Books about Slavery
Award winning
If You Traveled on the Underground Railroad
Ellen Levine, Larry Johnson, 1988
64 pages
Why to read
Engages children with historical, adventurous storytelling.
Empowers with tales of resilience and courage.
Illustrates the importance of freedom and bravery.
Supports history education with engaging narratives.
If You Traveled on the Underground Railroad
Ellen Levine, Larry Johnson, 1988
Award winning
Harriet Tubman
Dana Meachen Rau, 2000
32 pages
Why to read
Illustrates courage and resilience through Harriet Tubman’s journey.
Empowers children with stories of bravery and leadership.
Encourages historical knowledge and awareness in young readers.
Supports discussions about freedom and human rights.
Harriet Tubman
Dana Meachen Rau, 2000
Award winning
Freedom Over Me: Eleven Slaves, Their Lives and Dreams Brought to Life by Ashley Bryan
Ashley Bryan, 2016
56 pages
Why to read
Richly imaginative, deeply moving poetic narratives.
Vivid illustrations enhance emotional connection.
Encourages empathy and historical awareness.
Supports discussions on freedom and human rights.
Freedom Over Me: Eleven Slaves, Their Lives and Dreams Brought to Life by Ashley Bryan
Ashley Bryan, 2016
Award winning
My Name Is Truth: The Life of Sojourner Truth
Ann Turner, James Ransome, 2015
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires with Sojourner Truth's powerful life story.
Introduces historical concepts and social justice issues.
Encourages resilience and determination in young readers.
Supports discussions on equality and human rights.
My Name Is Truth: The Life of Sojourner Truth
Ann Turner, James Ransome, 2015
Award winning
The History of Juneteenth: A History Book for New Readers
Arlisha Norwood, Arlisha Norwood PhD, 2022
66 pages
Why to read
Educational insight on a significant historical event.
Fosters awareness and appreciation of cultural diversity.
Encourages discussions on freedom and equality.
Accessible narrative for young readers.
The History of Juneteenth: A History Book for New Readers
Arlisha Norwood, Arlisha Norwood PhD, 2022
Award winning
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, Listening Library, 2021
48 pages
Why to read
Enhances understanding of African American history.
Strengthens empathy through powerful storytelling.
Encourages critical thinking and discussion.
Beautiful, evocative illustrations complement the narrative.
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, Listening Library, 2021
Award winning
Children of the Emancipation (Picture the American Past)
Wilma King, 2000
48 pages
Why to read
Educational insights into post-emancipation American history.
Fosters understanding of historical changes and their impact.
Encourages empathy and appreciation of diverse experiences.
Ideal for enhancing children's historical knowledge.
Children of the Emancipation (Picture the American Past)
Wilma King, 2000
Award winning
Freedom in Congo Square
Carole Boston Weatherford, R. Gregory Christie, 2016
34 pages
Why to read
Celebrates resilience through rhythmic, lyrical storytelling.
Highlights historical significance of Congo Square.
Encourages cultural awareness and appreciation.
Supports development of empathy and social understanding.
