Check It Out

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

These series books are requested repeatedly by children, sparking their interest in reading for pleasure.

Preschool: “Arthur� series, by Marc Brown

Children relate to Arthur the aardvark’s insecurities and rejoice when he finds workable solutions to all his problems.

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Kindergarten and first grade: “The Magic School Bus� series, by Joanna Cole

Whether blasting through space or spinning down a small intestine, the magic bus takes Ms. Frizzle’s class on science field trips that are lively and informative.

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Second and third grades: “Henry and Mudge� series, by Cynthia Rylant

These beginning chapter books concentrate on the love of a little boy and his devoted pooch.

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Fourth grade: “American Girl� series, by various authors

Each character in this series enjoys her own historical period and shares her era with the reader.

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Fifth grade: “Wishbone Mysteries,� by various authors

Based on the television show, these fast-paced mysteries feature an adventure-loving dog that sniffs out clues to solve the crimes.

Storytime

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

“The Itsy Bitsy Spider,� by Iza Trapani

An illustrated version of the popular song. After a series of unsuccessful climbs, the spider finally makes it to the top of the maple tree. (Themes: nature, music.)

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“The Woman Who Outshone the Sun,� based on a poem by Alejandro Cruz Martinez

A beautiful woman, ousted from a small town, takes the town’s beloved river with her. (Themes: fairy tale, differences.)

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“Slither McCreep and His Brother Joe,� by Tony Johnston

Slither the snake and his brother Joe have an argument over their toys. Slither decides to break all of the toys, but afterward, regrets his action and finds a way to replace them. (Themes: family, sharing, responsibility.)