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starsaligned's review against another edition
informative
inspiring
4.0
I loved reading this. The message of the book is so important for everyone to learn, but especially kids as they grow up and learn about our world.
danicapage's review
3.0
I went into this one blind. While it was not my favorite children’s book I’ve read, I enjoyed it. An intriguing one.
meezcarrie's review
5.0
“Freedom is for everyone. Juneteenth is YOU and ME.”
Before I get to the story of Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free, I absolutely have to mention how sweet the illustrations are. Adults and children alike will be drawn immediately to the endearing and beautiful artwork by Keturah A. Bobo – each scene is full of life and lots of heart. There are thoughtful details on each page that complement the text and make this a book that kiddos & those who read to them will reach for time after time.
I love that there are children’s books about Juneteenth, a pivotal day in history, because this was something I didn’t learn about until adulthood. Like, embarrassingly not that long ago. Children need to know the importance of freedom & the joy that comes with it – and they need to know history so their generation can stop repeating it. Alice Faye Duncan’s lilting writing voice is delightful, and she makes Opal Lee’s story come alive, with even adult readers feeling as though they’re gathered around Great-Grand Dear’s chair under that tree, hanging on her every word.
Bottom Line: Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free weaves one woman’s inspiring story into a larger tapestry of history, freedom, and celebration. Warmth exudes from each page, thanks to the charming illustrations and almost lyrical text, and readers will close the book smarter and full of gratitude & joy. Besides the history of Juneteenth and Opal Lee’s own true story, children (and adults) learn why this Freedom Day should matter to all of us, no matter our race or nationality or freckles (lol). Highly recommended for all readers!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Before I get to the story of Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free, I absolutely have to mention how sweet the illustrations are. Adults and children alike will be drawn immediately to the endearing and beautiful artwork by Keturah A. Bobo – each scene is full of life and lots of heart. There are thoughtful details on each page that complement the text and make this a book that kiddos & those who read to them will reach for time after time.
I love that there are children’s books about Juneteenth, a pivotal day in history, because this was something I didn’t learn about until adulthood. Like, embarrassingly not that long ago. Children need to know the importance of freedom & the joy that comes with it – and they need to know history so their generation can stop repeating it. Alice Faye Duncan’s lilting writing voice is delightful, and she makes Opal Lee’s story come alive, with even adult readers feeling as though they’re gathered around Great-Grand Dear’s chair under that tree, hanging on her every word.
Bottom Line: Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free weaves one woman’s inspiring story into a larger tapestry of history, freedom, and celebration. Warmth exudes from each page, thanks to the charming illustrations and almost lyrical text, and readers will close the book smarter and full of gratitude & joy. Besides the history of Juneteenth and Opal Lee’s own true story, children (and adults) learn why this Freedom Day should matter to all of us, no matter our race or nationality or freckles (lol). Highly recommended for all readers!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
sagadotter's review
4.0
The book of Opal Lee is a great and educational book for all children, it tells the story of freedom for black slaves and how that came about in a way that kids will understand. Though, I would say that there are some big words that may make it hard for kids to fully understand, but other than that I think it's an important book that should be in all kids bookshelf!
sunflowerjess's review
challenging
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
5.0
I grew up in the 80s and 90s never learning about Juneteenth or hearing about it. I wish I could say I was the exception, but the majority of my white peers never heard of it either. I also had never heard of Opal Lee before finding this book. I'm on a mission to educate myself and I very much enjoyed this book while doing so.
library_bookwyrm's review
4.0
An excellent introduction to Juneteenth and Opal Lee for littles, which an additional timeline and biographical information at the end, as well as a list of sources for those wanting to dig deeper into the story of this important holiday - as well as a recipe for Red Punch that sounds absolutely delicious!