Check It Out

Books recommended for young readers by Susan Patron, senior librarian, Los Angeles Public Library:

Biography--Well-written biographies and autobiographies give children insight into individuals who have made a difference in the world and a chance to think about the kind of life they want to live.

Kindergarten: “Author, a True Story,” written and illustrated by Helen Lester.

Using minimal text and funny, childlike illustrations, a popular children’s book author tells how she became a writer against all odds.

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First grade: “Mr. Lincoln’s Whiskers,” written and illustrated by Karen Winnick.

The true story of a determined girl who wrote to Abraham Lincoln, suggesting that he grow a beard.

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Second grade: “Bill Pickett, Rodeo-Ridin’ Cowboy,” by Andrea Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney.

Exciting story of a feisty cowboy-child, who grew up to be the most famous black rodeo performer who ever lived. Dramatic, dazzling illustrations.

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Third grade: “With Open Hands: A Story About Biddy Mason,” by Jeri Chase Ferris, illustrated by Ralph Ramstad.

An award-winning author recounts the life of the remarkable Biddy Mason, a slave who found freedom in 1856 and eventually became a wealthy landowner in Los Angeles.

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Fourth and fifth grades: “Mary on Horseback,” by Rosemary Wells.

Moving stories of families who were helped by Mary Breckinridge, the first nurse to go into the Appalachian Mountains and give medical care to the isolated inhabitants.

Storytime

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

* “The Fortune-Tellers,” by Lloyd Alexander.

A carpenter who is told he will be happy and rich by a fortuneteller passes this prophecy to others. (Theme: fairy tale.)

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* “Effie,” by Beverly Allinson.

Effie’s loud voice causes problems for other ants until she uses it to warn others. (Themes: nature, problem-solving, differences.)

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* “Rosie’s Baby Tooth,” by Maryann MacDonald.

Rosie is reluctant to give her tooth to the tooth fairy until she receives a good offer. (Themes: family identity, growing up.)