Check It Out
Books recommended for young readers by Ilene Abramson, senior librarian for the children’s literature department, Los Angeles Public Library:
Here are some books to set the tone for the scary, scary night of Halloween.
Preschool to first grade: “A Creepy Countdown,” by Charlotte Huck, illustrated by Jos. A. Smith
Counting to 10 with pictures of cats and ghosts.
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Second, third grade: “Fox Outfoxed,” by James Marshall
Fox takes his little sister trick or treating.
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Fourth grade: “Let’s Celebrate Halloween,” by Peter and Connie Roop, illustrated by Katy Keck Arnsteen
Poems, jokes and crafts about the holiday’s history.
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Fifth grade: “Creepy Crafts,” by Tina Vilicich-Solomon, illustrated by Bryan Baugh
Ghoulish gifts, deadly decorations.
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Read aloud: “A Newbery Halloween,” selected by Martin H. Greenberg and Charles G. Waugh.
Twelve award-winning authors on the scariest night.
Storytime
Some of the books to be read on KCET’s “Storytime,” Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
* “Tops and Bottoms,” adapted by Janet Stevens
A poor hare works out a deal to work a bear’s fields while the bear sleeps throughout the season. (Themes: resourcefulness and nature)
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* “Mirette on the High Wire,” by Emily Arnold McCully
Monsieur Bellini, a mysterious retired high-wire walker, teaches little Mirette to walk on the tightrope. (Themes: determination, caring/concern for others, friendship)
*
* “The Gullywasher,” by Joyce Rossi
While waiting for the gullywasher (a desert thunderstorm), Letitia learns of her grandfather’s past when he was a vaquero (cowboy). (Themes: family, imagination and nature)
More to Read
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