And If I Die Before I Wake: A Memoir

by George M. Johnson

They may be the author of the #1 most banned book in America, but George M. Johnson isn't finished telling their story yet. Written with unflinching emotion and unapologetic boldness, And If I Die Before I Wake is nothing short of a testimony -- one the world desperately needs to hear.

George M. Johnson is no stranger to death. In this debut adult memoir, readers are invited to witness as they navigate an HIV diagnosis, alcoholism, tremendous loss, and nationwide book bans over the span of 15 years. Through the highs and lows of life in the spotlight, they have clung to family and community like never before -- finding their most authentic self along the way.

Drawing inspiration from Toni Morrison, Jesmyn Ward, and Ta-Nehisi Coates, And If I Die Before I Wake explores grief, trauma, sexuality, and the Black family through the lens of transformation, healing, and hope. Poetic, grounded, and bursting with signature humor, this is New York Times-bestselling author George M. Johnson more bold, more brave, and more daring than ever.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, LGBT

224 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication November 10, 2026

About the author

George Matthew Johnson, more commonly known as George M. Johnson, is a queer Black American author, journalist, and activist. They are best known as the author of the memoir-manifesto All Boys Aren't Blue.

Reviews

[Ryan Brandenburg · Rating 4 out of 5]

This well-written memoir delves into the aftermath of the author’s bestselling book, “All Boys Aren’t Blue,” providing some background information along the way.

George (or Matthew) offers readers a glimpse into his younger life and the diagnosis of HIV he received at the age of 25. I found myself captivated by the author’s narrative and thoroughly enjoyed his writing style.

I would like to express my gratitude to NetGalley and the publisher, Farrar, Straus, and Giroux, for providing me with an advanced copy of this book, which is scheduled for release on November 10, 2026.

[Ada · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to come..