Doctor Dolittle

Doctor Dolittle — page 1
Introduction Stories about a kindly veterinarian named John Dolittle first appeared in book form in the 1920s with the publication of The Story of Doctor Dolittle by English born author Hugh Lofting 1886 1947 When Lofting served in the trenches as a member of the British army during World War I he wrote home to his wife and young children not of the grim realities of battle but of an imaginary doctor who could talk to animals These letters became the basis for the initial book of the Dr Dolittle series Lofting followed The Story of Doctor Dolittle with 11 more Dolittle novels including the 1923 Newbery Medal winning sequel The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle The final volume Doctor Dolittle and the Secret Lake was published a year after Lofting's death in 1948 Lofting himself supplied the original artwork and used the books as a vehicle for spreading messages of peace and compassion in an uncertain and increasingly violent world In the process he created an icon of children's literature Dr Dolittle who would stand the test of time Taking inspiration from the original tales iconic American author and illustrator Seymour Chwast here reinterprets Dr Dolittle for a 21st century graphic novel influenced audience Although the text itself has been reimagined to fit the format the general plot of The Story of Doctor Dolittle along with the sentiments and ideais behind it remain the same Dr Dolittie's world is one of childlike wonder and hope It is a world that beckons us to seek adventure and encourages us to be caretakers of all creatures great small and