Mums fire up over Aldi's 'transgender' kids' book

Aldi is the latest retail chain to come under fire on social media, with the supermarket under siege from some followers over its decision to stock a the children's book The Boy in the Dress.

The short novel, authored by comedian David Walliams, has got certain shoppers hot under the collar as it features, as the title suggests, a boy wearing... a dress.

"Aldi - we are so very disappointed in your decision to stock a book within your store - relating to transgenderism in children! Apparently it's available on Wednesday Sept 6th," Kathryn Wooley wrote, handily alerting other shoppers to the exact date the book can be found in store, should they wish to purchase it.

"We would ask that you reconsider your choice to sell it! Family & children must be protected in times where there are those whose agenda is to groom & sexualise them!

"We ask you to have a conscience in this matter!"

Kathryn's post quickly received hundreds of responses, most of which argued for tolerance and understanding.

"I beg to differ - Go ALDI!!!" replied Lucy Clifford. "If you don't like it, don't buy it... but I for one think it's great - if the "worst" my kids do is dress or behave in ways that don't conform to gender norms I'll be a happy mum indeed, and if these books help a child struggling with their identity find some comfort (whether it my child or yours), I think they're worth their weight in gold..."

RELATED: Plus-sized shoppers slam Target over 'disgusting' clothes

Others thanked Kathryn for letting them know the book would be available.

"Thanks for posting this - I rarely shop at Aldi but shall make a point of going there this week and hope I can grab a copy of this awesome book!" posted Kris Marshall.

There were some who shared Kathryn's concerns.

"As a loyal customer I am extremely disappointed to find that you are actively promoting a book called The Boy in the Dress by David Walham," George wrote.

"This is disturbing . ALDI's concern should be to sell quality products to customer and provide a good service (which you do) . However you have now overstepped the line. Your role is not to propagate sexually confusing material to minors.

"As a protest I will refuse to shop at ALDI for the next month. So will others that I know ."

However George was quickly also given his marching orders.

"Please extend your boycott for more than a mere month,then I don't have to fear of crossing paths with someone like yourself while doing my shopping ....now back to the 1920's you go," wrote Deb Butler.

The book was made into a TV movie in 2014, which starred Kate Moss and Jennifer Saunders.

Aldi has reponded to the discussion and says the book will remain on shelves.

"With ALDI’s unique range of Special Buys, there is often a range of feedback," a spokesperson from the chain told Be in a statement.

"We have no intention of removing The Boy in the Dress from sale, the book tells the story of freedom of expression and tolerance. This forms part of a range from David Walliams, the third biggest children’s book author in Australia, and is available throughout a number of major retailers."

Want more celebrity, entertainment and lifestyle news? Follow Be on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr and Instagram