“Juneteenth Jamboree” by Carole Boston Weatherford and Yvonne Buchanan
Let’s start with a gem that beautifully captures the essence of Juneteenth. The first book in traditional publishing exclusively focused on the holiday, “Juneteenth Jamboree,” introduces us to Cassandra, a young girl who moves to Texas and discovers the vibrant celebration of Juneteenth. Through a community gathering filled with music, dance, and storytelling, Cassandra learns about the significance of this historic day.
Why It’s Inspiring: Weatherford’s engaging narrative and lively illustrations make this book a delightful read. It perfectly balances the gravity of the subject with the joy of freedom, providing a masterclass on how to handle sensitive historical topics in a way that’s accessible to children. Note how Weatherford’s evocative prose and vivid imagery create a memorable narrative.
“All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom” by Angela Johnson and E.B. Lewis
Angela Johnson’s “All Different Now” offers a poignant and poetic look at Juneteenth through the eyes of a young girl. The story follows her and her family’s first moments of freedom, capturing the profound impact of the Emancipation Proclamation in a deeply personal and emotional way.
Why It’s Inspiring: Johnson’s lyrical language paired with E.B. Lewis’s stunning watercolor illustrations create an immersive experience that transports readers back in time. For writers, this book is a perfect example of how to use poetic prose to convey complex emotions and historical events, making them relatable for young readers. Pay attention to how Johnson uses sensory details to bring the story to life.
“Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free: The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth“ by Alice Faye Duncan and Keturah A. Bobo
For a more personal and historical perspective, check out “Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free“ by Alice Faye Duncan. This book tells the true story of Opal Lee, often called the Grandmother of Juneteenth, who played a pivotal role in making Juneteenth a national holiday. Through her determination and activism, Opal Lee’s story comes to life, teaching children about the importance of perseverance and the fight for freedom.
Why It’s Inspiring: Duncan’s storytelling, combined with vivid illustrations, brings Opal Lee’s journey to life in an educational and inspiring way. As a writer, experimenting with biographical elements can be a great way to captivate your audience and make historical figures relatable to young readers. Duncan’s ability to blend factual history with compelling narrative makes this book a standout.
Juneteenth is a powerful subject that offers countless opportunities for storytelling. These three books showcase different approaches—through heartwarming narratives, poetic prose, and biographical storytelling—demonstrating the rich potential of Juneteenth stories. As you craft your own tales, remember to weave in the themes of freedom, resilience, and joy that define this significant day.
So, go forth and write the stories that will educate, inspire, and entertain the next generation. Happy writing!
Brentom Jackson is an award winning poet/writer, actor and psychotherapist in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. With poetic voice, theatrical flair, and socio-emotional expertise Brentom tells stories that explore the universal lessons within Black-American history and heritage. His debut picture book Elijah’s Easter Suit with Doubleday/Penguin Random House is available now. Follow him on all social media @brentomjackson. www.brentomjackson.com
