08 Jan 2024 Friends of John H. Johnson Museum debut a children’s book
Desha County — Friends of John H. Johnson Museum, the curators of the life and legacy of John H. Johnson have announced the release of their debut children’s book, “Johnny Was His Name: The Boy Who Grew Up To Become John H. Johnson.”
“Johnny Was His Name” shares the story of a nine-year-old Johnny Johnson, as he lived with his mother and Arkansas City residents, on top of the Arkansas City Levee for six weeks during the 1927 Flood. is an encouraging story of hope and perseverance in uncertain times.
The story shares how people, who may have had stark differences, united for a common goal. It gives a glimpse into an observant young Johnny Johnson, seeing people set aside their disagreements to support each other and be their brothers (and sisters) keepers during a natural disaster.
The book is a story of a boy before he would become John H. Johnson, the founder and publisher of Johnson Publishing Company and the iconic Ebony and Jet magazines.
Friends of John H. Johnson Museum said their book was conceived to give the public and educators a resource for learning about Johnson’s early years connected to Arkansas and American history.
“Before Mr. Johnson’s success, he was born and raised in Arkansas City and lived there for 15 years. His childhood story is important to Arkansas history, American history and World history, just as significant as his adult life because his formative years is where it all began.”
Educators will have access to free online multilevel lesson plans and activities aligned with the book and with academic standards. Funding to develop the lesson plans was made possible, in part, by a grant from the Black History Commission of Arkansas, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.
“Johnny Was His Name” book launch is scheduled for Jan. 19 on John H. Johnson’s birthday. The book is available in e-book, soft cover and hard cover formats; and can be purchased on Amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, booksamillion.com and other online retailers. For more information, visit johnhjohnsonmuseum.org.
