Freedom in Congo Square
Book description
Winner of a Caldecott Honor and a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor
A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2016
A School Library Journal Best Book of 2016: Nonfiction
Starred reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist, Kirkus Reviews, and The Horn Book Magazine
A Junior Library Guild Selection
This poetic, nonfiction…
Why read it?
4 authors picked Freedom in Congo Square as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
I love Gregory Christie’s artwork. His naïf style illustrations may seem crude and simple at first glance, but I think they are incredibly rhythmic and powerful.
His images pair seamlessly with the book's lyrical text, which depicts the awful hardships that enslaved people in New Orleans endured and the joy they felt on Sundays when they were free to play music, dance, and spend time together in Congo Square.
From Duncan's list on celebrating Black music dance with illustrations.
This is not just a book; it's a portal to a pivotal piece of history.
As an artist deeply intertwined with music and performance, I am drawn to how this book celebrates the cultural significance of Congo Square as a place of solace and communal joy for enslaved people. The lyrical storytelling and vibrant illustrations resonate with the power of music and dance, echoing the importance of cultural expression in our lives.
This book is a vital read for its historical significance and its ability to inspire through resilience.
From Idris' list on books to read aloud to children.
I love this delightful poetic book. I learned why Congo Square in New Orleans was so important for slaves. After a week of hard work, slaves gathered in Congo Square on Sundays.
I felt like I was there, visiting the markets, seeing the colorful sights, hearing the festive music, and dancing as the sounds swirled around me, not wanting any of it to end.
From Margaree's list on using music and history to inspire children.
This brilliant book tells the story of a lesser-known piece of African American history. Congo Square in New Orleans was a place where slaves were free to set up an open market, sing, dance, and play music...but only on Sundays for half a day. If you ever feel down this is a reminder of how indomitable the human spirit can be in the face of unspeakable adversity.
From Laura's list on award-winning, illustrated books on African American history.
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