Maya Johnson, an alumna of UCSB’s College of Creative Studies (CCS), is garnering attention for her memoir, “Searching for a Black Writer,” which was published in June as part of her Senior Capstone project. Johnson utilized her RAAB Writing Fellowship to self-publish her work, culminating in a heartfelt book launch on the CCS patio that attracted friends and professors alike.
Fast forward to November, and she filled the shelves of Chaucer’s Books with her presence, leading a talk that included readings from her memoir and a Q&A session. Johnson reflected on her experiences at UCSB, describing the vibrant college culture and the quest for identity that is often the norm among students.
During the event, UCSB professor Ellen O’Connell Whittet praised Johnson’s journey, encouraging her to continue writing. Johnson shared an excerpt from her memoir’s chapter “To Render,” which delves into her evolving relationship with a former professor and the challenges she faced regarding her writing’s value.
Johnson emphasizes the power of writing as a tool for healing. She faced the complexities of self-publishing, navigating various companies before selecting IngramSparks, which required her to learn Adobe InDesign for formatting.
“This is vulnerable writing. Opening up was hard,” she expressed candidly, acknowledging the fear and significance of sharing personal stories. The supportive crowd at Chaucer’s Books included friends, professors, and even strangers connecting with her journey.
Her memoir resonates with many, showcasing shared experiences among readers. “Knowing that other people with similar experiences resonate a lot with my work was cool,” Johnson noted, reinforcing the importance of her narrative.
Excitingly, Johnson is already working on her next project, a speculative fiction book that will explore identity in the context of today’s technological landscape. Her memoir is available on platforms like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and at various bookstores, ensuring more readers can access her powerful insights.
In a world where diverse voices are increasingly important, Maya Johnson’s memoir not only contributes to the literary landscape but also serves as a testament to the healing power of sharing one’s truth. Her journey inspires hope for aspiring writers everywhere.