You are right it is silly, but the one's lamenting the change (I don't believe I have ever heard of the book) are not the ones that started the silliness.....that was started by some busybodies in California (where else?) That want all movies, including the old classics, to be given an "R" or "mature" rating if there is any sign of cigarettes, cigars or smoking in them.
I agree that this whole revise-everything-for-PC-ness is silly and asinine. Those promoters of nanny state lala land can't leave ANYTHING alone if it expresses a thought that offends them or portrays a person as an individual with a mind of their own-I am truly sick of it.
i am agog that you have not heard of GOODNIGHT MOON! that is like THE childhood staple of my kids!