It all begins in the small village of Puddleby-on-the Marsh. Here lives a kind-hearted physician whose love for animals is boundless. From crocodiles and owls, to pigs and mice, you will find all sorts of animals living happily in the Doctors home. And one fateful day, Doctor John Dolittle comes upon a remarkable secrethow to communicate with animals. So begins his veterinary practice, and his name and unusual talent become known to the world. When the monkey population in Africa needs his help, Doctor Dolittle embarks on this adventure without a moment's hesitation. But no adventure is without peril . . . What happens when Doctor Dolittle and his crew of animal friends get shipwrecked on their way to the monkey kingdom? The Story of Doctor Dolittle is the first in a series of books written by Hugh Lofting, all centred around the endearing doctor. A beloved childrens classic, it continues to be widely-read and appreciated by its readers.