The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle

Meer over het boek

The delightfully eccentric Doctor Dolittle, immortalized on screen by Rex Harrison, has captivated generations of children since his debut in an earlier novel. In this sequel, the maverick physician enlists a new assistant, Tommy Stubbins, who recounts the story as an elderly man. Tommy, the son of a village cobbler, first meets Doctor Dolittle when he brings in a hurt squirrel. Their friendship blossoms, and Tommy learns to communicate with animals in their own languages. The remarkable parrot Polynesia and other beloved creatures return, while the mysterious disappearance of a friend, Luke the Hermit, triggers a series of strange events. Tommy joins Doctor Dolittle on a perilous voyage to find Long Arrow, a Native American and esteemed naturalist. Doctor Dolittle, a kind-hearted animal rights activist, is the story's focal point, embodying compassion and a desire for peaceful coexistence with all living beings. This adventure tale also serves as a poignant appeal for environmental awareness. Readers encounter shipwrecks, South American and Mediterranean settings, and underwater explorations, including the discovery of a giant sea snail. Critics note that some passages may be politically incorrect by today’s standards, but it’s essential to remember the historical context of the book's writing over a century ago. Throughout the series, Lofting explores a rich variety of themes and ideas, complemented by his own illustration