Staff Picks
Juneteenth for Kids
Collection
Celebrate Juneteenth with these educational and impactful titles.
The Juneteenth Cookbook
Recipes and Activities for Kids and Families to Celebrate
Published in 2024
"The Juneteenth Cookbook introduces the history of Juneteenth to kids through vibrant recipes, activities, and games drawn from Black American cultural traditions"-- Provided by publisher.
The Juneteenth Story
Celebrating the End of Slavery in the United States
Published in 2022
"With colorful illustrations and a timeline, this introductory history of Juneteenth for kids details the evolution of the holiday commemorating the date the enslaved people of Texas first learned of their freedom​. On June 19, 1865--more than two years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation--the enslaved people of Texas first learned of their freedom. That day became a day of remembrance and celebration that changed and grew from year to year. Learn about the events that led to emancipation and why it took so long for the enslaved people in Texas to hear the news. The first Juneteenth began as "Jubilee Day," where families celebrated and learned of their new rights as citizens. As Black Texans moved to other parts of the country, they brought their traditions along with them, and Juneteenth continued to grow and develop. Today, Juneteenth's powerful spirit has endured through the centuries to become an official holiday in the United States in 2021. The Juneteenth Story provides an accessible introduction for kids to learn about this important American holiday."
An American Story
Published in 2023
"A picture book in verse that threads together past and present to explore the legacy of slavery during a classroom lesson"-- Provided by publisher.
The Undefeated
Published in 2019
"The Newbery Award-winning author of The Crossover pens an ode to black American triumph and tribulation, with art from a two-time Caldecott Honoree"-- Provided by publisher.
The Night Before Freedom
A Juneteenth Story
Published in 2023
Eight-year-old David and his family gather at Grandma's house in Galveston, Texas, for a cherished family tradition--Grandma's annual retelling of the story of Juneteenth, the holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.
How to Build a Museum
Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture
Published in 2016
The first national museum whose mission is to illuminate for all people, the rich, diverse, complicated, and important experiences and contributions of African Americans in America is opening. And the history of NMAAHC--the last museum to be built on the National Mall--is the history of America. The campaign to set up a museum honoring black citizens is nearly 100 years old; building the museum itelf and assembling its incredibly far-reaching collections is a modern story that involves all kinds of people, from educators and activists, to politicians, architects, curators, construction workers, and ordinary Americans who donated cherished belongings to be included in NMAAHC's thematically-organized exhibits. Award-winning author Tonya Bolden has written a fascinating chronicle of how all of these ideas, ambitions, and actual objects came together in one incredible museum. Includes behind-the-scenes photos of literally "how to build a museum" that holds everything from an entire segregated railroad car to a tiny West African amulet worn to ward off slave traders.
Twice Enslaved
Liberty and Justice for Henrietta Wood
Published in 2025
Henrietta Wood was born enslaved. As a teen she was ripped from her family and sold. Years later, a miracle happened, and she was given freedom papers. But Henrietta's freedom was short-lived. She was tricked back into enslavement and sent to a Mississippi cotton plantation. On June 19, 1865--Juneteenth--she was emancipated. Finally free for good, Henrietta Wood sued the man who had kidnapped her back into enslavement--and she won! Henrietta was one of the few people in United States history to ever receive a reparation payment for slavery. Twice Enslaved is a true story of cruelty, resilience, and ultimately triumph, told lyrically for middle-grade readers by Selene Castrovilla and illustrated in full color by artist Erin Robinson.
We Are Here
Published in 2023
"Lyrical, affirmational, and bursting with love, We Are Here is a poignant story about Black and brown heritage and community. Full of assurance, tenderness, and triumph, this much-anticipated follow-up to the New York Times bestselling picture book All Because You Matter offers an equally inspirational and arresting ode to all of the Black women and men throughout history who have made momentous contributions from the beginning of time"-- Provided by publisher
Juneteenth
Published in 2024
In the United States, Black people were enslaved for hundreds of years. In 1863, during the American Civil War, many enslaved people were freed. On June 19, 1865, enslaved people in Texas heard the news that they were free for the first time. On Juneteenth, people celebrate this day with parades, barbecues, protests, and other activities. This title explores the holiday's past, present, and future. Easy-to-read text, vivid images, and helpful back matter give readers a clear look at this subject. Features include a table of contents, infographics, a glossary, additional resources, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Core Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.
Juneteenth for Mazie
Published in 2015
Little Mazie wants the freedom to stay up late, but her father explains what freedom really means in the story of Juneteenth, and how her ancestors celebrated their true freedom.
Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free
The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth
Published in 2021
"The true story of Black activist Opal Lee and her vision of Juneteenth as a holiday for everyone will inspire children to be brave and make a difference. Growing up in Texas, Opal knew the history of Juneteenth, but she soon discovered that most Americans had never heard of the holiday that represents the nation's creed of "freedom for all.""-- Provided by publisher.
The Gathering Table
Published in 2025
A Southern family gathers in their backyard around a special table to celebrate important moments throughout the year, from anniversaries to new births, as they share food, traditions, and love.
A Song for Juneteenth
Published in 2026
A celebration of Juneteenth showcasing the resilience of Black families and the power of community.
They Built Me for Freedom
The Story of Juneteenth and Houston's Emancipation Park
Published in 2024
Bringing to life the 150-year story of Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas, and the origins of Juneteenth, this moving picture book, with lyrical text and vibrant artwork, is an ode to the struggle, triumph, courage and joy of Black America.
Juneteenth
Published in 2023
An African American family attends a modern-day Juneteenth parade in Galveston, Texas (the birthplace of the holiday). Text includes lines from "Lift Every Voice and Sing."
Build a House
Published in 2022
"Grammy Award winner Rhiannon Giddens celebrates Black history and culture in her unflinching, uplifting, and gorgeously illustrated picture book debut. As an acclaimed musician, singer, songwriter, and cofounder of the traditional African American string band the Carolina Chocolate Drops, Rhiannon Giddens has long used her art to mine America's musical past and manifest its future, passionately recovering lost voices and reconstructing a nation's musical heritage. Written as a song to commemorate the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth-which was originally performed with famed cellist Yo-Yo Ma-and paired here with bold illustrations by painter Monica Mikai, Build a House tells the moving story of a people who would not be moved and the music that sustained them. Steeped in sorrow and joy, resilience and resolve, turmoil and transcendence, this dramatic debut offers a proud view of history and a vital message for readers of all ages: honor your heritage, express your truth, and let your voice soar, even-or perhaps especially-when your heart is heaviest."-- Provided by publisher.
The People Could Fly
The Picture Book
Published in 2004
In this retelling of a folktale, a group of slaves, unable to bear their sadness and starvation any longer, calls upon the African magic that allows them to fly away.
Born on the Water
Published in 2021
Stymied by her unfinished family tree assignment for school, a young girl seeks Grandma's counsel and learns about her ancestors, the consequences of slavery, and the history of Black resistance in the United States.
A Kids Book About
Juneteenth
Published in 2024
"Our history echoes with events which, over time, have become hidden, yet are important to all of us. Juneteenth is a celebration which recognizes the end of the enslavement of Black people in America. This book opens a door to understanding our history and celebrating our future--together"-- Provided by publisher.
My People
Published in 2009
Hughes's spare yet eloquent tribute to his people has been cherished for generations. Now, acclaimed photographer Smith interprets this beloved poem in vivid sepia photographs that capture the glory, the beauty, and the soul of being a black American today.
All Different Now
Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom
Published in 2014
In 1865, members of a family start their day as slaves, working in a Texas cotton field, and end it celebrating their freedom on what came to be known as Juneteenth.
Sing a Song
How "Lift Every Voice and Sing" Inspired Generations
Published in 2019
"Just in time for the 120th anniversary of the song "Lift Every Voice and Sing"--This stirring book celebrates the Black National Anthem and how it inspired five generations of a family ... In Jacksonville, Florida, two brothers, one of them the principal of a segregated, all-black school, wrote the song "Lift Every Voice and Sing" so his students could sing it for a tribute to Abraham Lincoln's birthday in 1900. From that moment on, the song has provided inspiration and solace for generations of Black families. Mothers and fathers passed it on to their children who sang it to their children and grandchildren. It has been sung during major moments of the Civil Rights Movement and at family gatherings and college graduations. Inspired by this song's enduring significance, Kelly Starling Lyons and Keith Mallett tell a story about the generations of families who gained hope and strength from the song's inspiring words."--Provided by publisher
Tell Me About Juneteenth
Published in 2025
"On June 19th, 1865, the last enslaved African Americans were finally freed in Galveston, Texas. Every year, our community comes together to honor this special day. We play hopscotch, eat spice cake, and listen to music, but what about the first Juneteenth? As family and friends recount their memories and stories of Juneteenths past, ayoung girl learns about the holiday's longstanding history and traditions"-- Provided by publisher.
Heart and Soul
The Story of America and African Americans
Published in 2011
An simple introduction to African-American history, from Revolutionary-era slavery up to the election of President Obama.
The Juneteenth Alphabet
Published in 2025
"Celebrate Juneteenth with this heartfelt introduction for kids ages 3 to 6. A is for ancestors, and B is for Black. There is a complex history behind Juneteenth-but in The Juneteenth Alphabet, kids (and adults) can find celebratory moments of joy and inspiration as they learn about the origins and traditions of this day of freedom (for all!). Includes a glossary of important words and a list of websites for further reading"-- Provided by publisher.
Cooking Up Change
Published in 2025
Cooking Up Change is both a celebration of Black history and an invitation to experience it through the lens of food. With biographies of figures who shaped important events and mouthwatering recipes that carry their essence, this book will inspire future leaders with real stories of trailblazers who helped to change the world. One event per month is highlighted. After sharing the story of a person related to each event--such as Dorothy Height for International Women's Day in March--Platt pairs each moment with a delectable recipe that carries the essence of the occasion. All the stories and recipes featured are inspired by his grandmother; the person who guided him in unearthing his Black heritage and moved him to fall in love with cooking. Each page features engaging color illustrations from Alleanna Harris. Recipes include: Macaroni and cheese for Martin Luther King Jr. Day Key lime pie for Black History Month Deep dish peach cobbler for International Women's Day Grilled fish for Jackie Robinson Day Molasses cookies for Memorial Day Red hibiscus drink for Juneteenth Apple pie for Independence Day Potato salad for the Great Migration Sweet potato pie for Labor Day Pork chops for Black Poetry Day Green gumbo for Election Day Coconut cake for Kwanzaa.
All Good in the Hood
Published in 2023
"A bounce-to-the-beat story, set against the backdrop of a Juneteenth celebration, about a young boy who's afraid of the sounds in the city but is comforted by his older brother, who tells him not to worry: "It's all good in the hood.""-- Provided by publisher.
Free at Last
A Juneteenth Poem
Published in 2022
"Deeply emotional, evocative free verse by poet and activist Sojourner Kincaid Rolle traces the solemnity and celebration of Juneteenth from its 1865 origins in Galveston, Texas to contemporary observances all over the United States. This is an ode to the strength of Black Americans and a call to remember and honor a holiday whose importance reverberates far beyond the borders of Texas"-- Provided by publisher
The History of Juneteenth
Published in 2016
"Juneteenth is usually celebrated on June 19. It honors the day in 1865 when Union troops swept into Galveston, Texas, and told the elated slaves there that they were free. This accessible volume delves into the American Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the events that led to this special holiday for African Americans and everyone who celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. Carefully chosen photographs reflect this special commemoration, both in the past and today."-- Amazon.com.
A Flag for Juneteenth
Published in 2023
"A Flag for Juneteenth depicts a close-knit community of enslaved African Americans on a plantation in Texas, the day before the announcement is to be made that all enslaved people are free. Young Huldah, who is preparing to celebrate her tenth birthday, can't possibly anticipate how much her life will change that Juneteenth morning. The story follows Huldah and her community as they process the news of their freedom and celebrate together by creating a community freedom flag. Debut author and artist Kim Taylor sets this story apart by applying her skills as an expert quilter. Each of the illustrations has been lovingly hand sewn and quilted, giving the book a homespun, tactile quality that is altogether unique."-- Amazon.
The Blacker the Berry
Poems
Published in 2008
A collection of poems, including "Golden Goodness," "Cranberry Red," and "Biscuit Brown," celebrating individuality and Afro-American identity.
Juneteenth is
Published in 2024
"This book is an ode to the history of the Black community in the United States, a tribute to Black joy, and a portrait of familial love"-- Provided by publisher.
My Name is Truth
The Life of Sojourner Truth
Published in 2015
A vibrantly illustrated story of how former slave Isabella Baumfree transformed herself into the preacher and orator Sojourner Truth, one of the most inspiring and important figures of the abolitionist and women's rights movements.-- (Source of description not identified).
Freedom's Gifts
A Juneteenth Story
Published in 1997
When a girl from New York visits her cousin in Texas, she learns the origin of Juneteenth, a holiday marking the day Texan slaves realized they were free.
The Year We Learned to Fly
Published in 2022
"By heeding their wise grandmother's advice, a brother and sister discover the ability to lift themselves up and imagine a better world"-- Provided by publisher.
So Many Years
A Juneteenth Story
Published in 2025
A poetic picture book explains the history behind Juneteenth celebrations, simultaneously acknowledging the history of slavery in the U.S. as well as the astonishing Black resilience that has led to an enduring legacy of Black joy.
The People Remember
Published in 2021
This book tells the journey of African descendants in America by connecting their history to the seven principles of Kwanzaa. It begins in Africa, where people were taken from their homes and families. They spoke different languages and had different customs. Yet they were bound and chained together and forced onto ships sailing into an unknown future. Ultimately, all these people had to learn one common language and create a culture that combined their memories of home with new traditions that enabled them to thrive in this new land. This is a story young readers can visit over and over again to deepen their understanding of African American history in relation to their own lives and to social justice movements. By turns powerful and revealing, this is a lyrical narrative that tells the story of survival, as well as the many moments of joy, celebration, and innovation of Black people in America--Description from Amazon.