June 19th marks Juneteenth, a national celebration in the United States that dates back to 1865 when Galveston, Texas became the final American city to learn about the emancipation of slaves. Today, this occasion is commemorated with parades, speeches and music celebrating Black achievement. Make sure your students are aware of this important cultural holiday and historic event by adding one or more of these titles to your classroom library!

1. Juneteenth
by Lynn Peppas

Interest level: K-3

This nonfiction title introduces the history of Juneteenth and describes how it is observed throughout the United States.

2. Juneteenth
by Rachel Grack

Interest level: K-3

This engaging book teaches the fascinating origins and traditions of Juneteenth, honoring the freedom of African Americans.

3. Juneteenth for Mazie
by Floyd Cooper

Interest level: K-3

Mazie is ready to celebrate liberty. She is ready to celebrate freedom. She is ready to celebrate a great day in American history – the day her ancestors were no longer slaves. Mazie remembers the struggles and the triumph, as she gets ready to celebrate Juneteenth.

4. The History of Juneteenth
by Maximilian Smith

Interest level: 1-3

This accessible volume delves into the American Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation and the events that led to this special holiday for African Americans and everyone who celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. Carefully chosen photographs reflect this special commemoration, both in the past and today.

5. The Story Behind Juneteenth
by Jack Reader

Interest level: 1-3

In this book, readers are given an in-depth look at the history of Juneteenth, including the events leading up to its creation. Readers will love learning about how this important moment in U.S. history is celebrated each year.

6. All Different Now: Juneteenth, The First Day of Freedom
by Angela Johnson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis

Interest level: 2-5

Experience the joy of Juneteenth in this celebration of freedom from the award-winning team of Angela Johnson and E.B. Lewis. Through the eyes of one little girl, All Different Now tells the story of the first Juneteenth, the day freedom finally came to the last of the slaves in the South. This stunning picture book includes notes from the author and illustrator, a timeline of important dates, and a glossary of relevant terms. Told in Angela Johnson’s signature melodic style and brought to life by E.B. Lewis’s striking paintings, All Different Now is a joyous portrait of the dawn breaking on the darkest time in our nation’s history.

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What books and activities have you used to teach your students about Juneteenth? Tell us about it in the comments below!