The Journey of York

Reach for this book when your child starts asking questions about who gets remembered in history and who gets left out. It is an essential resource for helping children process feelings of being overlooked or undervalued despite their hard work and contributions. The story follows York, the only Black member of the Lewis and Clark expedition, who provided vital skills and labor but remained enslaved while others received land and money as rewards. This narrative addresses themes of quiet resilience, the pursuit of dignity, and systemic injustice in a way that is accessible for children aged 7 to 11. It provides a necessary lens through which families can discuss the complexities of American history while celebrating the profound strength of an individual who persevered in the face of unfairness.