Celebrating Freedom and Understanding

Juneteenth is an important holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. To honor this significant event and promote understanding among children, Dragon Horse Publishing has curated a list of the best children's books that beautifully capture the spirit and reasons to honor and celebrate Juneteenth. These captivating stories and illustrations not only educate young readers about the struggles and triumphs of the past but also inspire them to embrace diversity, equality, and the importance of freedom.

One Crazy Summer

New York Times best-selling author Rita Williams-Garcia tells the story of three sisters who travel from Oakland, California, in 1968 to meet the mother who abandoned them. A perfect addition to your reading list – take along on a family road trip or enjoy at home.

Hello Universe

Author Erin Entrada Kelly tells the story of two boys and two girls from their points of view. This novel celebrates bravery, being different, and finding your inner bayani (hero).

Freewater

Winner of the John Newberry Medal and the Coretta Scott King Author Award, author Amina Luqman-Dawson writes a lyrical, accessible historical middle-grade novel about two enslaved children's escape from a plantation and the many ways they find freedom.

Bud, Not Buddy

An award-winning classic about a boy who decides to hit the road to find his father – from Christopher Paul Curtis – a Newbery and Coretta Scott King Honoree.

Inside Out and Back Again

This coming-of-age debut novel, told in verse, has been celebrated for its touching child's-eye view of family and immigration.