Maya Johnson, a recent graduate of UCSB’s College of Creative Studies, has successfully launched her memoir, “Searching for a Black Writer,” which has been gaining traction among readers since its publication in June. The book originated as part of Johnson’s Senior Capstone project, and she leveraged the RAAB Writing Fellowship to self-publish it. The launch event took place at a cozy gathering on the CCS patio, where friends and faculty celebrated her work.
In November, Johnson held a reading and Q&A session at Chaucer’s Books, where she shared insights about her journey as a writer and the themes explored in her memoir. The book delves into her experiences at UCSB, presenting a candid reflection of the academic life, personal challenges, and identity as a young Black woman in a vibrant college environment.
Accompanying her during this event was UCSB professor Ellen O’Connell Whittet, who emphasized the importance of continuous writing. Johnson read from her chapter “To Render,” detailing a pivotal moment in her writing education that both validated and challenged her self-perception as a writer.
Self-publishing came with its own set of challenges for Johnson. She had to navigate the complex landscape of publishing, choosing the appropriate company and mastering the technical aspects of formatting her work. This journey was a testament to her resilience and dedication, as she bravely opened up about her life experiences, proving that writing can be a transformative and healing process.
The event attracted a diverse audience, including friends, faculty, and newcomers enthusiastic about her work. Johnson expressed the fulfillment she felt knowing that her writing resonated with others who share similar experiences.
Looking ahead, Maya Johnson is already at work on her next project—a fiction book infused with speculative elements that will further explore identity in the context of our tech-driven world. Readers can find “Searching for a Black Writer” at various outlets, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Chaucer’s Books, as well as on the Chaucer’s Books YouTube channel where her talk is recorded.
This story serves as a reminder of the power of personal narratives and the importance of diverse voices in literature. Johnson’s continued journey as a writer is inspiring, showcasing that overcoming obstacles in her passion can lead to connecting with others and paving the way for future projects that further the discourse on identity and cultural experiences.