In this memoir, Johnson includes essays that are made of moments and vignettes from his life since childhood. All Boys Aren't Blue delves into the intersectional experiences of young queer men of color; hence, he offers a glimpse into his upbringing as a gay black man. The term ‘blue’ in the title has several meanings but the most prominent is the color being associated with masculinity. Therefore, Johnson probes into the concepts of masculinity used to define all men which are ingrained in our society. As such, he stresses that all boys are not blue since queer men deviate from heteronormative constructs.
The book focuses on subjects about toxic masculinity, sexuality, gender identity, systemic racism, consent, and family. Johnson narrates intimate stories about his life beginning with a violent encounter as a young boy. Through this, he dwells on aspects in our society that force an individual to fit into their definition of male and female. The essays illustrate his interaction with the world during young adulthood navigating the challenges of living as a queer person. Moreover, the text expounds on the racialized violence that puts black people more at risk in the current climate. He showcases how living your truth has its trials and triumphs therefore it is important to preach this gospel to the younger generation. Johnson highlights that it is up to the rest of society to extend and promote empathy towards changing the world for the better.
As an activist for the LGBTQIA communities, Johnson tells his story to further the discourse and create a supportive environment moving forward. Kirkus Reviews wrote “This title opens new doors, as the author insists that we don't have to anchor stories such as his to tragic ends: 'Many of us are still here. Still living and waiting for our stories to be told―to tell them ourselves.'
