What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedDolittle
Stephen Gaghan · Film · 2020
If you loved Dolittle, start with The Story of Doctor Dolittle (Hugh Lofting, 1948) — a book from the same story. Below: 4 books, 4 series and 2 podcasts, each matched to Dolittle across media.
If you loved Dolittle, you crave the blend of whimsical adventure, eccentric protagonists, and the restorative power of unconventional companionship.
Start with the source
Adaptation
Doctor Dolittle
Betty Thomas · Film · 1998
Books on the same thread
The Hobbit
J. R. R. Tolkien · Book · 1937
Explores: Good vs. Evil, Courage, The Hero's Journey.
Like the reluctant hero in Dolittle, Bilbo Baggins finds himself pulled from his comfortable home into a perilous, high-stakes quest that forces him to discover hidden personal courage.
My Family and Other Animals
Gerald Durrell · Book · 2019
Explores: Family, Childhood, Nature.
This memoir captures the same spirit of animal companionship found in Dolittle, focusing on an eccentric family navigating the natural world while creating their own unique, spirited home.
Stuart Little
Elwyn Brooks White, Garth Williams · Book · 1945
Explores: Identity, Belonging, Acceptance.
Much like the menagerie of Dolittle, this story celebrates the beauty of being different and finding one's place in a world that often struggles to accept the unconventional.
The Tale of Despereaux
Kate DiCamillo · Book · 2019
Explores: Courage, Love, Good vs Evil.
If the imaginative animal interactions of Dolittle appealed to you, this tale of a brave, music-loving mouse on a quest for justice offers a similarly charming, heart-centered adventure.
Series on the same thread
Sherlock
Mark Gatiss · Series · 2010
Explores: Genius detective, High-functioning sociopath, Unconventional crime solving.
Fans of the eccentric protagonist in Dolittle will appreciate this modern detective who uses his unique, unconventional mind to solve complex mysteries alongside a dedicated, grounded partner.
Shrinking
Brett Goldstein · Series · 2023
Explores: Grief, Therapy, Unconventional Methods.
This series mirrors the emotional journey of Dolittle by exploring how a man processes deep grief while attempting to rediscover his purpose through new, albeit chaotic, social connections.
Doctor Who
Sydney Newman · Series · 2005
Explores: Time Travel Paradoxes, Alien Encounters, Redemption.
The Doctor shares the same adventurous, nomadic spirit as Dolittle, traveling across the universe to heal wrongs and protect others through a mix of genius and boundless curiosity.
Bluey
Joe Brumm · Series · 2018
Explores: Family Relationships, Imaginative Play, Childhood Development.
If you enjoyed the playful, imaginative energy of Dolittle, you will love how this series turns everyday life into an extraordinary adventure through the eyes of a curious dog.
Podcasts on the same thread
Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend
Team Coco & Earwolf · Podcast · 2026
Explores: parasocial relationships, professional intimacy, self-deprecating humor.
This podcast explores the same themes of isolation and the search for authentic connection that drive the character of the lonely, sequestered veterinarian seen in Dolittle.
The Truth
The Truth · Podcast · 2026
Explores: human condition, experimental storytelling, moral ambiguity.
These cinematic audio stories capture the sense of wonder and episodic discovery found in Dolittle, providing listeners with a brand new world to explore in every single episode.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is Dolittle based on a book?
Yes, the character of Doctor Dolittle originated in literature. The 2020 movie draws inspiration from the classic series, most notably the 1948 edition of The Story of Doctor Dolittle, which established the eccentric veterinarian and his ability to communicate with animals as a literary icon.
How does the 2020 Dolittle compare to the 1998 movie?
While both films feature the character of Doctor Dolittle, they are distinct adaptations. The 1998 movie presents a different take on the veterinarian, whereas the 2020 version focuses on a Victorian-era adventure where the doctor must save the queen from a grave illness.
What is the premise of the 2020 Dolittle movie?
In the 2020 film, Doctor Dolittle is a recluse living in his manor with exotic animals following the death of his wife. He is forced to leave his isolation and embark on a voyage to a mythical island to find a cure for the sick young queen.
Should I read The Story of Doctor Dolittle before watching the 2020 film?
Reading the 1948 book, The Story of Doctor Dolittle, provides helpful context for the character's background and his unique relationship with animals. However, the 2020 movie functions as a standalone adventure story that does not require prior knowledge of the original source material to follow the plot.