The 1619 Project: Born on the Water

This picture book, adapted from The 1619 Project, tells the story of the arrival of enslaved Africans to America in 1619 through the perspective of a young Black girl learning about her ancestry. The narrative explores the forced journey across the Atlantic, the resilience of enslaved people, and how their descendants built lives and communities despite oppression. The book centers Black history and experiences, presenting complex historical topics in an age-appropriate way while honoring African heritage and the strength of Black families throughout generations.