The next in my reads of the Newbery winners, this book was okay. It wasn't boring like some, but it was kind of random. I like the Doctor for the most part; his view of animals and natural sciences is refreshing for the time. However, the white savior and colonialism got to be too much near the end. And the racism of both Bumpo and Long Arrow was galling, especially Bumpo's constant mispronunciations. And personally, I kind of hate Polynesia the Parrot.

A fun little children’s classic. The Voyages of Dr. Dolittle really only tells the story of one voyage, to a tropical floating island in search of another mysterious naturalist and a giant sea snail. But the book is so full of smaller, quicker mysteries and adventures that the story feels quick-paced and engaging.

The book has not aged perfectly well. Despite some edits, hints of colonialism and racism remain even in the edited edition. Younger readers may not notice this, but it’s problematic and takes away from the fun of the Doctor’s adventures.

Trying to get through all the never-read-before-(or recently) Newbery winners by 2022.

It took me a month and a half to read this. Pretty rough. The excitement for adventure and the snarky parrot were pretty great, but mostly it was a bit of a slog. My copy had been sanitized of the racism of the original, but the sense of empire building is still presented loud and strong.

Wow is this book racist. Could have been a good story. Did lead to conversations between me and the kid.

This is just one of those stories you think you know, whether you've read the books or seen any movies. I'm pretty sure I've never read any of them and I was missing out. It was entertaining, well-paced, and rather funny. Glad I decided to read all the Newbery winners (in order) so I "had" to read it.

I've read Doctor Dolittle stories when I was a kid, adorable story.

1923 Newbery

Very fun and lively book. Old-fashioned but not in a bad way.

DNF at 71%. Just no. Felt like a book that an elementary student just made up with no understanding of animals or people or society.