
Virginia Lee Burton's classic picture book tells the story of Mike Mulligan and his faithful steam shovel, Mary Anne. As newer, faster machines emerge, Mike and Mary Anne struggle to find work, until they accept a seemingly impossible challenge: digging a town hall cellar in a single day. This heartwarming tale explores themes of loyalty, perseverance, and adapting to change, culminating in a clever solution that ensures Mike and Mary Anne remain together and useful to their community. It's a wonderful story for discussing the value of older things and finding new purpose.
Mike Mulligan proves that, although dated, his steam shovel is still useful.