Parents told to ditch classic children books in favour of 'woke' story about boy whose mothers are both pirates

Parents have been told to ditch classic children books by authors like Roald Dahl and Enid Blyton.

The Oxford University Press is asking parents to instead be “adventurous” and take chances on modern authors that discuss issues such as the environment, diversity and homelessness.

They say parents should attempt to “prompt questions and build greater understanding of global issues” with their children.

The publisher’s research found close to two thirds of parents in Britain choose books they read in their childhood, instead of trying newer authors.

Favourite authors included Roald Dahl, Enid Blyton, and Beatrix Potter.

Others included Julia Donaldson and Michael Morpurgo.

37% of parents surveyed did not know where to locate newer titles, with half saying they would prefer to read older titles.

The OUP has released a number of books which they believe will aide children in their education and learning of the “wider society”.

Titles include The Pirate Mums by Jodie Lancet-Grant, about a boy whose mothers are both pirates.

Nigel Portwood, OUP chief executive, said reading “was a valuable tool” to help children understand “societal issues”