Freedom Through Storytime: Juneteenth Reads for Little Minds
At Open Minds, we believe in the power of stories to plant seeds of understanding, empathy, and pride—even in our youngest learners. With Juneteenth around the corner, it’s the perfect time to celebrate freedom, history, and culture with books that open little hearts and minds to big ideas.
Juneteenth, observed on June 19th, commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. While this holiday honors a pivotal moment in U.S. history, it's also a celebration of Black joy, resilience, and progress.
And what better way to introduce this day than through storytime? From bold board books to heartwarming picture books, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite Juneteenth reads for little minds that are perfect for Pre-K through 2nd grade.
1.) Let’s Celebrate Juneteenth
Author: Tonya Abari
Best for Ages: Baby – 5 years, Grades Pre-K to K
This joyful board book uses bright colors and simple words to introduce little learners to the meaning of Juneteenth and how families celebrate today.
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2.) Jayylen’s Juneteenth Surprise
Author: Lavaille Lavette
Best for Ages: 2–5 years
Follow Jayylen as he prepares for his first Juneteenth celebration—with help from Paw Paw, zydeco music, and a big surprise! A sweet story full of family, culture, and celebration.
3.) Tell Me About Juneteenth
Author: Kortney Nash
Best for Ages: 4–8 years
This vibrant picture book shows how food, music, and stories bring a community together to remember history and celebrate freedom.
4.) Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free
Author: Alice Faye Duncan
Best for Ages: 4–8 years
Meet the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” Opal Lee. Her inspiring true story shows how one person’s voice can spark national change. A must-read for dreamers of all ages.
5.) Freedom Rings
Author: Sharday Moser
Best for Ages: Baby–7 years
Celebrate Juneteenth with music, storytelling, and family time. A gentle introduction to an important holiday, filled with heart and history.
6.) The Story of Juneteenth
Author: Dorena Williamson
Best for Ages: 2-5 years
Simple, kid-friendly language explains the events of June 19, 1865, and connects them to the way we celebrate today.
7.) Juneteenth: A Children's Story
Author: Opal Lee
Best for Ages: 5-8 years
This bright, toddler-friendly board book introduces little learners to the history and meaning behind America’s newest national holiday. With simple language and colorful illustrations, it shares the events of June 19, 1865—and how we celebrate freedom
💬 Why It Matters:
Sharing stories like these helps kids:
Learn that freedom and fairness matter
Understand our country’s diverse history
Celebrate identity, community, and progress
Build empathy and a love for justice
At Open Minds, we believe in raising curious, compassionate, and culturally aware children. That starts with early conversations—and great books are a powerful way to begin.