Check It Out

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

Happy birthday on Wednesday to author Beverly Cleary, who has been entertaining children for generations.

Toddler: “The Hullabaloo ABC,” by Beverly Cleary, illustrated by Earl Thollander

Two siblings frolic on a farm, listening to the noises that start with the letters of the alphabet.

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Preschool and kindergarten: “Two Dog Biscuits,” by Beverly Cleary, illustrated by DyAnne DiSalvo-Ryan

In this gentle story, only the “right” pet will be awarded the dog biscuits that a brother and sister receive as a present.

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First and second grades: “Socks,” by Beverly Cleary, illustrated by Beatrice Darwin

Read aloud these delightful stories about the darling kitty that learns to share his “parents” with a new baby.

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Third and fourth grades: “Henry Huggins,” by Beverly Cleary, illustrated by Louis Darling

Nothing ever happens to Henry until he finds a mongrel with a predisposition for getting into trouble.

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Fifth grade: “The Mouse and the Motorcycle,” by Beverly Cleary, illustrated by Louis Darling

Children love the antics of Ralph the mouse, who zooms around the hotel where he lives, riding on a toy motorcycle.

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Sixth through eighth grades: “Sister of the Bride,” by Beverly Cleary, illustrated by Beth and Joe Krush

In this old-fashioned story, a teenager shares the excitement of her sister’s wedding arrangements but realizes that her own fun is just beginning.

Storytime

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

* “Mirette on the High Wire,” by Emily Arnold McCully

Monsieur Bellini, a mysterious retired tight-wire walker, teaches little Mirette to walk on the tightrope. But Mirette must help Monsieur Bellini overcome his own fear before they can become a successful new act. Themes: determination, caring for others, friendship

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* “The Gullywasher,” by Joyce Rossi

While waiting for the gullywasher (a desert thundershower), Letitia learns of her grandfather’s past when he was a vaquero--a cowboy. Themes: family legends, imagination, nature

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“Contrary Mary,” by Anita Jerarn

Mary the Mouse decides to do the opposite of what she is supposed to do, including dressing backward and walking on her hands. At night, her mother tucks her in upside down, kisses her toes and says good morning. Themes: cooperation, family, opposites