Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel. Virginia Lee Burton

Embark on a timeless adventure with *Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel*, a beloved children's classic by Virginia Lee Burton! First published in 1939 and cherished for generations, this heartwarming tale tells the story of Mike Mulligan and his trusty steam shovel, Mary Anne, a dynamic duo facing the challenges of a rapidly changing world. Mike and Mary Anne were once the go-to team for digging great canals, railroads, highways, skyscraper foundations, and even landing fields for aeroplanes. Their powerful steam engine and Mike's unwavering skill made them the best in the business. However, as technology advances, gasoline, diesel, and electric shovels threaten to make Mary Anne obsolete. The prospect of Mary Anne being sold for scrap looms large, filling Mike with despair. He refuses to abandon his loyal companion. Determined to prove Mary Anne's worth, Mike seeks out one last job: digging the cellar for the new town hall in Popperville. He boasts that Mary Anne can complete the task in just one day, a challenge that captures the town's attention. The entire town, including the children, watches with bated breath as Mike and Mary Anne begin their monumental dig. They dig and dig, faster than anyone has seen before. Just when they complete the cellar on time, they realize that they forgot to leave a way for Mary Anne to get *out* of the hole! Faced with this unexpected predicament, Mike needs to come up with something special. Using his wit, Mike concocts a clever plan that not only saves Mary Anne from the scrap heap but also finds her a new and meaningful purpose within the community. This surprising and happy ending celebrates ingenuity, loyalty, and the enduring value of hard work. Virginia Lee Burton's distinctive illustrations, rendered in gray crayon, perfectly capture the charm and energy of the story. Her artwork brings Mike, Mary Anne, and the town of Popperville to life, making the book a visually engaging experience for young readers. The illustrations convey the steam shovel's power but also its almost human personality, contributing to the overall warmth of the story. This edition, published by Frances Lincoln Childrens Books, ensures that this classic tale continues to captivate new audiences. *Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel* is more than just a children's book; it's a celebration of the human spirit, the beauty of simple machines, and the importance of friendship and perseverance. This story offers valuable lessons about adapting to change, finding creative solutions, and the enduring power of loyalty. A must-have addition to any child's bookshelf, this book is guaranteed to be read and treasured for years to come. Perfect for children aged 3-7, as a read-aloud or for beginning readers. It sparks imagination and encourages children to appreciate the world around them.