Recommended for: Primary Years (K-3rd)

Create lasting connections through this rich story while you study themes such as science, nature, geography, history, and language arts. This four-week book study is a digital download you can use in your homeschool or as book study with a group. Each download includes:

• The Story of Doctor Dolittle Book Study with weekly lesson plans, recipes, and more
• The Story of Doctor Dolittle Book Report Template
• The Story of Doctor Dolittle Extension Book List
• Multimedia Reference Materials links
• Book Club Meet-up Guide

Overview of The Story of Doctor Dolittle

The Story of Dr. Dolittle follows the adventures of a kind-hearted physician known for his rare ability to communicate with animals. Guided by deep compassion, he is devoted to caring for creatures of all kinds. When he learns that monkeys in Africa are in trouble, he sets out without hesitation to help them. Along the way, he faces challenges and unexpected adventures that show his courage, empathy, and unwavering commitment to the animals in his care.

Themes in The Story of Doctor Dolittle

There are many themes in The Story of Doctor Dolittle you will explore through videos, notebooking, and projects. Explore any themes more in-depth that really stick out to you or spark the interests of your children.

• Animals
• Animal Communication
• Travel & Exploration
• Kindness to Animals
• Veterinarian
• Friendship
• Teamwork

*The book is not included, get the book here. 

Recommended Edition Note
For this study guide, we recommend using the Dover Children’s Classics edition (1988) of The Story of Doctor Dolittle. This edition thoughtfully preserves all the wonder, charm, and rich storytelling of Hugh Lofting’s classic tale while providing a gentle, wholesome, family-friendly text that is ideal for read-alouds and independent young readers.

Book Disclaimer

As this book was written in 1945, it contains references to both tobacco and snuff. While these mentions are minor and not central to the narrative, they reflect the social norms of the era in which the story was originally published.