New book looks back on flood and Johnson

Friends of John H. Johnson Museum announced the release of their debut children’s book, “Johnny Was His Name: The Boy Who Grew Up To Become John H. Johnson.”

The late Johnson was founder of Johnson Publishing Co., which produced Ebony and Jet magazines.

“Johnny Was His Name” shares the story of a 9-year-old Johnson as he lived with his mother and other residents on top of the Arkansas City levee for six weeks during the 1927 flood. “Johnny Was His Name” is an encouraging story of hope and perseverance in uncertain times, according to a news release.

The story shares how people, who may have stark differences, united for a common goal. It gives a glimpse into an observant young Johnson, seeing people set aside their disagreements to support each other and be their brothers’ (and sisters’) keeper during a natural disaster.

“Johnny Was His Name” is a story of the youth before he would become John H. Johnson, the founder and publisher of Johnson Publishing Co.

The museum is located in Arkansas City, where Johnson was born. 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,” a spokesperson said.

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.

A book launch for “Johnny Was His Name” 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.

Details: www.johnhjohnsnomuseum.org or Angela Courtney at angela@johnhjohnsonmuseum.org.