Labor Day Heroes: Stories of Courage and Sacrifice in the Fight for Fairness

An RA Book List

As we approach Labor Day, a time to honor the hard work and dedication of the men, women, and children who have shaped our nation's history, we invite you to explore a collection of books that illuminate the diverse and inspiring stories behind this important holiday. Our Labor Day book list offers a range of reads, from the vibrant history of the first Labor Day celebration to the impactful lives of individuals who fought for workers' rights. Whether you’re interested in learning about the origins of Labor Day or delving into the struggles and triumphs of those who have advocated for fair labor practices, these selections provide engaging and educational insights into the world of labor and the enduring legacy of this American tradition.

The Bobbin Girl by Emily Arnold McCully

Set in 19th-century Lowell, Massachusetts, The Bobbin Girl follows 10-year-old Rebecca, who supports her family by working long hours in a cotton mill. As talk of wage cuts stirs unrest among the workers, Rebecca must decide whether to join a protest that could cost her job. Based on the true story of Harriet Hanson Robinson, this richly illustrated book offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of child labor and early efforts to fight for fair treatment. Readers will also learn about the daily lives of mill workers, making it ideal for elementary students studying the Industrial Revolution.

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Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers' Strike of 1909 by Michelle Markel; illustrated by Melissa Sweet

This picture book biography tells the true story of Clara Lemlich, a young Ukrainian immigrant who led the largest strike of women workers in U.S. history. Facing the harsh realities of immigrant life in the early 1900s, Clara traded her education for long hours in a factory but never gave up. She learned English, supported her family, and stood up against the mistreatment of women workers, helping to shape the labor movement and reminding us of the enduring fight for justice.

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Cesar Chavez: Champion and Voice of Farmworkers by Suzanne Slade; illustrated by Jeffrey Thomas

This picture book biography on César Chávez is an excellent choice for middle school or junior high readers who might not have the time to delve into a full biography but want a concise understanding of his life and contributions. The graphic novel-style illustrations make the book particularly engaging for this age group, offering a visually appealing way to learn about Chávez's impact.

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Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin; illustrated by Betsy Lewin

This is a hilarious story where literate cows take over Farmer Brown's farm by typing up a list of demands and essentially unionizing. Their clever antics throw the farm into chaos, showcasing a humorous battle of wills between the determined cows and a flustered Farmer Brown. The book is a delightful read that combines humor with a subtle lesson on negotiation and standing up for one's rights.

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Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers by Sarah Warren; illustrated by Robert Casilla

This picture book tells the inspiring story of Dolores Huerta, a former teacher who became a powerful advocate for migrant workers' rights. As a dedicated partner to César Chávez, she fought relentlessly to secure fair wages and better working conditions for California's grape pickers. While the narrative is simplified for young readers, the timeline at the end offers a deeper glimpse into the significant challenges she faced, including the racism and sexism that permeated her journey. Through this story, children learn not only about Huerta's extraordinary contributions but also about the enduring impact of her activism on the lives of countless workers.

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Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez by Kathleen Krull; illustrated by Yuyi Morales

This book uniquely centers on César Chávez's 340-mile march to protest the working conditions of migrant farmworkers in California, highlighting the historic 1965 grape strike. It follows Chávez from his childhood in Arizona, through his years of laboring in the fields, to his leadership in the strike that led to better conditions and higher pay for grape pickers. The story vividly recounts this significant moment in Chávez's fight for justice.

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Kid Blink Beats The World by Don Brown

In the summer of 1899, a group of young newsboys—Kid Blink, Race Track Higgins, Tiny Tim, Crutch Morris, and Crazy Arborn—took on the mighty newspaper tycoons Joseph Pulitzer and Randolph Hearst in a fight over a single penny. For these kids, that penny was a crucial part of their earnings, as it made a significant difference in their lives. This account of their strike against Pulitzer’s The World and Hearst’s The Journal offers a glimpse into the economic struggles and the power of organized labor from a historical perspective. The book captures the energy and determination of these young workers who made their voices heard despite the odds.

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Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop by Alice Faye Duncan; illustrated by R. Gregory Christie

This picture book captures the poignant story of the 1968 Memphis sanitation strike through the eyes of nine-year-old Lorraine Jackson, whose father is a sanitation worker involved in the protest. The two month strike, ignited by the tragic deaths of two workers due to unsafe equipment, saw Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. rallying for justice and better working conditions—a stand that would be his last before his assassination. This book is inspired by real-life accounts.

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Mother Jones and Her Army of Mill Children by Jonah Winter; illustrated by Nancy Carpenter

Mother Jones, known for her fierce advocacy, became a powerful voice against the harsh conditions faced by child mill workers. Outraged by their plight, she took bold action to fight for their rights and improve their working conditions. This book captures her determination and the impact of her efforts in the struggle for labor reform.

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The Only Woman in the Photo: Frances Perkins & Her New Deal for America by Kathleen Krull; illustrated Alexandra Bye

Frances Perkins transformed from a timid girl into a powerful force for change. Invited by FDR to be the first female Secretary of Labor, she played a crucial role in crafting his New Deal. This book showcases her significant contributions to establishing protections for American workers, laying the foundation for the systems that continue to support workers today.

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The Rooftop Adventure of Minnie and Tessa, Factory Fire Survivors by Holly Littlefield

This book tells the story of Minnie, a Jewish girl, and Tessa, an Italian Catholic, who work in a New York City sewing factory under harsh conditions. The girls’ friendship is tested and solidified during the infamous Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire of 1911. The graphic novel’s dark, detailed illustrations capture the peril and intensity of their experiences, culminating in a heroic moment that changes their lives. Additional historical context and resources are included at the end for further exploration. The writing is simple, but the format may entice otherwise reluctant readers.

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Side By Side/Lado a Lado by Monica Brown; illustrated by Joe Cepeda

This bilingual picture book offers a unique, side-by-side look at the childhoods of Dolores Huerta and César Chávez, tracing their parallel paths that eventually led to a powerful 30-year partnership. The story beautifully highlights how their early experiences shaped their lifelong commitment to fighting for the rights of migrant workers. Through their collaboration, they made a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals. The bilingual format makes this book accessible to a broader audience, enriching the reading experience and ensuring that the legacy of their activism reaches even more young readers.

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That’s Not Fair! Emma Tenayuca’s Struggle for Justice by Carmen Tafolia & Sharyll Teneyuca; illustrated by Terry Ybañez

Emma Tenayuca was deeply moved at a young age by the harsh conditions faced by pecan shellers who lived in severe poverty. Witnessing their struggles inspired her lifelong commitment to labor rights and social justice. This early exposure to injustice played a significant role in shaping her activism, leading her to become a prominent figure in the fight for workers' rights, particularly for Mexican-American laborers in Texas. This book was written by Emma’s niece and Emma’s personal friend.

In 2019, a stage play inspired by this picture book was created, bringing the powerful story of Emma Tenayuca's activism to life. I thought you'd enjoy seeing the poster from the production, which beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the story.

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What is a Union by Althea

This straightforward and simply told picture book introduces the basic concept of "what is a union?" in an accessible way. It's particularly well-suited for readers with lower verbal comprehension, making complex ideas more understandable.

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Which Side Are You On? The Story of a Song: The Story of a Song by George Ella Lyon; Illustrated by Christopher Cardinale

A gripping picture book that borders on graphic novel territory, delving into a gritty world of crooked sheriffs and the unwavering strength of mothers who craft songs that inspire generations.

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Longer Books for Independent Readers:

Forward March to Freedom; A Biography of A. Philip Randolph by Barbara Kaye Greenleaf

This short but powerful biography tells the story of A. Philip Randolph, a Black leader whose lifelong fight for civil rights centered on equal employment opportunities, labor union equality, and the integration of the U.S. Army. Randolph, a socialist and staunch opponent of Jim Crow laws, made significant strides for his people, winning against the Pullman Company and challenging lynch laws. His respectful demeanor and commitment to equality earned him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Ideal for middle and high school students, this book is an inspiring account of a man who treated everyone with dignity and fought tirelessly for justice.

This book is a Unicorn, which in no way surprises me, but it can be read for free on Archive.

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Labor Day (Carolrhoda On My Own Book) by Geoffrey Scott; illustrated by Cherie R. Wyman

This early reader introduces young minds to the origins of Labor Day, celebrating its first observance in New York City in 1882. Through engaging text and illustrations, children learn about the parade of ten thousand workers and the key figures who championed this significant holiday. A perfect introduction to understanding the history and importance of honoring the contributions of workers.

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Labor Day (A Crowell Holiday Book) by James Marnell; illustrated by Clare Romano and John Rosa

A bright and colorful exploration of Labor Day's origins and how it became a national holiday. While the narrative focuses on the historical significance and development of Labor Day, the illustrations bring a vibrant and cheerful touch to the story. This book is a perfect choice for introducing the holiday's history in a lively, engaging way, especially for kids who may not yet be ready to explore the heavier issues related to labor rights movements. This is also an early reader option.

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Madam Secretary: Frances Perkins by Elisabeth P. Myers

This biography highlights Frances Perkins, the first woman in the U.S. Cabinet, who championed social and economic justice. From her sheltered upbringing in Massachusetts to confronting urban poverty, she rose to prominence as Secretary of Labor during the Great Depression, revolutionizing American labor practices under President Roosevelt.

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No Time for School No Time for Play: The Story of Child Labor in America by Rhoda and William Cahn

This excellent book covers multiple areas of child labor throughout U.S. history, including up to the 1970s with migrant workers. It combines storytelling with factual information to highlight the ongoing efforts to ensure children have opportunities for a childhood and education. This was one of my favorites while compiling this booklist. Available on Archive to be read for free.

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The Story of Child Labor Laws by R. Conrad Stein

This book delves into the grim reality of child labor during the Industrial Revolution, focusing on the exploitation of children in New England's factories in the early 1800s. As businessmen sought cheap labor, children as young as five were forced to work long hours in dangerous, unsanitary conditions for minimal pay. Many of these children were poor immigrants who faced harsh working environments for little reward. The book explores how and when this exploitation came to an end and the efforts required to achieve this significant change.

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Ten Brave Women by Sonia Daugherty; illustrated by James Daugherty

One of the ten women featured in this book is Ida M. Tarbell, a determined journalist who uncovered the illegal operations of the Standard Oil Company. Her relentless pursuit of the truth and dedication to exposing the company's monopolistic practices led to a groundbreaking exposé. Thanks to her efforts, the Supreme Court dissolved Standard Oil and established a precedent against monopolies in America.

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Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: Flames of Labor Reform by Michelle M. Houle

This book examines the tragic 1911 fire at a New York garment factory that claimed the lives of 146 workers. It explores the dire conditions that led to the disaster and follows various individuals affected by the tragedy throughout the day. The narrative also covers the subsequent lawsuit and the legislative changes aimed at preventing similar disasters. While it tells a harrowing story, it does so with a focus on facts rather than sensationalism, making it a compelling and informative read. I couldn’t put it down. One of the few audiobooks for older readers on our list, this book includes photographs of the aftermath for those who want to visualize the scene more vividly.

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The Unions (Nineteenth Century America) by Leonard Everett Fisher

This book explores the rise of the American labor movement in the 19th century, when wage earners fought for fair wages, reasonable working hours, and better conditions. It covers the struggles and progress made by early labor leaders like William H. Sylvis, Frederick Douglass, Samuel Gompers, and Eugene Debs. Despite numerous challenges and setbacks, their efforts led to the founding of the American Federation of Labor and the celebration of the first Labor Day, highlighting a growing recognition of the shared interests between workers and industry.

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