White Lilacs

Reach for this book when your child starts noticing that the world is not always fair and asks how people find the courage to face systemic injustice. Based on the true history of a Black community in 1920s Texas, this story follows Rose Lee Jefferson as her thriving neighborhood, Freedomtown, is targeted for destruction to make room for a whites only park. It is a poignant exploration of history, resilience, and the emotional weight of being forced to leave one's home. While the subject matter is serious, the focus on family bonds and communal strength makes it an empowering read for middle schoolers. It provides a vital window into the past that helps children understand the importance of preserving history and standing up for what is right, even when the odds are stacked against you.