Check It Out

Books recommended for young readers by Ilene Abramson, senior librarian for the Children’s Literature Department, Los Angeles Public Library:

Although the lifestyles may be different than ours, the human spirit transcends time.

Preschool and kindergarten: “Taking Charge” by Sonia Levitin, illustrated by Cat Bowman Smith

Taking care of babies was no easier 100 years ago, as Amanda discovers when she is left in charge of her sibling and all the housework.

*

First and second grade: “A Place Called Freedom” by Scott Russell Sanders, illustrated by Thomas B. Allen

A family of former slaves builds a town in Indiana where everyone can farm, go to school and live in harmony.

*

Third and fourth grade: “The Ballad of the Pirate Queens” by Jane Yolan, illustrated by David Shannon

This story of pirates Anne Bonney and Mary Reade captures the mood of mystery and whets the appetite for more seafaring adventure.

*

Fifth grade: “Orphan Runaways” by Kristina Gregory

During the California Gold Rush, two brothers confront their prejudices when their uncle marries a Chinese woman.

*

Sixth grade: “Foster’s War” by Carolyn Reeder

An 11-year-old boy grows up when his brother joins the military, his best friend is sent to an internment camp and his father struggles with family issues.

Story Time

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

* “Turnip Soup” by Lynne Born Myers and Christopher Myers

George faces a troublesome Komodo dragon that has slithered into his family’s root cellar and is eating all of their vegetables. Themes: fantasy, feelings of fear

*

* “Yo! Yes!” by Chris Raschka

Two boys, one black and one white, meet on the street and become friends. Themes: friendship, respect

*

* “In the Rain With Baby Duck” by Amy Hest

It’s a rainy day and that makes Baby mad. Baby’s parents worry: Whoever heard of a duck that does not like the rain? So grandpa helps Baby find ways to love the rain. Themes: nature, fantasy