“Activist Johnson’s powerful debut is a timely testimony that echoes the social realities behind today’s #BlackLivesMatter protests.” — Publishers Weekly, starred review

Kim Johnson has a rich history of leadership, beginning with her early roles in social justice organizations during her teen years and throughout college. Her passion for creating positive change led her to a distinguished twenty-year career in higher education, where she served in various administrative roles, ultimately becoming a vice provost where she advanced equity and access. Today, she is a renowned author, speaker, and consultant, continuing her mission to inspire and drive change in the world.

Kim writes social thrillers ripped from the headlines tackling some of society’s most compelling issues through fast paced character driven stories. Her bestselling novel, This Is My America, won numerous 2021 accolades, including the Pacific Northwest Book Award and Malka Penn Human Rights Award for Children’s Literature. Her second novel, Invisible Son, was a 2023 LA Times Book Award Finalist for young adult literature. Both novels were selected as NPR Best Books and Kirkus Best Books. The Color of a Lie is her first historical thriller.

She holds degrees from the University of Oregon, University of Maryland, College Park, and an MFA from Oregon State University Cascades. She now lives in the Washington D.C area.

Kim's Featured Titles

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Engaging with Social Issues Through Storytelling

This hour-long interactive session aims to empower readers and writers to use their interests as a means of advocacy and social change. Drawing from my own work and tailored to your organization, I will discuss how fictional stories can connect to real-world social justice issues, the importance of historical context in writing along with methods for incorporating it effectively. Along with options to discuss strategies for engaging with communities through writing and reading, creating partnerships that promote social justice and community involvement.

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Incorporating Real-World Issues into Fiction

This hour-long interactive session focuses on integrating real-world social, political, and environmental issues into your fiction. Discover methods for researching current and historical topics and weaving them seamlessly into your storyline. We’ll cover how to balance fact and fiction, ensuring your story remains compelling while addressing important topics. offers essential tips and strategies for refining your writing.

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Writing and Revising: Mastering Storytelling

This hour-long interactive session offers essential tips and strategies for refining your writing. We’ll cover self-editing techniques to sharpen character voices and maintain narrative consistency, the process of seeking and incorporating feedback, and effective rewriting strategies to enhance character development and storytelling. The session includes interactive elements, such as live writing exercises or journal activities, to help you apply these techniques and improve your craft.

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Storytelling Through Research: Bringing Authenticity to Your Writing

Learn how to find reliable sources, verify historical facts, and incorporate them into your narrative. We’ll also discuss how to balance historical accuracy with creative storytelling, bringing past eras to life in a way that resonates with modern readers. Learn how to research different professions, psychological traits, and cultural backgrounds to create well-rounded, believable characters. We’ll discuss practical tips for interviewing experts, using online resources, and avoiding stereotypes.

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Radical Acts of Courage: Transformative Leadership

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Social Justice and Diverse Storytelling

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Writing Thrillers That Center Justice

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THIS IS MY AMERICA Discussion Guide Link

Honors, Awards & Recognition

THIS IS MY AMERICA

Malka Penn Award for Childrens Human Rights in Children’s Literature 2021
Florida Teens Read NOMINEE 2021
Missouri Gateway Readers Award NOMINEE 2022
Oklahoma Book Award NOMINEE 2022
Tennessee Volunteer State Book Award NOMINEE 2021
Bank Street College Best Children’s Book of the Year SELECTION 2021
Kansas State Reading Circle Award SELECTION 2020
Notable Books for a Global Society Award SELECTION 2021
YALSA Best Books for Young Adults SELECTION 2021
Pacific Northwest Book Award 2021
Project Lit Book Club Pick Selection 2020
Publishers Weekly Bestseller
Indie Books Bestseller

INVISIBLE SON

LA Times Book Award Finalist
Chicago Public Library’s Best of the Best Books SELECTION 2023
Project Lit Book Club Pick SELECTION 2024

Media Kit

By clicking the link below you will be directed to a Google Docs Folder
where you can download author photos and cover images.

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