Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
About this ebook
Some of the most important chapters of American history went untold for generations. Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre introduces young readers to the story of the thriving Greenwood community in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the devastating events of 1921, and the long silence that followed. It offers a powerful, age-appropriate way for young readers, families, and teachers to better understand the past and reflect on how history can help shape a better future.
In the early 1900s, Tulsa's Greenwood District was a flourishing African American community filled with schools, churches, businesses, libraries, and gathering places. Then, on May 31 and June 1, 1921, a mob of armed white Tulsans attacked Greenwood, destroying homes and businesses and leaving thousands homeless. For decades afterward, the story of the Tulsa Race Massacre remained largely suppressed.
Through the eloquent narrative of Carole Boston Weatherford and the moving artwork of Floyd Cooper, this narrative nonfiction picture book helps readers understand one of the worst incidents of racial violence in U.S. history. The book provides historical context while encouraging reflection, empathy, and hope for a more just future.
- Learn about the vibrant Greenwood District and gain a deeper understanding of what was lost when the community was attacked.
- Explore the history and lasting impact of the Tulsa Race Massacre through an accessible narrative designed for young readers.
- Discover how this important story was hidden from public awareness for decades and why it matters today.
- Experience the collaboration of award-winning author Carole Boston Weatherford and acclaimed illustrator Floyd Cooper.
- Build historical understanding while developing empathy and hope for the future.
Winner of the Coretta Scott King Book Awards for Author and Illustrator, Caldecott Honor Book, Sibert Honor Book, longlisted for the National Book Award, Kirkus Prize finalist, and Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Book, Unspeakable has earned recognition from major children's book and literary award organizations. Booklist called it "A must-have."
Discover a vital chapter of American history and explore how understanding the past can help shape a better future.
strongDownload the free educator guide here: https://lernerbooks.com/download/unspeakableteachingguide
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About the author
Carole Boston Weatherford is the author of numerous award-winning books and the winner of the 2025 Children's Literature Legacy Award. Her picture book BOX: Henry Brown Mails Himself to Freedom, illustrated by Michele Wood received a Newbery Honor. Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre, illustrated by the late Floyd Cooper, was a National Book Award longlist title, won the Coretta Scott King Award for author and illustrator, and received a Caldecott Honor and a Sibert Honor. She is dedicated to writing poetry for children and is the 2025 and 2026 Young People’s Poet Laureate. When she's not traveling or visiting museums, Carole is mining the past for family stories, fading traditions, and forgotten struggles. She lives in North Carolina.
