Coming June 2026
Remembering
Roots
How an American Classic Transformed the World
By Lucas L. Johnson II
The Book
A Powerful, Deeply Personal Tribute
to the cultural phenomenon that reshaped how we understand race, family, and identity.
As we approach the fiftieth anniversaries of Alex Haley's Pulitzer Prize–winning novel Roots (1976) and its landmark television adaptation (1977), journalist and storyteller Lucas L. Johnson II reflects on the enduring legacy of Haley's work through the voices of those it continues to move, including scholars, artists, genealogists, students, and original cast members like LeVar Burton and Ben Vereen.
With vivid personal anecdotes, emotional tributes, and probing reflections, Remembering Roots shows how Haley's vision gave birth to a genealogy movement, inspired generations to reclaim their identities, and challenged America to confront its past. From a woman who watched the miniseries as a sixth grader and was inspired to become the first lawyer in her family, to a blind musician empowered by his father's retelling of Roots' most iconic scene, Johnson traces the ripple effects of Haley's griot storytelling across time and culture.
As debates rage over which histories get told, Remembering Roots boldly asserts the necessity to remember and retell our stories. A call to action, this book reaffirms that storytelling is not just an art — it's a path to healing.
Praise
What People Are Saying
Remembering Roots highlights the indomitability of the human spirit; and reminds us that, like our ancestors, as long as we continue to breathe, there's hope.
LeVar Burton
Award-winning actor, director, author, and original cast member of Roots
With Remembering Roots, Lucas L. Johnson II has offered us a gift. A testament to the enduring power of Alex Haley's Roots, this book is a heartfelt tribute to the cultural phenomenon that riveted the nation in the 1970s. Rich in detail and wide-ranging in scope, the personal recollections in Remembering Roots not only remind us of who we once were, but also offer insight into who we can still become.
Erica L. Ball
Professor of Black studies, Occidental College, and coeditor of Reconsidering Roots: Race, Politics, and Memory
Roots is one of the most influential books and television series of all time. It touched on themes of family, history, and national identity that were both universal and deeply personal. Lucas L. Johnson's book artfully weaves together dozens of voices, encouraging people to remember Roots.
Matthew F. Delmont
Professor of history at Dartmouth College and author of Making Roots: A Nation Captivated
Remembering Roots is a crucial portion of our dialogue as storytelling and genealogy evolve in the Black community. This work calls us not just to reflect on the impact of the seminal book and miniseries but also to continue the journey of telling the stories of how we found our stories.
Nicka Smith
Genealogist and senior story producer, Ancestry.com
About the Author
Photo: Lucas L. Johnson II
Lucas L. Johnson II
Lucas L. Johnson II is a former reporter for The Associated Press, where he worked for more than twenty years, mainly covering politics, education, and prison reform.
He is the author of Finding the Good and coauthor of Youth Change Agent. Johnson works in higher education and has taught high school and college students.
A freelance writer and communications strategist, Johnson lives in Nashville, Tennessee.
Previous Works
Booking
Book Lucas for Your Event
Lucas L. Johnson II is available for speaking engagements, book signings, panel discussions, and media appearances. His talks explore the enduring legacy of Roots, the power of storytelling, and the importance of preserving our collective history.
Speaking Engagements
Keynotes, lectures, and conference presentations on history, culture, and storytelling.
Panel Discussions
Moderated conversations on race, identity, genealogy, and the legacy of Roots.
Media & Interviews
Available for podcast appearances, print interviews, and broadcast media.
Booking contact details coming soon.