The Story of Doctor Dolittle (Doctor Dolittle Series)
#1 of 7 in Doctor Dolittle Series
on Goodreads (50,920)
What’s inside...
In the first book of the series, Doctor Dolittle discovers his ability to communicate with animals, including Jip the dog, Dab Dab the duck, and Polynesia the parrot. As a devoted animal lover and physician, he finds this talent extremely useful. When a dire epidemic threatens the monkeys in Africa, Doctor Dolittle embarks on a journey with his animal friends to help. Along the way, they encounter the extraordinary pushmi-pullyu. This classic tale, enriched with author Hugh Lofting's own illustrations, has been delighting readers of all ages for generations.
Discussion points
What did you think about Doctor Dolittle’s ability to talk to animals? How do you think that helped him understand them better?
If you could talk to any animal like Doctor Dolittle, which animal would you choose and what would you ask it?
Doctor Dolittle went on many adventures. Which adventure did you find the most exciting and why?
How do the different animal characters in the book help Doctor Dolittle? Can you think of a time when a friend helped you in a similar way?
What lessons do you think we can learn from Doctor Dolittle’s kindness and how he treats animals?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voice tones when discussing the different animals and their personalities to make the conversation lively and engaging.
Encourage your child to imagine and describe what their life would be like if they could communicate with animals. This helps in enhancing their creativity and empathy towards animals.
Relate the adventures of Doctor Dolittle to real-life scenarios, asking your child how they might handle similar situations, fostering problem-solving skills.
Discuss the moral lessons in the story, such as empathy, kindness, and understanding, and ask your child how they can apply these in their daily interactions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion and Kindness
Explanation: Doctor Dolittle demonstrates compassion by communicating with and caring for animals. His empathy extends beyond humans, showing kindness to all living beings.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being kind and compassionate to every creature, encouraging them to nurture and care for pets and wildlife.
Example Lesson: Learning from Diversity
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Doctor Dolittle encounters different cultures and species. Each meeting offers new learning opportunities, showing that diversity enriches life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace and learn from different cultures and perspectives, promoting inclusivity and understanding in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Doctor Dolittle often faces challenges which he solves through innovation and resourcefulness. His ability to speak with animals is a creative solution to understanding their needs.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively and find unique solutions to problems they encounter at school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Stewardship
Explanation: Caring for animals and their habitat, the doctor shows responsibility towards another life and environment. His actions exemplify stewardship.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being responsible for pets and environmental conservation, translating these values into everyday activities like recycling and caring for plants.
Example Lesson: The power of communication
Explanation: Doctor Dolittle's ability to talk to animals bridges the gap between species, solving misunderstandings and creating harmony.
Real-World Application: This highlights the importance of open communication and understanding in resolving conflicts and building strong relationships with those around them.