Check It Out

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

Gather the children together for hugs and kisses and books featuring today’s star: mother.

Toddlers: “On Mother’s Lap,” by Ann Herbert Scott, illustrated by Glo Coalson

Charming story of a toddler who cuddles up on mommy with all of his toys, coincidentally running out of room just when it is time for baby sister to share his space.

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Preschool and kindergarten: “Ma Dear’s Aprons,” by Patricia McKissack, illustrated by Floyd Cooper

Inspired by the true story of a single mother who made her living as a domestic worker in rural Alabama in the early 1900s, this tribute captures the essence of a life filled with hard work yet always laced with love and nurturing.

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First and second grades: “A High-Fiving Gift for Mom,” by Judy Bradbury, illustrated by Cathy Trachok

In this beginning arithmetic book, three brothers pool their money to buy gifts for Mother’s Day and in the process learn some addition and subtraction.

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Third grade: “George Washington’s Mother,” by Jean Fritz

Parents as well as children will get a kick out of this hilarious account of a fussy, parsimonious nag who happens to be the mother of George Washington.

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Fourth and fifth grades: “My Very Own Mother’s Day,” by Robin West

Train your children well and mother may be getting breakfast, teas and homemade presents all year round with the help of this craft and cooking book.

Storytime

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

* “Froggy Gets Dressed,” by Jonathan London

Froggy is eager to get dressed and play in the snow, but he keeps forgetting important pieces of clothing. (Themes: family, responsibility)

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* “Borreguita and the Coyote,” by Verna Aardema

A little lamb is able to outsmart a wolf who wants to eat her. (Themes: fairy tale, resourcefulness)

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* “Babushka’s Doll,” by Patricia Polacco

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