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Commemorating Juneteenth: A Poetic Journey
In this poignant picture book, we delve into the significance of Juneteenth with the utmost reverence and care that this momentous occasion deserves. Through eloquent rhymes and captivating illustrations, young readers will gain insight into the historical significance of this pivotal day.
On the enchanting eve before Emancipation, throughout the Southern land, whispers of freedom, a dream close at hand. "It's coming! It's coming!" voices did convey Emancipation, the dawning of a brighter day.
Eight-year-old David and his family converge at Grandma's residence in Galveston, Texas, partaking in a treasured family custom: Grandma's annual retelling of the Juneteenth narrative. This holiday marks the culmination of slavery in the United States.
The Emancipation Proclamation, signed by President Abraham Lincoln, decreed freedom for all enslaved individuals in rebellious states from January 1, 1863. Nonetheless, it was not until June 19, 1865, that the people of Texas learned of their Emancipation, two and a half years later. This delayed announcement, stemming from various historical and logistical factors, is a poignant reminder of the complex journey toward freedom.
Grandma, a repository of generational wisdom, recounts a tale of eager anticipation, Emancipation, and unbridled jubilation. Her narrative mirrors the story her grandmother, Mom Bess passed down to her. At the tender age of six, Bess experienced the very first Juneteenth. Before that day, liberty was a distant concept, a far-off beacon of hope. Yet, when freedom finally arrived, did it fulfill the dreams of a young girl who had longed for its embrace?
This narrative is beautifully written in the rhythmic style reminiscent of Clement C. Moore's "The Night Before Christmas." The melodic flow of the text is poised to enchant both parents and children, providing a delightful opportunity for shared reading and reflection. By juxtaposing the joy of Juneteenth with the bittersweet history that precedes it, this book offers a window into the enduring spirit of hope and resilience that defines the African-American experience.
As the pages unfold, the mesmerizing illustrations breathe life into the historical setting, capturing the emotions and grandeur of the moment. Readers, young and old, will be transported to that fateful Juneteenth day, feeling the anticipation in the air and the uncontainable exuberance of newfound freedom. This picture book serves as a timeless tribute to the heroes and heroines who have shaped this journey and an invitation to embrace the lessons of the past as we work towards a more just and inclusive future.
"Commemorating Juneteenth: A Poetic Journey" celebrates the significance of this emancipatory holiday and reinforces the values of family, freedom, and storytelling. Through its pages, children and their caregivers can embark on a shared voyage through history, coming to understand the importance of Juneteenth in the ongoing quest for equality and justice.
In a world filled with celebrations, "Commemorating Juneteenth: A Poetic Journey" stands as an illuminating and heartfelt tribute to a day that symbolizes resilience, unity, and the enduring spirit of a community on the path to a brighter tomorrow. This book is a timeless addition to any library, ensuring that the story of Juneteenth lives on to inspire future generations.
Juneteenth, the commemoration of the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, has taken on a new significance as a federal holiday in the United States. This pivotal moment in American history holds immense importance for all citizens, highlighting the struggles, triumphs, and ongoing journey toward equality. In this article, we celebrate Juneteenth and explore why it resonates with people across the nation. We also delve into the book "The Night Before Freedom" by Glenda Armand and Corey Barksdale, which beautifully captures the essence of this historic event.
Juneteenth holds great significance for all Americans, regardless of race or background. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of the African American community, as well as the enduring struggle for civil rights and freedom. By acknowledging Juneteenth, we honor the contributions and sacrifices made by African Americans throughout history, fostering a collective understanding of our shared past and a commitment to a more inclusive future.
In recent years, the observance of Juneteenth has gained widespread recognition and support. Its elevation to a federal holiday underscores the importance of acknowledging and confronting the injustices of the past. Juneteenth provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress achieved in the pursuit of racial equality while recognizing the work that remains to be done. It serves as a call to action to dismantle systemic racism and promote a society that embraces diversity, inclusion, and justice for all.
As we celebrate Juneteenth, it is essential to engage in meaningful dialogue, self-reflection, and action. We must commit to dismantling systemic barriers, promoting equality, and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. By embracing the spirit of Juneteenth, we can foster empathy, compassion, and unity, striving to create a society where everyone can experience the fullness of freedom.
Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder of the struggles endured by African Americans in the pursuit of freedom and equality. As we commemorate this historic day, let us honor the past, acknowledge the present, and work toward a future where justice and inclusivity are the foundation of our society. By understanding the significance of Juneteenth and actively engaging in its celebration, we can create a more equitable and harmonious nation for all Americans.
NIGHT BEFORE FREEDOM BOOK | Random House Publishing
ABOUT THE NIGHT BEFORE FREEDOM - Penguin Random House
This moving picture book tells the story of Juneteenth with all the
care and reverence such a holiday deserves. The rhyming text and
stunning illustrations will teach children about this historic day
in history.
‘Twas the night before freedom, and all through the South,
long-whispered rumors had, spread word of mouth.
“It’s coming! It’s coming!” I heard people say.
“Emancipation is coming our way.”
Eight-year-old David and his family gather at Grandma’s house in
Galveston, Texas, for a cherished family tradition: Grandma’s annual
retelling of the story of Juneteenth, the holiday that commemorates
the end of slavery in the United States.
The signing of the Emancipation Proclamation by President Abraham
Lincoln meant that all enslaved persons within the rebellious states
would be free as of January 1, 1863. However, people in Texas did
not receive the news of their emancipation until two and a half
years later—on June 19, 1865.
Grandma tells the story of anticipation, emancipation, and
jubilation just as it was told to her many years before by her own
grandmother, Mom Bess. As a six-year-old, Bess had experienced the
very first Juneteenth. Before that day, she could only imagine what
liberty would look like. But once freedom arrived, would it live up
to a little girl’s dreams?
The story is written in the same meter as Clement C. Moore’s The
Night Before Christmas, making it a perfect book for parents and
kids to read together.
PRAISE
“A jubilant combination of verse and illustration that captures this
momentous historical event.” —Kirkus Reviews
“Armand’s use of rhyme and rhythm throughout the book is reminiscent
of nursery rhymes….Colors are bright, warm, lively, flowy, soft, and
blended.” —School Library Journal
“A sense of joy and movement pervades every spread.” —Booklist
“Historically insightful.” —Publishers Weekly
“With beautiful pictures and text written in the same meter as the
classic The Night Before Christmas, families will love reading and
learning about this important day in Black history together.” —The
Root
Product details
Publisher : Crown Books for Young Readers (May 2, 2023)
Language : English
Hardcover : 40 pages
ISBN-10 : 0593567463
ISBN-13 : 978-0593567463
Reading age : 4 - 8 years
Lexile measure : AD690L
Grade level : Preschool - 3
Item Weight : 1 pounds
Dimensions : 9.38 x 0.41 x 11.25 inches
Best Sellers Rank: #14,248 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
#36 in Children's Non-religious Holiday Books
#58 in Children's Black & African American Story Books
#68 in Children's American Historical Fiction (Books)
Customer Reviews: 5.0 5.0 out of 5 stars
Monique
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautifully told story
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on May 10, 2023
Verified Purchase
The author, Glenda Armand, has captured the detailed scene of the
experience leading up to the celebration of Juneteenth for David and
his family. The vivid story line captured goes amazingly well with
the beautiful vibrant illustrations of illustrator, Corey Barksdale.
Great children's book to share with the youth.
The rhyming text and stunning illustrations will teach children about this historic day in history.
Barbara - Goodreads Review
This picture book providing background on Juneteenth and its significance is a 3.5 for me. Drawing inspiration from the classic poem "Twas the Night before Christmas," the author builds suspense in a similar way, as David, the eight-year-old narrator, and other family members listen as his grandmother repeats the same stories related by her grandmother, who was a child on the first Juneteenth.
The rumors of freedom that spread through the community, the vivid imagination about what it might mean, how confirmation of those rumors arrived as well as how those around her reacted, celebrating and making plans for the future, all of these are expressed through the elderly woman's words, memories passed down from one generation to the next. With its engaging text and an Afterword, this book offers a solid introduction to Juneteenth, which is now a federal holiday, and could be useful in a classroom lesson on Juneteenth or the end of the Civil War.
The mixed media artwork, consisting of acrylic, oil, and pastel watercolor pencils, is simply outstanding, fitting the text perfectly with bright colors, resplendent double-page spreads that pulse with life and emotion, all rendered in an abstract expressionist style. The endpapers mirror the joyousness expressed in the book's pages by its characters, who seem to be dreaming of the possibilities that now lie before them.
This might be the illustrator's very first picture book, but it surely won't be the last since his work is quite impressive. Having the main story related by a young boy listening to his grandmother whose narrative carries the story allows for this "night before freedom" to become personal and quite meaningful. Even the pages on which his young ancestor has all sorts of notions about what freedom will mean and what form it will take.
The Night Before Freedom: A Juneteenth Story
This moving picture book tells the story of Juneteenth with all the
care and reverence such a holiday deserves. The rhyming text and
stunning illustrations will teach children about this historic day
in history.
'Twas the night before freedom, and all through the South,
long-whispered rumors had, spread word of mouth.
"It’s coming! It’s coming!" I heard people say.
"Emancipation is coming our way."
COREY BARKSDALE -Book Illustrations -
Twas the night before freedom, and all through the South
This book is dedicated to my daughter, Nora.
for being the light in my life and for insisting that I try
various creative outlets and forms of expression. And to all
my strong, resilient, and amazing ancestors,
who paved the way for me to be here today. -C.B.
North by Night: The Underground Railroad
The Underground Railroad was the secret
path that enslaved people used to escape from their owners.
This secret path was neither underground
nor a railroad. It got its name because the enslaved people
who took it disappeared without a trace, as if they were
traveling underground.
The Underground Railroad was made up of
hiding places known as “stations,” and the people who helped
them were known as “railroad workers.” Railroad workers and
enslaved people used quilt codes to send secret messages to
each other. Below are some of the quilt code patterns and
their hidden meanings.
Freedom's Eve -
Exploring a New Year's Eve tradition in many African American
churches commemorating the night in 1862 when enslaved Americans
stood vigil for the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.
On “Freedom’s Eve,” or the eve of January
1, 1863, the first Watch Night services took place. On that
night, enslaved and free African Americans gathered in
churches and private homes all across the country awaiting
news that the Emancipation Proclamation had taken effect. At
the stroke of midnight, prayers were answered as all enslaved
people in Confederate States were declared legally free. Union
soldiers, many of whom were black, marched onto plantations
and across cities in the south reading small copies of the
Emancipation Proclamation spreading the news of freedom in
Confederate States. Only through the Thirteenth Amendment did
emancipation end slavery throughout the United States.
But not everyone in Confederate territory would immediately be
free. Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was made
effective in 1863, it could not be implemented in places still
under Confederate control. As a result, in the westernmost
Confederate state of Texas, enslaved people would not be free
until much later. Freedom finally came on June 19, 1865, when
some 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. The
army announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved black
people in the state, were free by executive decree. This day
came to be known as "Juneteenth," by the newly freed people in
Texas.
Attempts were made to redress the inequities of slavery and its political, social, and economic legacy during Reconstruction
The post-emancipation period known as
Reconstruction (1865-1877) marked an era of great hope,
uncertainty, and struggle for the nation as a whole. Formerly
enslaved people immediately sought to reunify families,
establish schools, run for political office, push radical
legislation and even sue slaveholders for compensation. Given
the 200+ years of enslavement, such changes were nothing short
of amazing. Not even a generation out of slavery, African
Americans were inspired and empowered to transform their lives
and their country.
Juneteenth
is the oldest known holiday that commemorates the end of slavery
in the US
Juneteenth marks our country’s second
independence day. Although it has long celebrated in the
African American community, this monumental event remains
largely unknown to most Americans.
The historical legacy of Juneteenth shows the value of never
giving up hope in uncertain times. The National Museum of
African American History and Culture is a community space
where this spirit of hope lives on. A place where historical
events like Juneteenth are shared and new stories with equal
urgency are told.
Juneteenth Celebration
K-Gr 5–In this story of a family’s annual Juneteenth celebration, the matriarch recounts how her grandmother, Mom Bess, told the story of how she (at six years old) and her parents welcomed freedom on the first Juneteenth in 1865.
The Night Before Freedom: A Juneteenth Story
VERDICT Appropriate for elementary school libraries, and would also be an asset in a classroom library or as part of an elementary school lesson for kindergarten to fifth grade students.