Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom’ effectively conveys the jubilation that occurred on June 19, 1865 when African American people in Texas were the last to be freed from the horrors of U.S. slavery, a full two months after the end of the Civil War and more than two years after Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. Dr. Taylor’s 32-page book, full of colorful illustrations, archival photographs, and historical documents, makes the information about Juneteenth accessible for readers aged ten and up.
“Juneteenth (On My Own Holidays” by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson
June 19th, 1865, began as another hot day in Texas. African American slaves worked in fields, in barns, and in the homes of the white people who owned them. Then a message arrived. Freedom! Slavery had ended! The Civil War had actually ended in April. It took two months for word to reach Texas. Still the joy of that amazing day has never been forgotten. Every year, people all over the United States come together on June 19th to celebrate the end of slavery. Join in the celebration of Juneteenth, a day to remember and honor freedom for all people.
“Juneteenth (Holidays)” by Julie Murray
Introduces the origins and significance of Juneteenth–June 19, the day when African Americans recall their heritage and their forebears’ emancipation from slavery–and describes how the holiday is celebrated.
“Freedom’s Gifts” by Valerie Wesley
With the help of their elderly Aunt Marshall, June and her cousin Lillie celebrate Juneteenth, the day Texas slaves found out they had been freed, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
“Freedom Day: A Juneteenth Activity Book for Kids” by Ama Yawson
It is time to celebrate! Get out your Pan African flag! Wear your beautiful clothes! But most of all, call all of your family and friends to gather to eat, sing, dance, and rejoice because it is Freedom Day! Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, or Juneteenth is the day that we celebrate the emancipation of enslaved Africans in the United States of America. It has been celebrated on June 19th of every calendar year since June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas and announced that slavery had been abolished. In reality, slavery had been abolished two years when President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. However, it took time for soldiers to travel and share the news. When the newly freed people finally heard that they were free, they gathered to sing, dance, pray, and break bread together. For this reason, all Americans can commemorate June 19th by celebrating the freedoms won and by also engaging in activism to ensure that all of our freedoms are protected and expanded.This activity book contains the history of Juneteenth as well as vocabulary words, essay questions, coloring pages, and other fun exercises that will allow users to deeply reflect on this important American holiday.
“Come Juneteenth” by Ann Rinaldi
Sis Goose is a beloved member of Luli’s family, despite the fact that she was born a slave. But the family is harboring a terrible secret. And when Union soldiers arrive on their Texas plantation to announce that slaves have been declared free for nearly two years, Sis Goose is horrified to learn that the people she called family have lied to her for so long. She runs away–but her newly found freedom has tragic consequences.
“Black Heroes” by Arlisha Norwood
Black Heroes: A Black History Book for Kids features:
1. Amazing biographies – Discover the stories behind famous icons as well as lesser-known individuals throughout history, including civil rights heroes (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.), stars of the arts (Miles Davis), and scientists and pioneers (aviator Bessie Coleman).
2. Explore more – Coupled with each biography in this black history book for kids is a short sidebar that gives you more ways to learn beyond the book.
3. Engaging portraits – Enjoy the full-color illustrations of these historical heroes while you read along.
“All Different Now” by Angela Johnson
Through the eyes of one little girl, All Different Now tells the story of the first Juneteenth, the day freedom finally came to the last of the slaves in the South. Since then, the observance of June 19 as African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond. This stunning picture book includes notes from the author and illustrator, a timeline of important dates, and a glossary of relevant terms.
“You, Me and Empathy” by Jayneen Sanders
One of the most important social skills a child can learn is empathy. Being able to understand how another person is feeling and recognizing their needs helps people to connect to one another across race, culture and the diversity that is ever-present and so important to our world. This charming story uses verse, beautiful illustrations and a little person called Quinn to model the meaning of empathy. Throughout the story, Quinn shows an abundance of understanding, compassion and kindness towards others. Showing empathy towards others is a learnt trait, and one to nurture and cherish with the children in our care.
“The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade” by Justin Roberts
Hardly anyone noticed young Sally McCabe.
She was the smallest girl in the smallest grade.
But Sally notices everything—from the twenty-seven keys on the janitor’s ring to the bullying happening on the playground. One day, Sally has had enough and decides to make herself heard. And when she takes a chance and stands up to the bullies, she finds that one small girl can make a big difference.