Johnny Was His Name: The Boy Who Grew Up To Become John H. Johnson
by Friends of John H. Johnson Museum

Johnny Was His Name offers a captivating journey through the historic Flood of 1927 from the perspective of a young boy, Johnny Johnson. This natural disaster had a significant impact, particularly in Arkansas, covering over 6,600 square miles and submerging thirty-six counties. Johnny Johnson, born in Arkansas City, experienced the devastation firsthand.

The story recounts nine-year-old Johnny and his mother living atop the Arkansas City levee for six weeks during the flood. It highlights the unity and cooperation among people of different backgrounds as they come together to survive this calamity. The narrative illustrates how Johnny, amidst the disaster, observed people setting aside their differences, embodying the spirit of being their brothers’ and sisters’ keepers.

This story is more than just a tale of survival; it’s about triumph in the face of tragedy, camaraderie during catastrophes, and discovering a sense of self-respect and "somebody-ness." It also serves as an introduction to the early life of John H. Johnson, who would later become the founder of Johnson Publishing Company and publisher of the iconic Ebony and Jet magazines.

Praised by various professionals like Janis F. Kearney, Roy Lewis, ReShonda Tate, and Deborah Mathis, Angela Courtney’s book offers new insights into the childhood that shaped one of America’s great leaders and publishers, John H. Johnson.