As Juneteenth quickly approaches, I want to share a list of beautifully written and powerful children’s books that are perfect for introducing, teaching, and celebrating this important holiday with kids. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, I encourage you to choose at least one or two of these stories to spark meaningful conversations about the history of Juneteenth and what it truly means to be free.

Here are a few key terms you may want to highlight as you read:

• Freedom – The central theme of Juneteenth; discuss what it means, why it matters, and how it feels.
• Justice – A great word to connect with fairness, equality, and why freedom alone isn’t always enough.
• Celebrate – Emphasize the joy and tradition of honoring progress and history.
• History – Help children understand the importance of knowing and remembering the past.
• Hope – A beautiful word to tie into the emotions in these stories—hope for a better future, even in hard times.

Happy Reading!

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Children’s Picture Books to Honor Juneteenth

Juneteenth for Mazie – written and illustrated by Floyd Cooper

This is a must-read when introducing Juneteenth to young children! Mazie is a relatable character, and the way her dad shares their family’s story makes history feel real and close. And the illustrations are gorgeous! This story is a powerful reminder that freedom is worth celebrating.

(Get this book! https://amzn.to/4jZwTcl)

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The Night Before Freedom: A Juneteenth Story – written by Glenda Armand and illustrated by Corey Barksdale

This beautiful story imagines the night before freedom came, and it’s full of emotion, rhythm, and stunning art that leaps off the page. It’s poetic and soulful, perfect for read-alouds that spark deep conversations. 

(Get this book! https://amzn.to/4kH0pEP)

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Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free – written by Alice Faye Duncan and illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo

This book celebrates Opal Lee, “Grandmother of Juneteenth”, a former educator, and a relentless advocate for Juneteenth. It shows how activism, storytelling, and tradition can intersect, and tells Opal’s story in a way that’s kid-friendly and inspiring. This book is great to show how one person can spark big change. 

(Get this book! https://amzn.to/3SJzvQm)

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All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom – written by Angela Johnson illustrated by E. B. Lewis

This is another beautiful story told through the perspective of a child on the day free came. The language is so lyrical and tender. It’s a quiet, yet powerful, read that lingers with you. This story is perfect for helping kids feel the heart of the moment. 

(Get this book! ​​https://amzn.to/3HxEDEP)

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A Flag for Juneteenth – written by Kim Taylor

The story and art in this book makes it so unique! It’s about a young girl named Huldah and the day she learns she’s free, which also happens to be her birthday! The quilt-style illustrations are stunning, and I love how it blends history, creativity, and culture! This is definitely a memorable book. 

(Get this book! https://amzn.to/3Fwug3w)

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The Juneteenth Story: Celebrating the End of Slavery in the United States (Holiday Celebration) ​​- written by Alliah L. Agostini and illustrated by Sawyer Cloud

This book breaks down the history of Juneteenth in a clear, engaging, and easy-to-follow way! It covers the facts, but also keeps the story lively with vibrant illustrations and a conversational tone. If you want a kid-friendly, nonfiction option for your Juneteenth collection, this is it!

(Get this book! https://amzn.to/4mZYo8j)

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The Juneteenth Alphabet – written by Andrea Underwood Petifer and illustrated by Ana Latese

This A-to-Z book is a fun way to build early knowledge about Juneteenth! The artwork is colorful, this book introduces key terms and people in a fun and catchy way for children, and it’s an overall great way to teach children history. Great for all students, especially younger readers!

(Get this book! https://amzn.to/3HLm0gt)

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After reading these amazing books, take a moment to ask children how the story made them feel, what they learned, and what freedom means to them. A simple drawing or a quick written reflection can turn these read-alouds into powerful and lasting learning moments.

If you have a favorite Juneteenth book that’s not on this list, I’d love to hear about it! Drop a comment below with your recommendations. Let’s grow this list together for our kids and classrooms!

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