Capstone Young Readers, a leading publisher of children’s books and digital products and services, announces for February release Juneteenth for Mazie, just in time for Black History Month. This beautiful story by award-winning author and illustrator Floyd Cooper will captivate both children and adults.
June 19, 2015 marks the 150th anniversary of Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, and Juneteenth Independence Day. On June 19, 1865, soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing the end of the Civil War and the end of slavery in the United States – over two years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. Celebrated annually on June 19, Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of African-American citizens throughout the U.S. As of May 2014, 43 U.S. states and the District of Columbia have recognized Juneteenth as either a state holiday or a special day of observance.
2015 is also the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
“Floyd Cooper is a marvelous talent. We’re proud to work with him to celebrate such an important tradition,” said Ashley Andersen Zantop, Capstone Group Publisher and General Manager.
In Juneteenth for Mazie, Floyd Cooper creates a touching picture book of the history of Juneteenth. Set in the present, Mazie learns the struggles and the triumphs of her family’s past as she gets ready to celebrate Juneteenth, a great day in American history – the day her ancestors were no longer slaves. Through stunning illustrations in oil wash, Cooper captures young Mazie’s joy in this celebration of freedom.
“As a child, Juneteenth was another chance for me to gather with my many cousins, aunts, uncles, and grand folks for barbecue and soul music as we often did for many other holidays and birthdays. This book brings it all back to me and with a deeper understanding of what it’s all about. Juneteenth is joy! Juneteenth is happy!Juneteenth for Mazie is for everyone!” said Cooper.
