Check It Out

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

Get those reluctant readers ready to try these books with “kid appeal.”

Preschool: “Clifford’s Big Book of Things to Know,” by Norman Bridwell

A large, lovable red canine hosts discussion of a variety of subjects including the seashore, astronomy, the body and animals.

*

Kindergarten and first grade: “Walter Wick’s Optical Tricks,” by Walter Wick

Share this book with your child and have him point out the tricks in these brain teasers.

*

Second and third grades: “The Titanic: Lost . . . and Found,” by Judy Donnelly, illustrated by Keith Kohler

A beginner’s nonfiction book that captures the essence of the disaster, then relates the discovery of the vessel years later.

*

Fourth grade: “Insectlopedia,” by Douglas Florian

Bugs of all types are artistically portrayed in poems and watercolors.

*

Fifth grade: “The Roman Empire,” by Peter Chrisp

This interactive book from the Make It Work! series adds instructions for making authentic clothes, food and games to the story of the history of Rome.

*

Sixth to eighth grades: “Atlas of Threatened Cultures,” edited by Paul Mason

Explore the world of endangered traditions in this fascinating account of ethnic erosion.

Storytime

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

* “Going Home,” by Margaret Wild

Hugo is sick and confined to the hospital. Hugo’s room overlooks the zoo, and each night a new animal takes him for an adventure. Themes: imagination, feelings, adventure.

*

* “Ollie Knows Everything,” by Abby Levine

During a trip to New York City, Ollie is separated from his family, but later finds a way to get back to the hotel. Themes: family, feelings and problem-solving.

*

* “Prize in the Snow,” by Bell Easterling

A young boy, eager to be a great hunter, sets out to trap a rabbit. But when he finds a skinny and cold rabbit, he decides to feed it instead. Themes: caring and concern for others, nature.

BOOK EVENTS

Tuesday: Jeri Ferris, author of “With Open Hands,” “What I Had Was Singing” and numerous other biographies for children; 4:15 p.m., Los Angeles City Library Fairfax Branch, 161 S. Gardner St.