'Where's Spot?' pops up again among other fun reads

There's no shortage of fun reads available for all ages. Now in bookstores, a number of new picture books — including the 30th anniversary edition of a classic — are likely to catch the eye of even the most discerning young reader.

"WHERE'S SPOT?" by Eric Hill, Putnam Juvenile, $12.99 (ages baby-preschool)

One of the first books readers may remember from their childhoods, "Where's Spot?" is turning 30 this year, and Putnam Juvenile is celebrating with plush, DVDs and, of course, books.

Created by graphic designer Eric Hill, Spot is a lovable puppy known to children around the world.

Sally is searching for Spot at mealtime, and children can help her look for him by lifting the flaps to see where the puppy is hiding.

Bright illustrations and interactive flaps make this classic a smart read for preschoolers. Thirty years after its debut, "Where's Spot?" is still as charming and engaging as the day it was released.

"LADYBUG GIRL AT THE BEACH," by Jacky Davis and David Soman, Dial, $16.99 (ages 3-5)

Lulu loves the beach — she's never been there, but she's sure she'll love it. She can't wait to go swimming, and the sand is warm under her feet. But when Lulu gets to the water, it's not anything like she expected. It's big and makes roaring sounds.

Good thing Lulu likes playing in the sand. She builds a giant castle and flies her kite with her dog, Bingo.

When the ocean comes to steal Lulu's favorite pail, however, Ladybug Girl must come to the rescue.

Accompanied by beautiful illustrations that stir the imagination, this third installment in the Ladybug Girl series will help inspire young readers to face their fears head on. This is one book that will be read over and over again.

"ELLA KAZOO WILL NOT BRUSH HER HAIR," by Lee Fox and Jennifer Plecas, Walker Books for Young Readers, $15.99 (ages 4-8)

Ella Kazoo will not brush her hair. Her curls, you see, are such a tangle, but she'd rather have fun playing than trying tame her unruly mane. But pretty soon, her hair is out of control, and Ella and her mom must find a solution that makes them both happy.

Infectious rhyming text accompanied by fun illustrations depicting Ella's hair run amok — complete with forks, socks, flowers and all sorts of other things stuck in it — will have young readers giggling from beginning to end.