Check It Out

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

As we enter a new century, let’s experience a bit of the past.

Preschool to kindergarten

“Dinosaur Dream,” by Dennis Nolan: Boy travels back in time, learns about dinosaurs.

First and second grades

“Aunt Harriet’s Underground Railroad in the Sky,” by Faith Ringgold: Underground railroad to Canada with Harriet Tubman.

Third grade

“Gary Chalk’s Hide & Seek in History,” by Gary Chalk: Ancient Egypt, a Viking settlement and the French Revolution.

Fourth grade

“The Good, the Bad, and the Goofy,” by Jon Scieszka, illustrated by Lane Smith: Misadventures of the Time Warp Trio.

Fifth grade

“The Merlin Effect,” by T.A. Barron: Kate is drawn into a whirlpool.