Explore Hugh Lofting books at New West Press.

Hugh Lofting's The Story of Doctor Dolittle imagines what might happen when a physician learns to understand animals directly. John Dolittle's changing practice opens the way to unusual companionship and far-reaching adventures. Communication becomes both a source of comedy and a means of crossing boundaries that ordinarily seem fixed. This collection centers on the beginning of the Doctor Dolittle stories. Readers can enjoy the inventiveness of the premise while noticing the period setting and attitudes of the original tale, and discussing how listening changes the relationships between its characters.

For shared reading, pause over a surprising choice, an unfamiliar word, or a change in a character's fortunes. These moments give children room to make predictions and explain what they notice. Independent readers can enjoy the story at their own pace, while families can return to favorite passages together. Browse the listed editions to plan a next chapter for your home library.