About This Book
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.
peril_danger
Discussion Prompts
1
What makes Mike and Mary Anne such a great team?
2
How did Mike feel when he couldn't find work for Mary Anne?
3
What does it mean to be 'useful'? How did Mary Anne find a new way to be useful?
4
Have you ever had to find a new way to use something old?
5
What do you think about the child's idea to help Mary Anne?
External Reviews
If Your Family Enjoyed This
Reviews
No reviews yet — be the first to share how this book landed with your family.