemporary environment, with many famous writers, like Salman Rushdie, bashing the decision and terming it “absurd censorship.”
16 Famous Comedians Whose Jokes Are Forbidden in Today’s World
Related: In the ever-evolving comedy landscape, societal norms and sensitivities play a significant role in shaping acceptable humor. Over the years, certain comedians who were once celebrated for their wit and sharp humor have found themselves in hot water for jokes now deemed offensive or inappropriate.
Here are 16 famous comedians whose jokes are forbidden in today’s world.
