Pronunciation: [dˈə͡ʊdi smˈɪθ] (IPA) 
Dodie Smith, the beloved author of "101 Dalmatians," is pronounced as "dɒdi smɪθ" in IPA phonetic transcription. The spelling of her name is straightforward, with "Dodie" written as it sounds and "Smith" following the common English spelling rules. The "o" in "Dodie" is pronounced as "ɒ," which is similar to the "o" sound in "hot." Meanwhile, the "i" in "Smith" is pronounced as "ɪ," similar to the "i" in "bit."
Dodie Smith was an English novelist and playwright, best known for her works in the mid-20th century. Born as Dorothy Gladys Smith on May 3, 1896, in Whitefield, Greater Manchester, she later adopted the nickname "Dodie." Smith's literary contributions encompassed a variety of genres, including children's literature, comedy, and romance.
Her first novel, "I Capture the Castle," published in 1948, quickly gained recognition and critical acclaim. Set in the 1930s, the story revolves around seventeen-year-old Cassandra Mortmain, who documents her eccentric family's lives in a dilapidated castle. Smith's adept storytelling and engaging characters, combined with her wit and charm, made the novel a classic of English literature.
Another notable work by Dodie Smith was "The Hundred and One Dalmatians," published in 1956. This beloved children's novel follows the adventures of Pongo and Missis, two Dalmatians, as they embark on a journey to rescue their stolen puppies from the villainous Cruella de Vil. The book's success led to an animated Disney adaptation in 1961 and several subsequent film adaptations.
Smith's reputation as a playwright also flourished, with numerous successful plays staged in London's West End. Her most famous play, "Dear Octopus," premiered in 1938 and ran for over a year. Smith's ability to create memorable characters and devise clever plots showcased her talent as a truly versatile writer.
Dodie Smith's contributions to literature continue to entertain and captivate readers, showcasing her ability to masterfully weave imaginative tales and create characters that resonate with audiences of all ages. Her works remain timeless classics, ensuring that her legacy as an influential British author endures.
"Dodie Smith" is not a word, but a name. It does not have an etymology in the traditional sense as it is a combination of two names. "Dodie" is a nickname for Dorothy, usually derived from the English name meaning "gift of God". "Smith" is an English surname that originally referred to a person who worked with metal, particularly as a blacksmith.
