Parents' Guide to

Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel

By Esther Ehrlich, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 4+

Teaches important lessons about faith, friendship.

Book Virginia Lee Burton Friendship 1939
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

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age 5+

Based on 2 parent reviews

JohnDavies
JohnDavies Adult
April 2, 2011
age 5+
This book has to have something about it to have remained in print for so many years. I read it, aged about 6, 52 years ago, and still remember it with great affection. The punning name for the shovel (for people unfamiliar with the real things, Mary Anne is a play on 'Marion', a famous steam-shovel builder) gives it a friendly personality and ties the whimsy in to reality. Great story, with a happy ending.
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

This classic story will have your kids cheering! Can Mike and his trusty steam shovel, Mary Anne, dig the cellar for the new town hall in just one day? This fun book, filled with energetic crayon illustrations, teaches kids important lessons about faith and friendship.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (2 ):
Kids say: Not yet rated

A family favorite for more than 60 years, this book is a reassuring slice of nostalgia. With a story as steady and reliable as Mary Anne, it gives kids the opportunity to anticipate what will happen next. Down-to-earth language, with repeating phrases, lets kids become comfortable with the text and join in. One adult who hadn't read the book since childhood was delighted to discover she still remembered key words.

The pictures support the aura of familiarity. No fussy, fancy artwork -- just crayon drawings of rectangular houses with smoke curling from the chimneys, and of the sun, a smiling yellow ball. With such a trustworthy delivery, you can rest assured your kids will absorb the important messages. MIKE MULLIGAN AND HIS STEAM SHOVEL suggests that kids aim high, work hard, and expect to fulfill their dreams.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about perseverance. Mike and Mary Anne don't give up -- they seek out challenges. Ask kids about challenges they've faced and how they persevered.

Book Details

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