Picture a storyteller who turned personal truths into a beacon for Black queer youth—meet George M. Johnson! This American author, journalist, and activist has captivated readers with their raw, heartfelt memoir-manifesto All Boys Aren’t Blue, a New York Times bestseller that’s both a love letter to their younger self and a guide for others navigating race, sexuality, and gender. With a voice that’s unapologetically bold, Johnson’s work is reshaping LGBTQIA+ literature.
Born in 1985, Johnson’s journey from a supportive family in New Jersey to a literary trailblazer is as inspiring as their writing. Their blend of vulnerability and activism has made them a cultural force, with their books sparking conversations and even facing bans for their fearless honesty.
The Making of George M. Johnson
George Matthew Johnson grew up in Plainfield, New Jersey, and later Virginia, in a family they describe as loving and affirming, even before they came out as queer at 25. This nurturing environment shaped their confidence to embrace their Black, nonbinary identity. Johnson attended Virginia Union University, a historically Black college, where they joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and later pursued graduate studies at Bowie State University. Their early career in higher education finance took a turn in 2013 when a friend’s encouragement led them to journalism, writing for outlets like Teen Vogue, Essence, and BuzzFeed. This pivot set the stage for their literary breakthrough.
George M. Johnson’s Unforgettable Stories
Johnson’s debut, All Boys Aren’t Blue (2020), is a collection of essays that weave their experiences as a Black queer boy with reflections on gender identity, toxic masculinity, and Black joy. Its candid discussions of bullying, sexual abuse, and first sexual encounters make it a vital resource for young adults, though its honesty has made it a target for book bans. Johnson’s second memoir, We Are Not Broken (2021), celebrates their grandmother’s role in raising four boys, offering a vibrant tale of family and resilience. Their 2024 release, Flamboyants, honors Black and queer icons of the Harlem Renaissance, blending history with personal narrative. Johnson’s style is conversational yet unflinching, balancing pain and triumph with a teacher’s clarity, making complex topics accessible to teens and adults alike.
Their work doesn’t shy away from tough topics—racism, homophobia, and trauma—but it’s infused with hope and a call for self-acceptance. Johnson’s ability to center Black queer experiences in a way that’s both specific and universal has earned them accolades, including the National Coalition Against Censorship’s Free Speech Defender Award.
Why George M. Johnson Matters
Johnson’s impact transcends the page. All Boys Aren’t Blue has been optioned for television by Gabrielle Union, signaling its cultural reach. As a prominent LGBTQIA+ activist, Johnson fights book bans through lawsuits and advocacy, ensuring queer youth of color see themselves in literature. Their work provides a roadmap for navigating identity in a world that often marginalizes, making them a beacon for young readers and allies. Recognized on TIME’s 100 Next Most Influential People list in 2022, Johnson’s influence continues to grow, inspiring a generation to live authentically.
- Born: 1985, Plainfield, New Jersey
- Key Works: All Boys Aren’t Blue (2020), We Are Not Broken (2021), Flamboyants (2024)
- Awards: Free Speech Defender Award (NCAC), TIME 100 Next (2022)
Snag All Boys Aren’t Blue and dive into George M. Johnson’s powerful blend of memoir and manifesto—your heart and mind will thank you!