Hugh Lofting

The Story of Doctor Dolittle Hugh Lofting

The Story of Doctor Dolittle, Being the History of His Peculiar Life at Home and Astonishing Adventures in Foreign Parts is the first of the classically loved Doctor Dolittle series by Hugh Lofting. Doctor John Dolittle is a physician living in England who loves animals. He acquires many animals in his small home, but the volume of animals causes his human patients to be uncomfortable and seek out other practitioners. Doctor Dolittle does the most sensible thing in that situation - learns to speak to the animals from his pet parrot, and takes up veterinary medicine instead of human medicine. Soon after, many animals seek him out and take residence in his home, causing all sorts of problems, but giving Dolittle the fame he needs to travel the world as a special doctor to animals. He begins adventuring throughout the world to help sick and injured animals, and runs into animals and mythical creatures who benefit from his expertise. This story is charming and has been the basis for many movies over the years. Its humor and adventurous spirit are sure to delight readers of all ages.