Check It Out

Books recommended for young readers by Ilene Abramson, senior librarian, Los Angeles Public Library:

St. Patrick’s Day--Take advantage of this holiday to introduce the expansive collection of rich Irish folklore along with the history of the beautiful Emerald Isle.

Preschool--”Dear Old Donegal,” words and music by Steve Graham, illustrated by John O’Brien.

Sing along to the words and music provided in this frolicking romp of an emigre who has returned to his homeland.

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Kindergarten and first grade--”The King of Ireland’s Son,” by Brendan Behan, illustrated by P.J. Lynch.

A young man meets adventure and romance on his quest for the source of heavenly music in this traditional story retold by a renowned Irish writer.

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Second through fourth grades--”Saint Patrick,” by Ann Tompert, illustrated by Michael Garland.

St. Patrick’s life and role in Christianity is depicted through full page, brightly colored pictures.

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Fifth through seventh grades--”Tales of St. Patrick,” by Eileen Dunlop.

From his privileged life in Britain, to his servitude as slave, and through his ascension as religious leader, St. Patrick’s life is fleshed out in this book of historical fiction.

Storytime

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

* “Don’t Fidget a Feather,” by Erica Silverman

Duck and Gander are friends but are always competing with one another until one day when Duck must save Gander from ending up in Fox’s stew. (Theme: friendship.)

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* “The Hunter,” by Paul Geraghty

A young girl wanders too far into the forest and encounters a baby elephant whose mother has been killed by poachers. The girl decides to lead the baby elephant back to his herd. (Themes: family, nature and adventure.)

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* “Mole’s Hill,” by Lois Ehlert

A mole’s hill is keeping the fox and the raccoon from going to the watering hole. Mole decides to make his hill bigger and digs a tunnel for the other animals so that they can get to the water. (Themes: sharing, problem-solving, animals.)