Official release
June 16.
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The Book
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Remembering Roots
How an American Classic Transformed the World
by Lucas L. Johnson II
As we approach the fiftieth anniversaries of Alex Haley's Pulitzer Prize–winning novel Roots and its landmark television adaptation, journalist Lucas L. Johnson II reflects on the enduring legacy through the voices of scholars, artists, genealogists, and original cast members like LeVar Burton and Ben Vereen.
A call to action, this book reaffirms that storytelling is not just an art — it's a path to healing.
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"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 & original cast member of Roots
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: Christopher Berkey
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 religion.
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
Finding the Good
Author
Two Men — One Old, One Young — Forever Changed by the Transforming Power of Forgiveness and Love
A powerful true story about an unlikely friendship between a young Black reporter and an elderly white man, revealing how forgiveness and love can bridge the deepest divides.
Youth Change Agent
Co-author (with Keith Strickland)
Empower a Young Person to Make the Transition to a Better Life
A practical guide for mentors, parents, and community leaders on empowering young people to overcome challenges and make the transition to a better life.
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.