Maya Johnson, a UCSB alumna, is garnering attention for her memoir, “Searching for a Black Writer,” published in June of this year as part of her Senior Capstone project at UCSB’s College of Creative Studies (CCS). This memoir represents a significant achievement, as Johnson utilized the RAAB Writing Fellowship to fund her self-publishing journey.
The initial reveal of her memoir took place during an intimate book launch at CCS, where friends, faculty, and fellow students gathered to hear excerpts read aloud. Recently, Johnson continued to engage with her audience during a reading and Q&A session at Chaucer’s Books, where she was accompanied by her professor and advisor, Ellen O’Connell Whittet. Whittet emphasized the importance of perseverance in writing, encouraging Johnson to “just keep writing.”
In her memoir, Johnson reflects on the complexities of college life at UC Santa Barbara, illustrating the contrast between the carefree party culture and the deeper personal struggles students face. Her writing captures the various experiences throughout her academic journey, including classes, conferences, and personal events, all while exploring her own identity and the interplay of her multiple identities.
Johnson shared that writing has served as a form of healing for her and that self-publishing presented its own set of challenges. Choosing the right publishing company and navigating the technical aspects of formatting and artwork were significant tasks. She acknowledged the hurdles young, queer, Black women writers face in the publishing industry, emphasizing the vulnerability that comes with exposing personal truths through writing. However, sharing her experiences has proven rewarding as she connects with readers who find resonance in her work.
The turnout at Chaucer’s was a mix of familiar faces and new ones, all interested in her journey and the insights she shared. It was a meaningful event for Johnson, who expressed fulfillment in knowing her story has touched others.
Looking ahead, Johnson is already immersed in her next project—a work of fiction that promises to explore themes of identity in the context of contemporary technology.
For those interested in exploring Johnson’s memoir, “Searching for a Black Writer” is available on platforms such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble and can also be found at various bookstores. The recording of her book talk is accessible on the Chaucer’s Books YouTube page, offering further insights into her writing journey.
In summary, Maya Johnson’s memoir not only highlights her personal experiences but also serves as an inspiration to others in the literary community, showcasing the power of self-expression and the importance of persistence in the face of challenges. Her commitment to exploring identity through writing sets a hopeful tone for both her current work and future endeavors.