Books recommended for young readers by Ilene...

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

Fourth of July--Share these books about American patriots and their sacrifices during wartime.

Preschool and kindergarten: “Jezebel’s Spooky Spot,” by Alice and Kent Ross, illustrated by Ted Rand

When her father goes off to war, Jezebel learns that it takes strength and courage to be without him.

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First and second grades: “Drummer Boy,” by Ann Turner, illustrated by Mark Hess

A sobering look at war from the viewpoint of a 13-year-old.

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Third grade: “Pink and Say,” by Patricia Polacco

The poignant tale of a black man who befriends and saves the life of a Union soldier, only to encounter Confederate troops later himself.

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Fourth grade: “Airplanes of World War II,” by Nancy Robinson Masters

Elementary introduction to a popular subject.

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Fifth and sixth grades: “Angels of Mercy,” by Betsy Kuhn

Recollections of the hardships, camaraderie and amusements of the Army Nurse Corps.

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Seventh and eighth grades: “A Date With Destiny: The Women in Military Service for America Memorial,” by Brent Ashabranner, photographs by Jennifer Ashabranner

The history of women in the armed forces provides a backdrop for a story about the Arlington, Va., memorial.

Storytime

Some of the books to be read on KCET-TV Channel 28’s “Storytime,” weekdays at 12:30 p.m.

* “Prize in the Snow,” by Bill Easterling

A young boy, eager to be a great hunter, sets out to trap a rabbit but, once he does, discovers his prey looks skinny and cold. The young boy feeds the rabbit and promises that he’ll bring more food the following day. Themes: caring, concern for others, nature.

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* “Time Train,” by Paul Fleischman

Young students take an exciting train ride through history, back to the Civil War and the age of dinosaurs. Themes: family, imagination, nature.

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* “Sheila Rae, the Brave,” by Kevin Henkes

One day, the brave Sheila Rae gets lost on her way home, but her sister helps them both find their way back. Themes: family, siblings, feelings of fear and courage.

BOOK EVENTS

Selected visits at Los Angeles Public Library branches

* Thursday: Jeri Chase Ferris, author of “With Open Hands,” “What I Had Was Singing” and other biographies for children; 3 p.m. Robertson Branch Library, 1719 S. Robertson Blvd.