Check It Out

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

Martin Luther King Jr.--These books retell the story of a modern-day hero.

Preschool to second grade: “My Dream of Martin Luther King,” by Faith Ringgold

King’s biography, reinterpreted as the narrator’s dream.

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Third and fourth grade: “Martin Luther King Jr.,” by Lola M. Schaefer

Introductory biography for beginning readers.

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Fifth grade: “Dear Dr. King,” edited by Jan Colbert and Ann McMillan Harms

Letters from schoolchildren updating King on contemporary American society.

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Sixth to eighth grades: “Martin Luther King Jr.,” by John F. Wukovits

Good for school assignments, in-depth coverage.

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Read Aloud: “I Have a Dream,” by Martin Luther King Jr.

King’s most famous speech, illustrated by 15 African American artists.

Storytime

Some of the books to be read on KCET’s “Storytime,” weekdays at 12:30 p.m.

* “A Special Trade,” by Sally Wittman

Nellie takes care of Bartholomew, who is in a wheelchair. Themes: friendship, caring, concern for others.

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* “The Empty Pot,” by Demi

An emperor tests the honesty of children with flower seeds that will not grow. Themes: responsibility, nature.