P.J. Johnson is an American poet, performer, and educator, known for a body of work that intensely explores themes such as identity, race, family, and social justice. Her career is marked by highly impactful collections, such as her debut *Holding the Light* and the subsequent *My Brother's Name is Kenny*, both of which were critically acclaimed. Her style blends powerful lyricism with vivid storytelling, often drawing from the spoken word tradition. Alongside her writing career, she has played a significant role in academia, teaching at institutions including Yale University. Her contribution to literature has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, notably the Whiting Award, the Pushcart Prize, and the Princess Grace Award, affirming her status as an influential voice in contemporary poetry.