Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in America when news of emancipation reached the last remaining groups of enslaved people in Texas. It occurred over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by Abraham Lincoln.
In spite of being a joyful and momentous day, it comes with a heavy history that may be difficult to discuss with children. However, it is important for people of all ages to celebrate the progress Juneteenth marked for the nation and acknowledge it is a milestone in an ongoing journey for equality, not the end.
A great way to introduce this topic to young ones is through books geared toward their age group. These five stories tackle this complex issue in a digestible, yet heartfelt way.
Free At Last: A Juneteenth Poem by Sojourner Kincaid Rolle
Ages 4 - 8
Free At Last tells the story of Juneteenth in a lyrical free-verse poem. Kincaid’s eloquent words are a moving ode to Black American history and illustrate the meaning of this day and why we commemorate it.
The Night Before Freedom by Glenda Armand
Ages 4 - 8
This rhyming picture book depicts the anticipation leading up to the day of emancipation in Galveston, Texas. It follows a young girl whose great-grandmother lived to experience the first Juneteenth and has passed the tale through generations. Following the familiar meter of “The Night Before Christmas,” The Night Before Freedom is a touching, personal look into the origins of this holiday and perfect for parents to narrate to their own kids.
The Juneteenth Story: Celebrating the End of Slavery in the United States by Alliah L. Agostini
Ages 6 - 9
The Juneteenth Story chronicles the history and evolution of Juneteenth, beginning with its first celebration in 1865 to its declaration as a federal holiday in 2021. Accompanied by colorful, engaging illustrations, it's a comprehensive, accessible introduction to this important day for children.
Juneteenth Cookbook: Recipes and Activities for Kids and Families to Celebrate by Alliah L. Agostini
Ages 8 - 11
This exciting book is filled with festive, kid-friendly recipes and educational activities to celebrate Juneteenth with your family. Kids can partake in Juneteenth traditions while learning about their significance and historical origins.
On Juneteenth by Annette Gordon-Reed
Ages 14+
Written by a historian and descendent of enslaved people in Texas, On Juneteenth provides a deep examination of not only the history behind Juneteenth, but the change—and lack of—that followed. Mixing memoir with history, Reed explores Black-American roots in Texas without shying away from the darker side of American history — reminding us that the fight for equality is ongoing. Suitable for teens and adults, this book is a must-read for those looking to deepen their understanding of this crucial day.
You can find these at Linden Tree Bookstore, a Bay Area family-run children’s bookstore with a highly curated selection of books reflecting a diverse range of voices.