Check It Out

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

Science fiction--New Year’s promises are often expressed through books that reach out and stretch the imagination.

Preschool: “Hush, Little Alien,” by Daniel Kirk

To the rhythm of the song “Hush, Little Baby,” an alien child is promised a variety of space-related presents but ultimately settles for a good old human-type kiss.

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Kindergarten: “Time Train,” by Paul Fleischman, illustrated by Claire Ewart

Schoolchildren go back in time to visit the dinosaurs and study their habits.

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First and second grades: “Sector 7,” by David Wiesner

Inventive picture book about a creative child who visits cloud headquarters and rearranges the shapes so the sky is filled with an amazing spectacle.

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Third grade: “Commander Toad and the Planet of the Grapes,” by Jane Yolen, illustrated by Bruce Degen

One of a series of easy-to-read stories that features a crew of frogs finding adventure in outer space.

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Fourth grade: “My Robot Buddy,” by Alfred Slote, illustrated by Joel Schick

A 10-year-old gets a robot companion for his birthday.

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Fifth grade: “The Power of UN,” by Nancy Etchemendy

A boy has to undo the mistakes of the last few days to prevent a disaster.

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Sixth through eighth grades: “Tomorrowland: 10 Stories About the Future,” by Michael Cart

A collection of thought-provoking science fiction stories written by award-winning authors.