Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel (named Mary Anne) are just as beloved by today’s generation of children as they were in the 1930s!
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton. HMH, 2014 (originally published 1939). 56 pages.
- Reading Level: Picture Books, Ages 4-8
- Recommended for: Ages 0-8
Beloved Mike Mulligan and his trusty steam shovel, Mary Anne, turn 85 years old this year**; rather than showing their age, Mike and Mary Anne continue to delight new readers.
The famous duo demonstrates that friendship, hard work, and a cheerful attitude ensure that no one is obsolete. Mary Anne’s fellow steam shovels are quickly being relegated to junk yards as progress and gas and diesel engines take over. Not Mary Anne! Mike boldly maintains that Mary Anne can “dig as much in a day as 100 men can dig in a week!” Sure enough, with the townspeople cheering them on, Mike and Mary Anne dig the basement of the new town hall in one day! The twist at the ending is perfect.
Burton’s text has just the right amount of repetition to delight young listeners as well as to reassure newly independent readers. Cheerful illustrations provide much in which to delight. Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel is a great choice for both preschoolers and those just learning to read on their own.
Bottom line: This is one classic picture book that withstands the test of time. Add it to your home library today!
*indicates a starred review. **Post was originally published in 2014; it has been lightly edited for 2024.
Related Reading at Redeemed Reader:
- Book Review: Each Peach Pear Plum is another classic picture book worth checking out.
- Book Review: Choo Choo, also by Virginia Lee Burton, is another vintage book to seek out.
- Resource: Celebrating Virginia Lee Burton, a reflection by Megan.
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