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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Doctor De Soto summary
William Steig
Brief summary
Doctor De Soto is a charming children's book by William Steig. It tells the story of a mouse dentist who outsmarts a sly fox by showing kindness and cleverness. It teaches valuable lessons about compassion and wit.
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Doctor De Soto
Summary of key ideas
Introducing Doctor De Soto
In Doctor De Soto by William Steig, we are introduced to the titular character, Doctor De Soto, a mouse who is a dentist. He lives with his wife, Mrs. De Soto, and together they run a dental practice for animals of all shapes and sizes. The De Sotos are known for their exceptional dental skills and their compassionate nature, but there's one rule they strictly adhere to: they never treat dangerous animals who may harm them.
One day, a fox with a terrible toothache shows up at their doorstep, begging for help. Despite their initial reservations, the De Sotos decide to take pity on the fox and agree to treat him. They successfully remove the aching tooth and send the fox on his way, reminding him to pay them once his toothache is gone.
The Fox Returns
However, the fox returns the next day, his mouth stuffed with food, ready to eat the De Sotos. They quickly come up with a clever plan to save themselves. Doctor De Soto constructs a fake tooth for the fox to replace the one they pulled out, and they manage to escape the fox's clutches. The fox, none the wiser, leaves, believing that he has successfully deceived the mice.
Despite the danger the fox poses, Doctor De Soto is determined to help him, as they have already treated him and they cannot abandon their patient. They continue to treat the fox and replace his fake tooth, all the while devising a plan to outsmart him.
The De Sotos' Ingenious Plan
Doctor De Soto creates a final replacement tooth for the fox, but this time, the tooth is made of heavy gold. When the fox returns for his appointment, the De Sotos convince him that they need to cement the gold tooth in place, rendering him unable to open his mouth for several days. During this time, they construct a tiny hot air balloon and use it to fly out of the fox's reach, escaping his clutches once again.
With the fox left behind, the De Sotos look down from their balloon and see the fox angrily shaking his fist at them. They return home, safe and sound, and relieved that they managed to outwit the sly fox. They also receive a payment from the fox in the form of a bag of gold coins, which he had intended to use to pay for his treatment.
A Tale of Kindness and Ingenuity
In conclusion, Doctor De Soto is a heartwarming and clever tale about kindness, ingenuity, and the triumph of the underdog. Despite the fox's initial intentions to harm them, the De Sotos remain compassionate and continue to treat their patient, all the while using their wit and resourcefulness to outsmart him. The story ends on a positive note, with the De Sotos safe and the fox ironically paying for his own treatment with the very gold tooth that was meant to trap him. It's a delightful reminder that one should never underestimate the power of a small, clever, and kind-hearted mouse.
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What is Doctor De Soto about?
Doctor De Soto is a delightful children's book about a mouse who is also a dentist. Written and illustrated by William Steig, it tells the story of Doctor De Soto and his assistant/wife as they treat various animals, including a sly fox. The book is filled with humor, cleverness, and beautiful illustrations, making it a joy to read for both kids and adults.
Doctor De Soto Review
Doctor De Soto (1982) tells the story of a mouse dentist who bravely treats a fox despite the danger. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It showcases the bravery and cleverness of the mouse dentist, making it both heartwarming and inspiring.
- The book emphasizes the importance of kindness and helping others, teaching valuable lessons in a subtle and engaging way.
- With its humorous and suspenseful storyline, it keeps readers captivated from start to finish, proving that even the smallest creatures can be mighty.
Who should read Doctor De Soto?
Children who enjoy stories with anthropomorphic animal characters
Parents and educators looking for a book that teaches empathy and kindness
Readers who appreciate charming illustrations and clever storytelling
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Book summaries like Doctor De Soto
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Doctor De Soto FAQs
What is the main message of Doctor De Soto?
The main message of Doctor De Soto is about kindness, empathy, and clever problem-solving.
How long does it take to read Doctor De Soto?
Reading Doctor De Soto takes a short time. The Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is Doctor De Soto a good book? Is it worth reading?
Doctor De Soto is a delightful read. Its charming story and lessons make it worth the read.
Who is the author of Doctor De Soto?
The author of Doctor De Soto is William Steig.
What to read after Doctor De Soto?
If you're wondering what to read next after Doctor De Soto, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright