Check It Out

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

Man’s best friends are dogs and books.

Toddlers: “Walk the Dog,” by Bob Barner

A variety of dogs express exuberance in bright, splashy pictures.

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Preschool: “Clifford’s Good Deeds,” by Norman Bridwell

It’s all fun and laughter when Clifford, the big red dog, decides to be a community helper.

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Kindergarten through first grade: “The Adventures of Taxi Dog,” by Debra and Sal Barracca, illustrated by Mark Buehner

Maxi the dog rides around New York all day in a taxi, meeting interesting people and enjoying the sights.

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Second and third grades: “Harry and the Lady Next Door,” by Gene Zion, illustrated by Margaret Bloy Graham

A very funny story about the dog who does everything in his power to stop his annoying neighbor from singing excruciatingly high notes.

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Fourth grade: “Ribsy,” by Beverly Cleary, illustrated by Louis Darling

Humorous misadventures of a lost dog who must find his way home to his master, Henry Huggins

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Fifth grade: “Star in the Storm,” by Joan Hiatt Harlow

It is 1912 and a law has been passed in Newfoundland against non-sheepherding dogs, but Maggie hides her pooch until he is called upon to rescue passengers on a sinking steamer.

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Read aloud: “Dog People,” by Joseph Bruchac, illustrated by Murv Jacob

These adventures from Native American folklore have children and canines pitted against the elements.