Kie
4 min readDec 7, 2023

1. About the book

Mary Poppins is a beloved children’s book written by P.L. Travers and first published in 1934. The book follows the fantastical adventures of a magical nanny named Mary Poppins who arrives on the doorstep of the Banks family in London. Mary is not your ordinary nanny. With her magical powers, she can slide up banisters, talk to animals, and even fly with an umbrella. She takes the Banks children, Jane and Michael, on extraordinary adventures, all while teaching them important life lessons along the way. Throughout the book, readers are transported into a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, where toys come to life, and where the power of imagination knows no bounds. From a tea party on the ceiling to a visit to a zoo in the park, Mary Poppins creates unforgettable moments for the children. But Mary is not just a magical nanny; she also has a unique personality.

She is stern and practical, yet also kind and caring. Despite her strict nature, she forms a special bond with the Banks children, teaching them to appreciate the wonders of life and encouraging them to see the magic that exists in even the most mundane things. P.L. Travers’ writing style is charming and whimsical, capturing the imagination of readers young and old. She weaves together enchanting tales with captivating characters, making Mary Poppins a timeless classic that has been cherished by generations. The book Mary Poppins is not only a delightful adventure but also a heartwarming tale of family, friendship, and the power of love and imagination. Whether you are a child or an adult, this book will transport you to a world where anything is possible and where the ordinary can become extraordinary.

2. Summary

Mary Poppins is a children’s book written by P.L. Travers and first published in 1934. The story revolves around the Banks family in London and their magical nanny, Mary Poppins. She mysteriously appears at their doorstep in response to an advertisement. Although she appears ordinary, Mary possesses extraordinary abilities and introduces the children, Jane and Michael, to a world of enchantment. Throughout the book, Mary Poppins takes the children on adventures and teaches them valuable life lessons.

Photo by Robert Collins on Unsplash

She introduces them to talking animals, takes them on outings to magical places, and even helps Mr. Banks, their father, reconnect with his own childhood. Mary Poppins is a strict but loving nanny who imposes a sense of order on the children’s lives. However, her methods are often unconventional. She uses her powers to bring inanimate objects to life, such as a magic tape measure that makes itself longer or shorter as needed. She also communicates with animals, such as a talking dog named Andrew, and has a magical bottomless carpet bag that can carry an infinite number of items. The book is a collection of eight individual adventures, each featuring different characters and settings.

Some of the adventures include a tea party inside a painting, a visit to a zoo with talking animals, and an encounter with a dancing governess named Miss Lark. Despite her occasional sternness, Mary Poppins genuinely cares for the Banks children and helps them overcome challenges while imparting wisdom and teaching them important life lessons. Through her magical interventions, Mary helps the children understand the importance of imagination, respect, and kindness. Overall, Mary Poppins is a timeless classic that combines whimsical storytelling with valuable life lessons. The book has captured the imaginations of generations of readers and has spawned a popular film adaptation.

3. Outline

I. Introduction
A. Overview of the author, P.L. Travers
B. Background of the Mary Poppins character
C. Setting: Cherry Tree Lane in London

II. The Banks Family
A. Mr. and Mrs. Banks
B. Children: Jane and Michael Banks
C. Nanny trouble and the arrival of Mary Poppins

III. Magical Adventures
A. Mary Poppins’ peculiar abilities
B. Floating with an umbrella and jumping into chalk drawings
C. Talking animals and magical encounters

IV. Life Lessons and Moral Values
A. Discipline and behavior
B. Responsibility and honesty
C. Importance of imagination and play

V. Supporting Characters
A. Bert, the chimney sweep
B. Mrs. Brill, the housekeeper
C. Uncle Albert and other eccentric relatives

VI. Challenges and Conflicts
A. The strict upbringing of the Banks children
B. External obstacles faced by Mary Poppins
C. Inner conflicts and personal growth

VII. Transformation and Redemption
A. Character development of the Banks family
B. Resolution of conflicts and personal challenges
C. Mary Poppins’ departure and its impact on the Banks family

VIII. Conclusion
A. Summary of the book
B. Impact and legacy of Mary Poppins
C. Relevance of the story in today’s society

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