Patricia and Fredrick McKissack are a writing duo that got their start when they decided they wanted to do something about the lack of children’s stories about African Americans. In this exclusive interview with Reading Rockets, Patricia and Fredrick McKissack talk about finding inspiration for their writing, their favorite books, their commitment to writing African American stories, and the power of reading to children.
The Emancipation Proclamation — that all enslaved people in Confederate states be freed — was signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, but it took two and a half years for the news of freedom to reach everywhere. Juneteenth (June 19th) commemorates the day that federal troops finally arrived in Galveston, Texas, in 1865 to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation and free the enslaved people there. Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021, and families across the country celebrate “Freedom Day” with community gatherings, parades, freedom walks, festivals — and sharing books together. To learn more:
Teaching About Juneteenth with Children’s Books (Lee and Low)
How Juneteenth (and Other Celebrations) Can Be Meaningful For Your Family (PBS Parents)
