Check It Out

Books recommended for young readers by Susan Patron, senior librarian, Los Angeles Public Library:

Adventure books excite the imagination and allow us to have many daring experiences without having to risk our necks. These are the kinds of books that make children want to read.

Babies and toddlers: “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt,” by Michael Rosen.

This interactive bear hunt isn’t scary, but it is a lot of fun.

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Preschoolers: “Sam and the Tigers,” by Julius Lester.

Sam must trick the tigers who want to eat him. Exciting pictures by Jerry Pinkney.

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Kindergarten: “Hog-Eye,” by Susan Meddaugh.

Reading is really useful, especially when you have to deal with a hungry wolf.

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First and second grades: “The Golly Sisters Go West,” by Betsy Byars.

May-May’s hair is squashed, the horse won’t dance, and they really are lost. Funny adventure series for independent readers.

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Third grade: “The Three Princes: A Tale From the Middle East,” by Eric Kimmel.

What’s worth more: a crystal ball, a flying carpet or an orange? Dramatic illustrations by Leonard Everett Fisher.

Storytime

Some of the books to be read on KCET’s “Storytime,” Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

* “Rose Meets Mr. Wintergarten,” by Bob Graham.

Rose has been warned to stay away from her scary neighbor, Mr. Wintergarten, but when her ball flies over the fence, she finds a way to make him a friend. (Themes: friendship, feelings.)

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* “Chicken Sunday,” by Patricia Palacco.

Natasha describes her wonderful Sundays with neighbors Stuart and Ninnie and their grandma, Miss Eula. (Themes: family caring, concern for others, differences, resourcefulness.)

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* “Alistair’s Elephant,” by Marilyn Sadler.

Alistair is a very meticulous and tidy boy, but his world becomes a little disorganized when an elephant follows him home from the zoo. (Themes: fantasy, problem-solving.)