First Stories Doctor Doolittle
First time stories Series
on Goodreads (3)
What’s inside...
Meet Doctor Dolittle, he talks to animals and has a pushmi-pullyu as a pet! Push, pull and turn mechanisms bring Doctor Dolittle and his menagerie of animals to life as he goes on an adventure to Africa in First Stories: Doctor Dolittle! This is the perfect introduction for young children to this popular tale, with the well-loved story beautifully imagined for a new generation by illustrator Jean Claude. Little ones can collect more books in the First Stories series, including Jack and the Beanstalk, Pinocchio, and Puss in Boots.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-5
Length
8 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes Doctor Doolittle different from other doctors?
How do you feel about Doctor Doolittle talking to animals? What would you ask an animal if you could talk to them?
Doctor Doolittle goes on many adventures. Which adventure did you like the most and why?
What did you learn about helping and caring for animals from this book?
If you could be a character in the story, who would you be and what would you do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressions and voice modulations to mimic the animal sounds and characters, making the story more lively and engaging.
Ask your child to guess what might happen next in the story, encouraging them to think ahead and engage with the plot.
After reading, connect the story to real life by discussing the importance of caring for animals and understanding their needs.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This helps deepen their connection and understanding of the story.
Discuss the moral values in the story such as kindness, adventure, and curiosity, and how they can apply these values in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion towards animals
Explanation: Doctor Doolittle's deep care for animals and his ability to communicate with them showcases the importance of treating all living beings with kindness and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to treat pets and wildlife with respect and empathy, fostering a lifelong attitude of care and responsibility towards animals.
Example Lesson: Importance of communication
Explanation: The story highlights how Doctor Doolittle communicates with animals in their own languages, demonstrating that understanding different perspectives is key to effective communication.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to develop their listening and communication skills, understanding that people may have different views and experiences.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Doctor Doolittle often encounters challenges that require clever and compassionate solutions, emphasizing the value of innovative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by being encouraged to think creatively and solve problems they encounter, whether at school or in daily life.
Example Lesson: Respecting diversity
Explanation: Doctor Doolittle's interactions with various animals from different parts of the world underscore the importance of embracing and respecting diversity.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate different cultures and backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and tolerance in their interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Value of helping others
Explanation: Doctor Doolittle's journey is driven by his desire to help animals in need, which illustrates the joy and fulfillment that comes from helping others.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to participate in community service or help their peers, instilling a sense of service and kindness towards others.