The Story of Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting follows John Dolittle, M.D., who becomes an animal doctor after learning to speak their languages from a parrot named Polynesia. His fame grows, and he is called to Africa to cure a monkey epidemic. During his journey, he is jailed by a king, escapes with the help of animals, and ultimately returns home to Puddleby with newfound wealth.

The Story of Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting is praised for its imaginative storytelling and charming characters, particularly the kind-hearted doctor who communicates with animals. However, some reviewers criticize outdated and racially insensitive elements. While engaging for children, the book requires discussions on its historical context and perspectives.

Fans of imaginative, animal-centric tales like E.B. White's Charlotte's Web or Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows will delight in Hugh Lofting's The Story of Doctor Dolittle, a charming adventure that captivates readers with its wit, heart, and enchanting encounters with talking animals.

Fantastical / Adventurous / Playful / Humorous / Heartwarming

- The Story of Doctor Dolittle was initially created by Hugh Lofting as letters to his children while he was serving in the trenches during World War I, providing a diversion from the grim realities of war.
- The character of Doctor Dolittle was inspired partly by Lofting's dissatisfaction with the children's literature available at the time, which often featured talking animals but with no logical explanation.
- The original illustrations for The Story of Doctor Dolittle were also done by Hugh Lofting himself, showcasing his artistic talent alongside his storytelling abilities.

**Doctor John Dolittle**  
A kind-hearted and eccentric doctor with an extraordinary ability to communicate with animals, whose compassion and curiosity lead him on adventurous journeys to help creatures in need.

**Polynesia**  
An intelligent and articulate parrot who teaches Doctor Dolittle to speak animal languages, using her cleverness to aid in their adventures.

**Chee-Chee**  
An adventurous monkey known for his resourcefulness and agility, who plays a critical role in guiding Doctor Dolittle's adventures with his quick wit and loyalty.

**Dab-Dab**  
A practical and resourceful duck who serves as Doctor Dolittle’s assistant, managing daily tasks and supporting the doctor with her organizational skills.

**Jip**  
A loyal dog with an exceptional sense of smell, whose bravery and tracking abilities are invaluable to Doctor Dolittle's quests.

**Gub-Gub**  
A humorous and endearing pig whose curiosity and love for food often bring comic relief, while contributing to the group’s dynamic.

**Too-Too**  
A wise owl with exceptional hearing, whose perceptiveness and insights often guide the group through difficult situations.

**The King of Jolliginki**  
A ruler depicted as hostile towards outsiders, whose actions create conflict for Doctor Dolittle during his adventures.

**Prince Bumpo**  
The son of the King of Jolliginki, whose interactions with Doctor Dolittle highlight both challenges and opportunities for resolution within the narrative.

**The Fisherman**  
A resilient and steadfast figure marooned by pirates, whose personal story intersects with Doctor Dolittle's journey, adding emotional depth.

**Tommy**  
The young nephew of the fisherman, whose plight and eventual reunion with his uncle underscore themes of hope and family bonds.

Hugh Lofting

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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