Books to Help Families Understand and Honor Juneteenth

On Thursday, President Joe Biden signed legislation to honor Juneteenth as a federal holiday, stating "This is a day, in my view, of profound weight and profound power, a day in which we remember the moral stain, terrible toll that slavery took on the country and continues to take."

In support of Juneteenth, Winnie has put together a list of books for families to read together, daycare and preschool providers to add to their bookshelves and some that are just for grownups. These books can help guide a conversation about the history of slavery and the effects that continue to be felt 156 years later. If you are going to purchase any of these books, consider supporting a Black-Owned bookstore.

For Kids 

A Little Book about Activism by Courtney (Courn) Ahn (Ages 0-4) *on pre-order

A little book with a big goal to cultivate empathy, kindness, and caring in our youngest generation. You’re never too little to make a difference!

A Kids Book About Racism by Jelani Memory (Ages 5+)

A children’s book about racism, teaching kids how to spot it when it’s happening and what to do about it. 

Juneteenth for Mazie by Floyd Cooper (Ages 6-9)

A story about a child reflecting on the struggles and triumphs her ancestors faced as her family gets ready to celebrate Juneteenth.

All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom (Ages 5-9) by Angela Johnson 

Told through the eyes of a child, All Different Now tells the story of the first Juneteenth, the day the news of the emancipation proclamation reached Texas.

For Parents 

Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America by Ibram X. Kendi

On Juneteenth by Annette Gordon-Reed

How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi