19 Best Juneteenth Books for Kids

This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of the first Juneteenth through the eyes of a young girl. Angela Johnson's rhyming text and E. B. Lewis's captivating illustrations provide a heartfelt and vivid depiction of the historic day when enslaved people in Texas learned of their freedom.

This nonfiction book introduces young readers to the history of Juneteenth in an accessible and engaging way. With colorful illustrations and simple explanations, Arlisha Norwood makes the important story of emancipation and celebration understandable for children, helping them grasp the significance of this pivotal event.

Floyd Cooper’s “Juneteenth for Mazie” follows a young girl as she learns about the significance of Juneteenth from her father. Through rich illustrations and a touching narrative, Mazie understands the importance of her ancestors' struggles and the joy of celebrating freedom, making history personal and impactful for young readers.

This book, written by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson and Drew Nelson as the illustrator, delves into the history and importance of Juneteenth. It combines informative content with engaging illustrations, offering a comprehensive look at the holiday’s origins and why it remains a significant celebration of freedom and African American culture.

Steven Otfinoski’s interactive book allows children to explore Juneteenth through different perspectives and choices. This choose-your-own-adventure format makes learning history exciting and personal, as readers can follow various paths to understand the diverse experiences and significance of the day when freedom finally came to Texas.

Van G. Garrett's "Juneteenth" offers an engaging and poetic introduction to the significance of the Juneteenth holiday. The vibrant illustrations and lyrical text make this book an appealing choice for young readers, conveying the joy and historical importance of the day.

"Juneteenth: Freedom for All" is an accessible Step-Into-Reading book that helps early readers understand the history and importance of Juneteenth. Through simple language and engaging illustrations, it explains the celebration of freedom and the end of slavery in the United States.

"Freedom Rings" by K. Mechelle Ramsey is a beautifully illustrated children's book that explores the history and celebration of Juneteenth. Its engaging storytelling and vibrant visuals make it a captivating resource for young readers to learn about this significant day in American history.

Kirsti Jewel's "What Is Juneteenth?" provides a comprehensive overview of the Juneteenth holiday for young kids. The book combines historical facts with engaging narratives and illustrations, making it an excellent educational resource for children to understand the significance of this important celebration.

"A Flag for Juneteenth" by Kim Taylor tells the story of the creation of the Juneteenth flag and its symbolism. The book's rich illustrations and compelling narrative highlight the importance of the flag in representing freedom and heritage, making it an informative and inspiring read for children.

"Free at Last" is a poetic tribute to Juneteenth, written by Sojourner Kincaid Rolle. This lyrical picture book captures the essence and emotion of the historic day of freedom, complemented by vivid illustrations that bring the celebration and significance of Juneteenth to life for young readers.

Written by "Grandmother of Juneteenth" Opal Lee, this book offers a heartfelt and personal account of the Juneteenth celebration. Peter Jarvis's illustrations beautifully complement the story, making it a captivating and educational resource for children to learn about the history and importance of this national holiday.

"Juneteenth Jamboree" by Carole Boston Weatherford is a vibrant picture book that follows a young girl experiencing her first Juneteenth celebration. The lively illustrations by Yvonne Buchanan and engaging narrative highlight the cultural significance and joy of this historic day, making it an excellent introduction for young readers.

Alliah L. Agostini's "The Juneteenth Story" provides a comprehensive and accessible overview of Juneteenth, from its origins to its present-day celebrations. Illustrated by Sawyer Cloud, this book offers a rich visual and narrative journey that helps children understand the historical importance and enduring legacy of Juneteenth.

Muriel Miller Branch's "Juneteenth: Freedom Day" is a comprehensive look at the history and significance of Juneteenth. Mark Schroder’s illustrations vividly depict the emotions and celebrations of this important day, making it a valuable educational resource for young readers.

"Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom" by Charles A. Taylor provides a detailed exploration of Juneteenth's history and cultural impact. This book is a valuable educational tool, offering insights into the significance of this historic day through engaging text and illustrations.

This book tells the inspiring true story of Opal Lee, an activist who played a key role in making Juneteenth a national holiday. Alice Faye Duncan's narrative, combined with Keturah A. Bobo's vibrant illustrations, makes this an engaging and educational read for children.

Glenda Armand's "The Night Before Freedom" tells the poignant story of the night before Juneteenth. Illustrated by Floyd Cooper, this book captures the anticipation and joy of freedom's arrival, making it an emotional and educational experience for young readers.

"Come Juneteenth" by Ann Rinaldi is a historical novel that delves into the impact of Juneteenth on a Texas family. Through a compelling narrative, it explores themes of freedom, loyalty, and justice, providing young children with a deeper understanding of this significant event in American history.