Illustrated by Markia Jenai 5 stars Fantastically recounts the history behind Juneteenth, from the Middle Passage and enslavement to the Civil War and emancipation. The book shows ways Juneteenth has been celebrated, how Jim Crow laws affected its spread, and how Opal Lee and others worked to make it a national holiday. Nice illustrations. A…
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Illustrated by Ana Latese 5 stars An engaging and fun resource for learning about various aspects of Juneteenth including its history and cultural significance. The book opens with a great introduction to Juneteenth. From there, different concepts are explored for each letter of the alphabet. The text highlights ways Juneteenth is celebrated, important figures in…
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4 stars A fantastic informational read. Provides a great detailed look at the history of Juneteenth for children and adults to read together. I love that this book doesn’t just end with emancipation but also discusses the years following, recognizing the continued inequalities and discrimination. The book covers important events in history including chattel slavery,…
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Illustrated by DeAndra Hodge 3 stars As a young girl enjoys the Juneteenth block party, she wonders what the first Juneteenth celebration was like. She talks to family and friends about their Juneteenth memories as they all share in the joy of the celebration. A nice look at some of the foods and activities associated…
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3 stars A sweet story following a young girl as her father explains the history and importance of Juneteenth. I loved that the book didn’t just stop with the news of the Emancipation Proclamation in Galveston, Texas. It recognizes the continued inequality afterward and those who fought and continue to fight for equality. The story…
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Illustrated by Daniel J. O’Brien 5 stars A heartfelt story, fantastically told. This joyful picture book depicts the celebration of Juneteenth, highlights the symbolism used, and emphasizes Juneteenth’s historical significance. Well-written, heartwarming, and hopeful. Join a family on a sensory experience as they come together to celebrate Juneteenth and remember their history. The story highlights…
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Illustrated by Markia Jenai 4 stars A nonfiction board books presenting the history of Juneteenth for young children. Includes important historical events such as the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, and Juneteenth becoming a national holiday. Nice illustrations. Does include depictions of enslaved Africans in chains being taken on ships and enslaved people working in…
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Illustrated by Tabitha Brown 5 stars A joyful read celebrating Juneteenth. The rhyming text showcases different aspects of Juneteenth celebrations, from parades and picnics to supporting Black businesses. Sweet, colorful illustrations. Includes a note at the end explaining the history of Juneteenth and how it has been celebrated. Such a sweet book. Joyful, colorful, and…
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by Tonya Duncan Ellis Illustrated by Jenin Mohammed 5 stars A beautiful celebration and history of Emancipation Park. Told from the perspective of the park itself, the book follows the park’s founding in 1872, its vital role in the community especially during the time of Jim Crow laws, its years of disrepair, and its eventual…
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