"Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel" is a children's book written by Virginia Lee Burton. It tells the story of Mike Mulligan, a hardworking man who operates a steam shovel named Mary Anne. Together, they take on a big job to dig a cellar for a new town hall. As they work, Mike and Mary Anne face challenges, including the arrival of modern machinery. Despite this, they complete the job and find a new purpose for Mary Anne, showing the value of hard work and friendship. The story highlights themes of progress and the importance of adapting to change.