The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle

· Otbebookpublishing
Ebook
277
Pages
Eligible
Ratings and reviews aren’t verified  Learn More

About this ebook

The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle is the second of Hugh Lofting's Doctor Dolittle books. Published in 1922, the writing style is aimed at a more mature audience and features more sophisticated illustrations than its predecessor. The novel's scope is vast; it is nearly five times as long as its predecessor and is divided into six parts. It won the Newbery Medal for 1923. Along with other novels in the series, it was adapted into the 1967 film Doctor Dolittle.

About the author

Hugh Lofting, born on January 14, 1886, in Maidenhead, England, is best known for creating the beloved character Doctor Dolittle, a physician who can communicate with animals. Lofting's journey to literary fame is as compelling as his imaginative tales. Educated at the prestigious Mount St Mary's College and later at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Lofting's early career was far removed from the world of children's literature. He worked as a civil engineer, a profession that took him across the globe, from Canada to West Africa.The outbreak of World War I marked a significant turning point in Lofting's life. Serving in the Irish Guards, he experienced the brutal realities of trench warfare. It was during this time that Lofting began writing illustrated letters to his children, inventing the character of Doctor Dolittle to shield them from the horrors of war. These letters eventually formed the basis of his celebrated series.Lofting's work is notable for its progressive ideas, particularly his advocacy for animal rights and environmental conservation, themes that resonate strongly with contemporary readers. His imaginative storytelling and richly detailed world-building have influenced numerous writers, including J.K. Rowling and Philip Pullman.Despite his acclaim, Lofting's work has not been without controversy. Some of his early writings reflect the racial attitudes of his time, which have since been criticized and led to revisions in modern editions. Nevertheless, Lofting's contributions to children's literature remain significant, offering timeless tales of empathy, adventure, and the importance of understanding all living creatures. His legacy endures, reminding us of the power of imagination to transcend even the darkest times.

Rate this ebook

Tell us what you think.

Reading information

Smartphones and tablets
Install the Google Play Books app for Android and iPad/iPhone. It syncs automatically with your account and allows you to read online or offline wherever you are.
Laptops and computers
You can listen to audiobooks purchased on Google Play using your computer's web browser.
eReaders and other devices
To read on e-ink devices like Kobo eReaders, you'll need to download a file and transfer it to your device. Follow the detailed Help Center instructions to transfer the files to supported eReaders.