What Is Juneteenth?

"What Is Juneteenth?" is an accessible and informative chapter book designed for young readers aged 6-9. It delves into the origins of Juneteenth, explaining the historical context of chattel slavery in the United States and the pivotal moment on June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved people in Texas received news of their freedom. The book chronicles the joyous celebrations that followed and traces how this significant event evolved into a widely observed holiday today. Featuring engaging black-and-white illustrations and a photo insert, it provides a clear, age-appropriate introduction to a crucial aspect of American history and cultural heritage.

Discover more about Juneteenth, the important holiday that celebrates the end of chattel slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, a group of enslaved men, women, and children in Texas gathered around a Union solder and listened as he read the most remarkable words they would ever hear. They were no longer enslaved: they were free. The inhumane practice of forced labor with no pay was now illegal in all of the United States. This news was cause for celebration, so the group of people jumped in excitement, danced, and wept tears of joy. They did not know it at the time, but their joyous celebration of freedom would become a holiday--Juneteenth--that is observed each year by more and more Americans. Author Kirsti Jewel shares stories from Juneteenth celebrations, both past and present, and chronicles the history that led to the creation of this joyous day. With 80 black-and-white illustrations and an engaging 16-page photo insert, readers will be excited to read this latest addition to Who HQ!