READING: The ABCs of Helping Youngsters Achieve Literacy -- the First Skill : Check It Out

Books recommended for young readers by Ilene Abramson, senior librarian for the children’s literature department, Los Angeles Public Library:

Enjoy these books while you linger over the last few weeks of summer.

Preschool: “A Summery Saturday Morning,” by Margaret Mahy, illustrated by Selina Young

Follow frisky pups down to the sea in frolicking singsong verse.

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Kindergarten to first grade: “Lemonade Sun and Other Summer Poems,” by Rebecca Kai Dotlich, illustrated by Jan Spivey Gilchrist

Poems and pictures that celebrate the kick-back season when kids explore everyday marvels such as wildflowers, marbles, pinwheels and butterflies.

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Second to third grade: “Henry and Mudge in the Green Time,” by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Sucie Stevenson

Henry takes Mudge picnicking, bathing and pretending in this popular, easy reader.

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Fourth grade: “Mrs. Mack,” by Patricia Polacco

Summers spent with Mrs. Mack, a devoted equestrian, and Penny, the copper-colored mare, are re-created in this tribute to people who love horses.

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Fifth grade: “Navajo Summer,” by Jennifer Owings Dewey

Based on the author’s experience, this story relates how a 12-year-old girl runs away to live with a Navajo family after her parents tell her they are getting divorced.

Storytime

Some of the books to be read on KCET’s “Storytime,” Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

* “Babushka’s Doll,” by Patricia Polacco

A little girl learns to become more patient with the help of her grandmother’s doll. Themes: fantasy, responsibility.

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* “Ruby, the Copy Cat,” by Peggy Rathmann

Ruby, the new girl in school, tries to fit in by copying everything that Angela does and says. Themes: friendship, individuality.

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* “Baby Rattlesnake,” by Te Ata and Lynn Moroney

A young rattlesnake begs for his own rattle, but he uses it unwisely. Themes: responsibility, feelings.