Take a swing at these fun stories FOR CHILDREN

April showers turn to May flowers - and magical books keep blooming beyond belief.

Baseball books are back beginning with a home-run hit from sports writer Mike Lupica, who has turned his talents to books for upper-elementary and middle-school students with "Travel Team."

His latest fiction for young readers, "Heat" (Philomel; $16.99), is the story of Cuban-American Michael Arroyo, a Bronx baseball player living out his Little League dream - to capture the title for his team that will take it to the Little League World Series.

That, of course, means first playing in Yankee Stadium.

Lupica keeps the action fast-paced and realistic, as Michael copes with some jealous parent-coaches of rival teams who almost ruin his chance to play as his age and credentials are challenged. Lupica draws on the real-life sports writing skills to weave in a suspenseful and heartwarming tale. Any Little Leaguer will be rooting for Michael and pick up some lessons along the way.

A lighter story of baseball, but also a good read, is "Two Hot Dogs with Everything" by Paul Haven (Random House; $15.95). This follows a ball boy and fan of a hopeless team in Texas. When the team's luck turns, the boy thinks it must be tied to an ancient pack of chewing gum. (The team was founded by a bubblegum company.) Pack this book for a lazy day at the cottage - or just after following a hometown team that needs a bit of luck.