Because the queen consort Camilla was “shocked and baffled” by the new editions of Roald Dahl

On 17 February last, The Telegraph has published a sensational report documenting changes and reductions made to a new edition of the children’s books by the late writer Roald Dahl. In particular, the descriptions of the characters «fat» had been removed, for example by quoting a nursery rhyme in James and the Giant Peach in which a character, initially defined as «terribly fat», was instead described as a «bad brute».

“Although Dahl’s works are not universally loved, they remain a favorite among adults, and this sentiment, together with the insinuation that the new editions are a form of censorship, has inspired passionate discussions. Thursday, the queen consort Camilla she “entered the fray” when, during an event, she commented on the value of imagination and censorship.

During a speech held at a rescheduled reception to celebrate her book club’s two-year anniversary, he pleaded with the public to value freedom of expression and apparently referred to the end of de Witches by Dahl , where the protagonist is transformed into a mouse. «Please remain faithful to your callingwithout being hindered by those who could want to curb freedom of expression or impose limits on your imagination”, he said. “That’s enough! Do not be heard in the voice of mice for your successes, but you roar like a pride of lions».

According to theindependenta source close to Camilla said the queen consort remained “shocked and dismayed” in feeling that Dahl’s books had been altered and to believe that the freedom of writers should be preserved.

On Friday, Dahl’s British publisher announced it would continue to sell older editions of the books alongside newly edited ones. Puffin, a children’s publishing house, will be selling new editions while parent company Penguin Random House will offer 17 books by Dahl in Roald Dahl Classic Collection. “We have heard last week’s debate reaffirming the extraordinary power of Roald Dahl’s books and the important questions about how stories from another era can be kept relevant for new generations,” he said. Frances Dow, general manager of Penguin Random House Children. “By making both Puffin and Penguin available, we’re giving readers the freedom to decide how they want to experience Roald Dahl’s magical and wondrous stories.”

Thursday’s event was the queen consort’s first public appearance after testing positive for COVID-19 earlier in the month. You also mentioned her illness in your welcome speech: “Your Majesty, ladies and gentlemen, it is a great pleasure to welcome Clarence House to all of you, writers, publishers and book lovers. A week late, but COVID free!” she said. “So thanks for adjusting your busy schedules and coming today.”