"The Littlest Leaguer" combines simple sentences and an engaging plot with a subject many children can relate to, making it ideal for newly independent readers.

Beginning readers need access to books that are easy and interesting. Such books instill confidence. Reading confidence leads to enjoyment, and enjoyment leads not only to an interest in reading but a willingness to tackle more difficult reading materials.

Just like toddlers who want to read the same book over and over again, beginning readers often gravitate to the same book for independent reading. There's nothing wrong with this, even if the book is below their reading ability. Don't pressure the child into reading books that they will struggle and stumble over. Advancing to more difficult reading materials will come as the child is ready.

Independent reading outside of the classroom should be for fun. That's what you'll find in today's reviewed books — an engaging story line, illustrations, and easy, accessible writing. Check out these titles and ask your librarian and bookseller for more suggestions. With your help, every child can experience reading success, and that spells success across the board.

The following book is available at many public libraries.<B>"Minnie and Moo and the Potato from Planet X"</B> written and illustrated by Denys Cazet; Harper Trophy; 48 pages; read aloud: age 4 and older; read yourself: age 7 to 8.The zany, delightful cows, Minnie and Moo, were laying in the tall grass when something came shooting out of the sky and crash-landed right in front of them. It was Spud, a one-eyed potato delivery man for Universal Package Service.Spud explained that he was from Planet X, and he was making an important delivery of Anti-Bump Cream, used to prevent the planets from bumping into one another. Spud ran out of space fuel, crashed his ship, and now needs a new spaceship and five gallons of space fuel. Can Minnie and Moo help Spud save the universe?Hilarious, easy reading combines with funny illustrations, making this selection perfect for independent readers.

<B>Library:</B> Madison-Jefferson County Public Library, 420 West Main St., Madison<B>Library Director:</B> Charlene Abel<B>Children's Librarian:</B> Brenda S. Evans<B>Choices this week:</B> <B>"Magic Hat"</B> by Mem Fox; <B>"Bad Boys" </B>by Margie Palatini; <B>"Mr. Wolf's Pancakes"</B> by Jan Fearnley

The following books are available at favorite bookstores.<B>"The Littlest Leaguer"</B> written and illustrated by Syd Hoff; HarperCollins, 2008; 48 pages; $16.99 hardcover; read aloud: age 4 and older; read yourself: age 6 to 8.Of all the players in the little league, Harold was the littlest. Despite how hard Harold tried, Coach Lombardi finally said the only place he could put Harold was on the bench.As the season rolled along, Harold was tired of sitting on the bench, and he was tired of being so little.One day, during an important game, player Big Leon stepped in a hole and twisted his ankle. Coach Lombardi told Harold it was all up to him. The score was nothing to nothing, the bases were loaded, the pinch hitters were sick from too many cold drinks, and their team needed Harold to bat for the team and bring the team to victory.Simple sentences, engaging plot, and a subject many children can relate to, "The Littlest Leaguer" is a terrific choice for newly independent readers.<B>"Andy Shane and the Queen of Egypt"</B> by Jennifer Richard Jacobson; illustrated by Abby Carter; Candlewick, 2008; 58 pages; $13.99 hardcover; read aloud: age 5 and older; read yourself: age 7 to 8.Andy wants to pick Egypt for his Culture Fair project. The day the students are to announce their choice of country, Dolores arrives to class in her homemade Egyptian outfit. Dolores insists that she is the Queen of Egypt, but then asks Andy if they could work together on the project. Andy isn't so certain he wants to work with Dolores or anyone. But Dolores won't take no for an answer. Will the two friends be able to find a way to cooperate?The persistent Dolores and the hesitant Andy provide the perfect backdrop for this book on relationships and cooperation. Filled with humor, short chapters, illustrations and a good message, this choice is lots of fun.