When Bertie won't race with him and the Fat Controller sends him to the Steamworks, Thomas thinks he's not a Really Useful Engine anymore. But little does he know that the Fat Controller and the rest of Thomas' friends are planning a party to celebrate his birthday! Thomas has been teaching children lessons about life and friendship for over 70 years. He ranks alongside other beloved character such as Paddington Bear, Winnie-the-Pooh and Peter Rabbit as an essential part of our literary heritage.