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13 Days in Ferguson
On August 14, 2014, five days after the fatal shooting of Michael Brown ignited race riots throughout the city of Ferguson, Missouri, the nation found an unlikely hero in Captain Ron Johnson of the Missouri Highway Patrol. Charged with the Herculean task of restoring peace between a hostile African American community and the local police, Johnson, a 30-year law enforcement veteran and an African American, did the unthinkable; he took off his bullet-proof vest and joined the protesters.
The 13 days and nights that followed were the most trying of Johnson's life--professionally, emotionally, and spiritually. Officers in his own command called him a traitor. Lifelong friends stopped speaking to him. The media questioned and criticized his every decision. Alone at the center of the firestorm, with only his family and his faith to cling to, Johnson persevered in his belief that the only way to effectively bridge the divide between black and blue is to--literally--walk across it.
In 13 Days in Ferguson, Johnson shares, for the first time, his view of what happened during the thirteen turbulent days he spent stabilizing the city of Ferguson, and the extraordinary impact those two historic weeks had on his faith, his approach to leadership, and on what he perceives to be the most viable solution to the issues of racism and prejudice in America.
The 13 days and nights that followed were the most trying of Johnson's life--professionally, emotionally, and spiritually. Officers in his own command called him a traitor. Lifelong friends stopped speaking to him. The media questioned and criticized his every decision. Alone at the center of the firestorm, with only his family and his faith to cling to, Johnson persevered in his belief that the only way to effectively bridge the divide between black and blue is to--literally--walk across it.
In 13 Days in Ferguson, Johnson shares, for the first time, his view of what happened during the thirteen turbulent days he spent stabilizing the city of Ferguson, and the extraordinary impact those two historic weeks had on his faith, his approach to leadership, and on what he perceives to be the most viable solution to the issues of racism and prejudice in America.
277 pages, Hardcover
Published August 7, 2018
About the author
Ronald Johnson
1 book12 followersCaptain Ronald S. Johnson was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. He holds a criminal justice degree, is a graduate of Northwestern University Traffic Institute of Police Staff and Command, and a 2014 graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy. He is certified in police instruction and the development and Implementation of assessment center exercises for command level staff officers. Captain Johnson and his wife, Lori, have been married for twenty-nine years and have two adult children, Amanda and Bradley.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 5, 2018
Star rating: 5.0+
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Did I get your attention?
Reading books about social issues, political and social unrest, and challenges within the African American community is nothing new to me. The common thread for all of my prior reads is that they speak to the voices of the disenfranchised. They never speak from the voice of the man. I honestly never considered that a law enforcement official had anything to add to the story. That is, until now...
Captain Ronald Johnson's memoir is a profound and candid tale about the 13 days that kept this country's eyes glued on the city of Ferguson, Missouri. Captain Johnson does not shy away from speaking about how his spirituality, his ethnicity, and his upbringing influence the man and leader he has become.
Captain Ronald Johnson, along with Alan Eisenstock, has produced a poignant and eloquent work that chronicles his experiences while leading the law enforcement efforts during one of our most turbulent times in modern history. Johnson does not shy away from his own fears and apprehensions.
Overall, I found this book easy to read and extremely refreshing. Here it is a story about a man trying to maintain his humanity during a time of severe civil unrest. Here it is a story about a man, in uniform, trying to maintain the law of the land, while trying to ensure that people he serves are protected, seen and heard.
Make time for this book...💖
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Michael Brown's shooting ignited the fire.
Michael Brown's body burned the city down.
Did I get your attention?
Reading books about social issues, political and social unrest, and challenges within the African American community is nothing new to me. The common thread for all of my prior reads is that they speak to the voices of the disenfranchised. They never speak from the voice of the man. I honestly never considered that a law enforcement official had anything to add to the story. That is, until now...
"We're all biased in some way, every one of us. It's what we do with our bias that matters. We can't allow it to affect our attitudes, influence our decisions, or inform our behavior...Ignoring our biases or believing they are truth...that's when bias becomes bigotry and prejudice becomes racism".
Captain Ronald Johnson's memoir is a profound and candid tale about the 13 days that kept this country's eyes glued on the city of Ferguson, Missouri. Captain Johnson does not shy away from speaking about how his spirituality, his ethnicity, and his upbringing influence the man and leader he has become.
"I believe--with all my heart--that every good policeman must have compassion. Empathy. We need to feel for each other. We need to learn to lead with our hearts..In order for policing to work, we have to come into the community, talk to the people...and listen. We have to listen".
Captain Ronald Johnson, along with Alan Eisenstock, has produced a poignant and eloquent work that chronicles his experiences while leading the law enforcement efforts during one of our most turbulent times in modern history. Johnson does not shy away from his own fears and apprehensions.
"Hope will arise--from our pain, from our distrust, from our sorrow, from our ashes".
Overall, I found this book easy to read and extremely refreshing. Here it is a story about a man trying to maintain his humanity during a time of severe civil unrest. Here it is a story about a man, in uniform, trying to maintain the law of the land, while trying to ensure that people he serves are protected, seen and heard.
"We have to keep reaching--until our hands are no longer empty...until we can hold on to each other".
Make time for this book...💖
November 3, 2018
"Since taking over the responsibility for security in Ferguson, I've felt even more alone than ever. But as I look at these [rosary] beads in my hand, I know that I'm not alone. I have a 'partner'." -- page 207
Captain Ron Johnson, a veteran officer with the Missouri Highway Patrol and a native to the general area, was assigned by the state government to be front-line commander for all police operations in the powder-keg situation of Ferguson, MO in August 2014. How does a person handle being in such an unenviable but necessary post? Johnson relies on his strong Christian faith, as well as a certain faith in his fellow human beings, but do not mistake him as naive or weak. From this memoir of those tumultuous two weeks, he comes across as an thoughtful moderate or 'middle of the road' sort of guy, willing to listen to / attempting to find a common ground with both sides in a touchy situation. You get the impression that he would bust heads only as an absolute last resort, but he'd much rather "want civility to prevail . . . I want peace. That is after all, my ultimate role - peacekeeper."
I also liked reading about the brief sections about his background, the experiences and family life that influenced him on becoming a police officer and affects his decision-making process on the job.
Captain Ron Johnson, a veteran officer with the Missouri Highway Patrol and a native to the general area, was assigned by the state government to be front-line commander for all police operations in the powder-keg situation of Ferguson, MO in August 2014. How does a person handle being in such an unenviable but necessary post? Johnson relies on his strong Christian faith, as well as a certain faith in his fellow human beings, but do not mistake him as naive or weak. From this memoir of those tumultuous two weeks, he comes across as an thoughtful moderate or 'middle of the road' sort of guy, willing to listen to / attempting to find a common ground with both sides in a touchy situation. You get the impression that he would bust heads only as an absolute last resort, but he'd much rather "want civility to prevail . . . I want peace. That is after all, my ultimate role - peacekeeper."
I also liked reading about the brief sections about his background, the experiences and family life that influenced him on becoming a police officer and affects his decision-making process on the job.
August 22, 2018
It's his memoir and his experience. For that it is a 5 star.
It's faith based and heavily emotive at core telling of his own "outlook" and experiences for the 13 days in Ferguson after Michael Brown's demise.
To paraphrase Ronald Johnson "people are just people" and "I came in with some bias, and left with bias against me".
The way it is written (style is so heavily emotion sodded yet coupled with such serious responsibility "eyes") in a rather meandering manner that doesn't always connote subsequent reality. Where are people who live in Ferguson shopping now?
I feel truly sorry for the demolished or burnt out residents and store owners who had nothing to do with most events at all and Ronald Johnson's wife in particular. Some of the onus of his actions (Ronald Johnson) were not wise. Nor to most involved, productive, either. Idealism means little to widows and children survivors.
It's faith based and heavily emotive at core telling of his own "outlook" and experiences for the 13 days in Ferguson after Michael Brown's demise.
To paraphrase Ronald Johnson "people are just people" and "I came in with some bias, and left with bias against me".
The way it is written (style is so heavily emotion sodded yet coupled with such serious responsibility "eyes") in a rather meandering manner that doesn't always connote subsequent reality. Where are people who live in Ferguson shopping now?
I feel truly sorry for the demolished or burnt out residents and store owners who had nothing to do with most events at all and Ronald Johnson's wife in particular. Some of the onus of his actions (Ronald Johnson) were not wise. Nor to most involved, productive, either. Idealism means little to widows and children survivors.
April 26, 2018
This book, from the perspective of the captain in charge of police forces during the upset in Ferguson, Missouri, should be required reading for those who feel "on the fence" about the issue. Johnson brings nuance, sentimentality, and honesty to a heated issue. It is very Christian faith-based, so if that isn't your cup of tea, it might put you off a little. However, it is still very much worth a read.
June 21, 2019
If you want to find out what it was like for law enforcement during the death of Michael Brown death this is the book for you. The killing of a young African American teen is all too common in the United States. Michael Brown's death by a police officer set off riots throughout Ferguson, Missouri which left part of the city in flames and ashes. The death of Michael Brown and the police response is told in this book by an officer who was responsible for the end of the Ferguson riots. This book is told from the perspective of a law enforcement agent who is also African American and a resident of Ferguson. Michael Brown's death and the citizens' reaction to the shooting death and treatment of his body is reflected upon by someone who has experienced the racist environment of the police force and some law enforcement officers. I gave this book five stars because I found it to be one of the most honest tellings of what was going on behind the scenes at such a trying time for the residents and police officials during a race influenced shooting. This book gives one an inside look into the thoughts and actions of those who were in charge of the investigation and handling of a mass of people who were angry over the police brutality they experienced and witnessed in their community. Michael Brown's death was just the pinnacle of the bad relations between the police of Missouri and people who are of African or Hispanic descent. This story is as real as real can get and I found myself seeing both sides of the Michael Brown story. This book was well written and very informative as well as touching. I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the police shooting death of Michael Brown and the riots that followed.
July 13, 2018
This book was a well written memoir on Captain Ronald Johnson's time in Ferguson as a State Trooper when he helped restore the peace after the rioting started. I can't imagine what it would of been like to be there at that time, but this book gives readers a glimpse into what it was like for Captain Johnson. Thought provoking and insightful, this was a wonderful read on some difficult subjects. This book should be required reading.
I received this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.
I received this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.
August 8, 2018
13 Days in Ferguson is one of the most eye-opening books I've ever read, and I've read thousands of great books.
Captain Ronald Johnson of the Missouri State Highway Patrol was put in charge of the chaotic situation that raged in Ferguson, MO after Michael Brown's death in August 2014. In this book, he tells his story of 13 days of difficult service in his beloved hometown, about 100 miles from where I live.
In 13 Days in Ferguson, Capt. Johnson gives a play-by-play view of what really happened during those two difficult weeks for Missouri and the whole nation. Michael Brown's death touched a nerve for people who had felt invisible, marginalized and discounted for generations. This book gives them a voice and affirms their struggles, which I had never really considered before.
13 Days in Ferguson has helped me see various sides of the entire picture of racism. Through Capt. Johnson's stories, I empathized with the fears of the white cops, the frustration of restless young black men, the deep hurts of black mothers, and the press members' desire to tell the truth. The excerpt of his powerful, heartfelt speech at Michael Brown's memorial service resounded in my heart for days after reading.
Capt. Johnson paints a vivid, multilayered portrait of a complex problem with compassion and understanding for everyone involved while still holding criminals responsible for their actions. He had an incredibly tough assignment for those 13 days, which he has turned into a valuable lesson for all who read this book.
From start to finish, this book is packed full of surprising, challenging, thought-provoking viewpoints on racism and prejudice in my home state and the whole nation. I desperately need these paradigm-shifts as a Christian, Caucasian, Missourian, and mother of three.
Capt. Johnson opens the book with a scene of misunderstanding--his misinterpretation of interaction with whites, which instantly disarms you, because you can put yourself in the same situation. He talks about facing prejudice from fellow officers and shares an interesting vignette about being pulled over in his hometown after the riots stopped. I appreciated the humility and compassion in his writing voice. We all struggle with racism in our hearts, and it won't get any better until we start listening to each other.
Once in a while, a book comes along that permanently changes your perspective on an important topic; 13 Days in Ferguson is that book for me.
No matter which side of the political fence you stand on, Capt. Johnson has some wise, well-earned opinions to share with you. His voice is gentle yet strong, and I have immense respect for his vantage point.
If you're looking for a book to challenge your assumptions and help you reconsider your stance on our cultural issues, 13 Days in Ferguson may be the most important book you read in 2018.
Tyndale Momentum graciously provided a review copy of this excellent book for me.
Captain Ronald Johnson of the Missouri State Highway Patrol was put in charge of the chaotic situation that raged in Ferguson, MO after Michael Brown's death in August 2014. In this book, he tells his story of 13 days of difficult service in his beloved hometown, about 100 miles from where I live.
In 13 Days in Ferguson, Capt. Johnson gives a play-by-play view of what really happened during those two difficult weeks for Missouri and the whole nation. Michael Brown's death touched a nerve for people who had felt invisible, marginalized and discounted for generations. This book gives them a voice and affirms their struggles, which I had never really considered before.
13 Days in Ferguson has helped me see various sides of the entire picture of racism. Through Capt. Johnson's stories, I empathized with the fears of the white cops, the frustration of restless young black men, the deep hurts of black mothers, and the press members' desire to tell the truth. The excerpt of his powerful, heartfelt speech at Michael Brown's memorial service resounded in my heart for days after reading.
Capt. Johnson paints a vivid, multilayered portrait of a complex problem with compassion and understanding for everyone involved while still holding criminals responsible for their actions. He had an incredibly tough assignment for those 13 days, which he has turned into a valuable lesson for all who read this book.
From start to finish, this book is packed full of surprising, challenging, thought-provoking viewpoints on racism and prejudice in my home state and the whole nation. I desperately need these paradigm-shifts as a Christian, Caucasian, Missourian, and mother of three.
Capt. Johnson opens the book with a scene of misunderstanding--his misinterpretation of interaction with whites, which instantly disarms you, because you can put yourself in the same situation. He talks about facing prejudice from fellow officers and shares an interesting vignette about being pulled over in his hometown after the riots stopped. I appreciated the humility and compassion in his writing voice. We all struggle with racism in our hearts, and it won't get any better until we start listening to each other.
Once in a while, a book comes along that permanently changes your perspective on an important topic; 13 Days in Ferguson is that book for me.
No matter which side of the political fence you stand on, Capt. Johnson has some wise, well-earned opinions to share with you. His voice is gentle yet strong, and I have immense respect for his vantage point.
If you're looking for a book to challenge your assumptions and help you reconsider your stance on our cultural issues, 13 Days in Ferguson may be the most important book you read in 2018.
Tyndale Momentum graciously provided a review copy of this excellent book for me.
January 10, 2019
4.5 stars. When the events happened in Ferguson, Missouri in August 2014, I only casually followed the news. I didn't understand all of what was happening and I didn't always know what to believe. This is why I like first-person accounts of events, and while I know that Ron Johnson's account doesn't tell the whole story, it's an important work.
13 Days in Ferguson walks readers through Johnson's experience as a Missouri State Highway Patrol captain from his initial response to the protests and violent acts after Michael Brown's death to his charge to lead the security effort in Ferguson to his vision for Ferguson in the future.
I wanted to read this book because of Johnson's perspective--as a black man and a law enforcement officer, he has a unique position in the conversation about race and policing. I felt he was honest in his recollection of the events and he didn't paint one group in a more favorable light than the other. He strikes me as a man caught in the middle and using that position to try to bridge the gap. I was inspired by his community policing efforts and the sincerity of his hopes.
I'm glad I added this to my racial justice reading.
13 Days in Ferguson walks readers through Johnson's experience as a Missouri State Highway Patrol captain from his initial response to the protests and violent acts after Michael Brown's death to his charge to lead the security effort in Ferguson to his vision for Ferguson in the future.
I wanted to read this book because of Johnson's perspective--as a black man and a law enforcement officer, he has a unique position in the conversation about race and policing. I felt he was honest in his recollection of the events and he didn't paint one group in a more favorable light than the other. He strikes me as a man caught in the middle and using that position to try to bridge the gap. I was inspired by his community policing efforts and the sincerity of his hopes.
I'm glad I added this to my racial justice reading.
September 6, 2018
Very engaging book. Fantastic first hand account of what it was like to be there and the toll it took on our law enforcement. The author being from the area and being able to sympathize with both sides, fighting his feelings and duties, taking flack from peers and neighbors. Very good read.
October 30, 2018
People expecting a quasi-legal fault-finding with the Ferguson PD or anything else, should move on.
Instead, this is a mix of what Ron Johnson did on the streets of Ferguson combined with a mini-biography of how he became a captain in the Missouri State Police and got to this point.
Take it at face value and it's a five-star book.
Contra some reviewers, while some of Johnson's actions might be moderately second-guessed, he made no big mistakes. Then gov-Jay Nixon was among those who said so.
Otherwise, it's sad to see racism still inside police departments. I hope Johnson made some friends to replace those he lost. I hope some white officers and black residents both found enlightenment. And, I hope that a certain string of leftists will accept that not all black police offers are co-opted by "the system." Johnson clearly was not.
Instead, this is a mix of what Ron Johnson did on the streets of Ferguson combined with a mini-biography of how he became a captain in the Missouri State Police and got to this point.
Take it at face value and it's a five-star book.
Contra some reviewers, while some of Johnson's actions might be moderately second-guessed, he made no big mistakes. Then gov-Jay Nixon was among those who said so.
Otherwise, it's sad to see racism still inside police departments. I hope Johnson made some friends to replace those he lost. I hope some white officers and black residents both found enlightenment. And, I hope that a certain string of leftists will accept that not all black police offers are co-opted by "the system." Johnson clearly was not.
August 10, 2018
This is one of the best books I have read in a very long time. I could not put it down. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys memoirs or wants to lean a little more about what happened after the death of Michael Brown. It really opens your eyes to the relationship between race and law enforcement.
August 7, 2018
Inspiring
Very few books have the ability to influence society. This book is one of them. A story most Americans know, told by the man trying to prevent what could have turned out to be a full on civil war, fought on the streets on everyday America. Many historical/biographical books are difficult to read... This book was so well written that the account flows in an easy to read and understand format. The best nonfiction I've read in a very long time. Giveaway win.
Very few books have the ability to influence society. This book is one of them. A story most Americans know, told by the man trying to prevent what could have turned out to be a full on civil war, fought on the streets on everyday America. Many historical/biographical books are difficult to read... This book was so well written that the account flows in an easy to read and understand format. The best nonfiction I've read in a very long time. Giveaway win.
August 23, 2018
This was a fast read. In one sentence this book could be summed up as: Relationships between African-Americans and law enforcement may be difficult, but being an African-American law enforcement officer may be even more difficult at times.
Captain Johnson had an unenviable assignment -- to calm the streets of Ferguson, MO subsequent to riots that broke out after a young unarmed black man was shot by a policeman -- and he succeeded.
Johnson's story is not lengthy or excessively wordy. Johnson himself comes across as humble and able to engage in self-criticism.
A good book. I'd love to have Capt. Johnson over for dinner, or have him police my town.
I rec'd an ARC in exchange for the notion that I might write a review.
Captain Johnson had an unenviable assignment -- to calm the streets of Ferguson, MO subsequent to riots that broke out after a young unarmed black man was shot by a policeman -- and he succeeded.
Johnson's story is not lengthy or excessively wordy. Johnson himself comes across as humble and able to engage in self-criticism.
A good book. I'd love to have Capt. Johnson over for dinner, or have him police my town.
I rec'd an ARC in exchange for the notion that I might write a review.
August 9, 2018
#45 for 2018 Find my review at http://laurensparks.net/2018/08/13-da....
June 27, 2022
This is a memoir that focuses heavily on the author’s personal experiences. That’s natural for a memoir, but I had hoped to come away from this book with a deeper understanding of what the Ferguson Riots were really about. However, Johnson takes a very broad approach to the events through much of the book. Mostly, he notes that people were upset, angry, and felt they weren’t being heard. But I don’t know what it was they wanted heard. They wanted answers, but the questions aren’t made clear. He listens, but we don’t get a lot about what he hears.
I wonder if Captain Johnson’s goal was more to give a model about how police can do a better job of becoming part of the community, than to address Ferguson in particular. Toward the end, he meets with a group of high school student, one of whom finally articulates what seems to be a key driver behind the protests and riots. One young women says they don’t trust the police because, “we feel that you think you’re above the law.... you act like you can do basically anything you want—anything—and get away with it, because you wear that uniform.”
Primarily, the memoir follows how Captain Ronald Johnson dealt with being abruptly thrust into leadership in a very volatile situation. There is no one to give him guidance or advice, and he doesn’t seem to seek it. I imagine he was chosen for the very reason he struggles. He identifies with both groups—the police officers and the protestors. But reading his account, he seemed to identify more with the protestors, and I empathized with the officers as he seemed willing to sacrifice their safety in an effort to resolve the issue. He wants to communicate with the protestors, but when he is among the officers he is leading, he is silent. Maybe that’s customary in leadership in police situations, but he often references that his fellow officers resented him, and I wonder if it’s because as a leader he didn’t communicate with or empathize with them. But I do admire that he was leading by example.
He also shares how it feels to be the target of racism. I was surprised at just how frequently racist comments were used against him just in the 13 days covered in this book, at how often a particular word is still used.
Captain Johnson is a Christian man, and he shares his faith overtly throughout the book, but as his faith and not in an evangelical manner. He is open and honest about his feelings and regrets. But I can’t help but think it is the nature of memoir to edit what you share because what you share will be permanent and public. I think everyone who writes a memoir is affected by this. How a person wants to be perceived and remembered is going to impact what they share, and don’t share, and how they share it. An author’s motives behind why he’s writing the book will shape the content.
I imagine there was a lot more Captain Johnson could have shared about his thoughts and feelings. I think that would have made this a more powerful book, but I don’t think it would have reflected his goal for the book. I think his goal was to look at what happened in a way that would not reignite strife. He was working toward bringing peace, and sharing a positive model for how to improve relations between the police and the community.
I wonder if Captain Johnson’s goal was more to give a model about how police can do a better job of becoming part of the community, than to address Ferguson in particular. Toward the end, he meets with a group of high school student, one of whom finally articulates what seems to be a key driver behind the protests and riots. One young women says they don’t trust the police because, “we feel that you think you’re above the law.... you act like you can do basically anything you want—anything—and get away with it, because you wear that uniform.”
Primarily, the memoir follows how Captain Ronald Johnson dealt with being abruptly thrust into leadership in a very volatile situation. There is no one to give him guidance or advice, and he doesn’t seem to seek it. I imagine he was chosen for the very reason he struggles. He identifies with both groups—the police officers and the protestors. But reading his account, he seemed to identify more with the protestors, and I empathized with the officers as he seemed willing to sacrifice their safety in an effort to resolve the issue. He wants to communicate with the protestors, but when he is among the officers he is leading, he is silent. Maybe that’s customary in leadership in police situations, but he often references that his fellow officers resented him, and I wonder if it’s because as a leader he didn’t communicate with or empathize with them. But I do admire that he was leading by example.
He also shares how it feels to be the target of racism. I was surprised at just how frequently racist comments were used against him just in the 13 days covered in this book, at how often a particular word is still used.
Captain Johnson is a Christian man, and he shares his faith overtly throughout the book, but as his faith and not in an evangelical manner. He is open and honest about his feelings and regrets. But I can’t help but think it is the nature of memoir to edit what you share because what you share will be permanent and public. I think everyone who writes a memoir is affected by this. How a person wants to be perceived and remembered is going to impact what they share, and don’t share, and how they share it. An author’s motives behind why he’s writing the book will shape the content.
I imagine there was a lot more Captain Johnson could have shared about his thoughts and feelings. I think that would have made this a more powerful book, but I don’t think it would have reflected his goal for the book. I think his goal was to look at what happened in a way that would not reignite strife. He was working toward bringing peace, and sharing a positive model for how to improve relations between the police and the community.
September 1, 2018
I appreciated the insight of Ronald Johnson's internal struggle and behavior during his time in Ferguson. The problem with memoirs, and this is no exception, is that reality is based on perception. Johnson would have you believe most of his interactions with protestors were friendly. That he was praised by the community.
I was there. I was a protestor. I can tell you, dear reader, that his reality and perception is different than mine. Johnson sounds very much like our current president after the events in Charlottesville. That there are good and bad on both sides. Johnson doesn't delve much into the specifics of why Ferguson was a powder keg. While he says he is just a flawed black man, he stands behind his badge - and that badge & the people behind it are the reason we took the streets in the first place. I look forward to seeing books by people from the protests. Memories that more clearly aligned with my own, and the nightmares that still plague me today.
If you are so inclined, I urge you to watch "Whose Streets" that is now airing on PBS. There are very different perspectives on the events surrounding Ferguson - and addresses the issue of young black men falling to the hands of trigger-happy police in St. Louis.
The fight continues for justice. Whose streets?
I was there. I was a protestor. I can tell you, dear reader, that his reality and perception is different than mine. Johnson sounds very much like our current president after the events in Charlottesville. That there are good and bad on both sides. Johnson doesn't delve much into the specifics of why Ferguson was a powder keg. While he says he is just a flawed black man, he stands behind his badge - and that badge & the people behind it are the reason we took the streets in the first place. I look forward to seeing books by people from the protests. Memories that more clearly aligned with my own, and the nightmares that still plague me today.
If you are so inclined, I urge you to watch "Whose Streets" that is now airing on PBS. There are very different perspectives on the events surrounding Ferguson - and addresses the issue of young black men falling to the hands of trigger-happy police in St. Louis.
The fight continues for justice. Whose streets?
February 6, 2019
A memoir of the 13 days in Ferguson. The ghostwriter wrote short, choppy sentences, full of too much emotion. The police captain walked with the protesters but didn’t seem to have any answers for them or the police officers and made them both angry. No discussion about the future and how to prevent this from happening again. He was angry that the video was released- I hate the lack of transparency. A quick read, but frustrating for it’s lack of answers. Disclaimer- my husband LOVED this book because the guy talked about praying every day and needing his faith.
November 5, 2018
Besides my general interest in a topic like this, I have particular interests. First, I live in and grew up in St Louis County, 20 miles more or less from Ferguson. The events here were a little bit personal. Second, I hold elective office in my municipality in south St Louis County, and have had for a few years. I wanted to learn from Capt. johnson: what happened, why did it happen, how did he (and others) manage the crisis, and what are some of Capt. Johnson's perspectives that I don't have (of which I know there are many)? Instead of just reading the book in a detached way, I was trying to think along with Capt. Johnson. If i had some of these responsibilities, how would I respond? What choices would I have to make, and what might the repercussions be? How would our own police department react? If I were a Ferguson councilman, what might I have done to make things better?
i appreciated the book, but there were a few aspects i wasn't crazy about. First, the book reads sort of like Johnson's personal diary. We get a lot of his ride on the emotional roller coaster. At times I would have like to read less about how he was down, then up, then down, then up again, and more about what he actually did and the decisions he made. Second, I kept wondering how he was exercising his command duties when he spent so much time walking up and down West Florissant? He didn't give as much as i would have liked on the coordination of the various units under his command.
(PS- For those who do not live in the area, the street name is pronounced with the accent on the first syllable: FLOOR-ih-sent. Non-locals tend to want to pronounce the name like a fluorescent light. There's also a nearby municipality called Florissant.)
Putting these criticisms aside, I learned a few key things. For one, I think Johnson was absolutely right to not engage the people who were burning down some of the businesses early on with overwhelming force. He could have had a Watts situation on his hands, which would have made a bad situation much worse. I didn't understand the decision at the time, but a major police or National Guard clash with the mob resulting in significant casualties would have scarred the area for decades. At that time, property damage was not worth taking lives.
I appreciate the empathy Capt Johnson has for the community. All police departments and, for that matter, all government bodies need to deal with the public with professionalism, consideration, and respect. The rules are only the rules because we make them so. We need to adjust when the rules become part of the problem. It's difficult because organizations tend to become insular. Those who serve the public must always strive to do just that. It's too easy to forget who you are supposed to serve. Ron Johnson doesn't forget. He is a man I would be proud to know.
i appreciated the book, but there were a few aspects i wasn't crazy about. First, the book reads sort of like Johnson's personal diary. We get a lot of his ride on the emotional roller coaster. At times I would have like to read less about how he was down, then up, then down, then up again, and more about what he actually did and the decisions he made. Second, I kept wondering how he was exercising his command duties when he spent so much time walking up and down West Florissant? He didn't give as much as i would have liked on the coordination of the various units under his command.
(PS- For those who do not live in the area, the street name is pronounced with the accent on the first syllable: FLOOR-ih-sent. Non-locals tend to want to pronounce the name like a fluorescent light. There's also a nearby municipality called Florissant.)
Putting these criticisms aside, I learned a few key things. For one, I think Johnson was absolutely right to not engage the people who were burning down some of the businesses early on with overwhelming force. He could have had a Watts situation on his hands, which would have made a bad situation much worse. I didn't understand the decision at the time, but a major police or National Guard clash with the mob resulting in significant casualties would have scarred the area for decades. At that time, property damage was not worth taking lives.
I appreciate the empathy Capt Johnson has for the community. All police departments and, for that matter, all government bodies need to deal with the public with professionalism, consideration, and respect. The rules are only the rules because we make them so. We need to adjust when the rules become part of the problem. It's difficult because organizations tend to become insular. Those who serve the public must always strive to do just that. It's too easy to forget who you are supposed to serve. Ron Johnson doesn't forget. He is a man I would be proud to know.
August 21, 2021
This was a really good book about Captain Johnson's experience in Ferguson. I grew up in Missouri closer to Kansas City, so when Michael was murdered and the protests started, it caught my attention quickly even though I live on the West Coast now. I was devastated by what happened to Michael and infuriated by the uneducated, racist comments spewing out everywhere. It didn't help that a lot of the coverage focused on the rioting at night by outside agitators...it just helped a lot of people see what they wanted and/or expected to see and reinforced racist stereotyping.
So it's nice getting Captain Johnson's perspective and thought process. I wish more law enforcement officers had that insight, courage, and compassion to try to make those connections with the communities they are supposed to serve and protect. He was truly caught in the middle as a black man who is also a law enforcement official.
That being said I didn't get as much insight into how the community was feeling and reacting as I anticipated I would. There was a LOT about his faith, which I understand is central to his life and helped him deal with what was happening. As someone who doesn't have that as a central part of my life, it felt like it took up a lot of the book and kind of took away from the story to some degree for me because I wasn't expecting it to be such a pervasive part of every section of the book. I wonder if he ever had conversations with other black officers in Ferguson during that time about how they were feeling about things, how they were dealing with the situations as they happened and probably the myriad of emotions they were feeling. He just never really seemed to do that even as he was talking to all the community members on his walks. I know he was in charge so maybe he wasn't supposed to do that with LEOs, but I think that was maybe a missed opportunity on his part to engage them...he did a lot of things he wasn't supposed to do to try to make a difference in how the LEOs interacted with the community.
It's a quick read that I feel people should take the time to read...there are a lot of examples and lessons on changes that could improve relationships between communities and law enforcement...listening is an excellent first step.
So it's nice getting Captain Johnson's perspective and thought process. I wish more law enforcement officers had that insight, courage, and compassion to try to make those connections with the communities they are supposed to serve and protect. He was truly caught in the middle as a black man who is also a law enforcement official.
That being said I didn't get as much insight into how the community was feeling and reacting as I anticipated I would. There was a LOT about his faith, which I understand is central to his life and helped him deal with what was happening. As someone who doesn't have that as a central part of my life, it felt like it took up a lot of the book and kind of took away from the story to some degree for me because I wasn't expecting it to be such a pervasive part of every section of the book. I wonder if he ever had conversations with other black officers in Ferguson during that time about how they were feeling about things, how they were dealing with the situations as they happened and probably the myriad of emotions they were feeling. He just never really seemed to do that even as he was talking to all the community members on his walks. I know he was in charge so maybe he wasn't supposed to do that with LEOs, but I think that was maybe a missed opportunity on his part to engage them...he did a lot of things he wasn't supposed to do to try to make a difference in how the LEOs interacted with the community.
It's a quick read that I feel people should take the time to read...there are a lot of examples and lessons on changes that could improve relationships between communities and law enforcement...listening is an excellent first step.
September 3, 2018
Captain Ronald Johnson, of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, was unexpectedly put in charge of restoring peace during the unrest in Ferguson, after the death of Michael Brown. He tells his story woven within the daily events of those tense 13 days. He mingles his faith and times of doubt, in a way that keeps you riveted and gives you insight to the disconnect between law enforcement and those they are called to serve and protect.
Captain Johnson's story flashes between the past of his childhood and the present tension, confusion and frustration during the civil unrest in Ferguson. His own experiences of racism and bias directed toward him as a child, his upbringing and his faith, all have an influence over the decisions he makes in Ferguson and how he responds to the rising action of the events of those initial 13 days.
I recommend this book. I found it very inspiring and the first hand account credible. Its a fairly easy read, divided into chapters of each day's events. The Captain chronicles how his faith grew as he faced each day not knowing what would transpire, hoping and praying it wouldn't be another death.
He chose to be honest with media, citizens and colleagues, while intentionally working with the people in the Ferguson community, breaking down the barriers of us vs them, police vs the people, the people vs the police. His story gives first hand insight into the lives of people who have felt invisible, unheard, unseen and neglected by their communities and the country at large.
Again, I recommend this book.
Captain Johnson's story flashes between the past of his childhood and the present tension, confusion and frustration during the civil unrest in Ferguson. His own experiences of racism and bias directed toward him as a child, his upbringing and his faith, all have an influence over the decisions he makes in Ferguson and how he responds to the rising action of the events of those initial 13 days.
I recommend this book. I found it very inspiring and the first hand account credible. Its a fairly easy read, divided into chapters of each day's events. The Captain chronicles how his faith grew as he faced each day not knowing what would transpire, hoping and praying it wouldn't be another death.
He chose to be honest with media, citizens and colleagues, while intentionally working with the people in the Ferguson community, breaking down the barriers of us vs them, police vs the people, the people vs the police. His story gives first hand insight into the lives of people who have felt invisible, unheard, unseen and neglected by their communities and the country at large.
Again, I recommend this book.
October 16, 2018
This was an interesting story. I felt Captain Ron faith throughout his book and could read so much pressure that he had on his shoulder. The strength that he endure through the ordeal in 13 Days in Ferguson could have caused an average man to possibly give up. It was interesting to see that Captain Ron Johnson never lost his faith and walked away even though some of his fellow team member within law enforcement did not agree with some of the things her chose to do and that was was to not choose sides. He simply chose what was right and stuck with it. It may not have change everything, but it opened a few eyes to see that police in fact could interact with the community and not just choose to stand behind their badges and forget about the people. That to me showed some courage in my opinion. I truly pray and hope that this country try to not be bias and continue to judge each other and want to make a difference. As I've read somewhere is child is taught racism and to be bias. They do not know about these thing at birth. I take my hat off the Captain Ron Johnson for standing up and keeping his faith and not giving up on the community in which he hold dear to his heart.
July 4, 2019
This startlingly apolitical, extremely moving memoir of Captain Ronald Johnson, the surprise appointee to the post of head of security in Ferguson in August 2014. Instead of talking about tactical plans and political battles, as you might expect from the position, this account is an emotional response to the events built on love. The book was light on facts that support either “side” of the conflict, sometimes frustratingly so, but that was necessary to illustrate how we are all people who need to learn how to coexist. It was light on answers, but there aren't any good ones. Changing laws or adding new policies will not solve the problems until people also learn to respect each other.
Despite the religious bent and the broad expression of emotion, neither of which are my general preference, this was a fast, humanizing, and even at times humorous read. While I was skeptical of the secondary author, the account was true to form and the Author’s Thanks page put things in perspective. This is a very relevant story that may help people understand things better wherever you are aligned.
Despite the religious bent and the broad expression of emotion, neither of which are my general preference, this was a fast, humanizing, and even at times humorous read. While I was skeptical of the secondary author, the account was true to form and the Author’s Thanks page put things in perspective. This is a very relevant story that may help people understand things better wherever you are aligned.
November 2, 2020
While I was originally hopeful that this book would be powerful, shedding light on an inside perspective from a member of Ferguson’s black community and a police officer, it was shockingly scant on details. Every chapter felt like it was only this man praying, or being shook. I was surprised at how close minded he was in terms of protestor-police relations. The writing wasn’t great either- I found it to be too simplistic and undescriptive of important things. Each chapter was a formula, wake up, pray, go to work, pray, walk, pray, justify police brutality, pray. He barely talked about Michael Brown, whose death was the ultimate cataclysm from a community reeling from decades of injustice. After the halfway point, I read as quickly as possible to get it over with. A thoroughly disappointing read.
September 20, 2018
I received a free copy of this from Goodreads Giveaways.
I tend to not go in for memoirs because I'd rather read a biography or a non-fiction account from someone more objective; I feel that memoirs have a tendency to gloss over the bad bits. This memoir felt necessary, however--I think we owe it to the people who lived through Ferguson to read and try to understand their lived experiences as they remember and see them, because it's not an event that objectivity is going to make more clear or make better. So I was invested in reading Captain Johnson's words and sharing his experience through the 13 days of being in charge of the security response in Ferguson following Michael Brown's murder. A difficult but worthwhile read, to process and to feel.
I tend to not go in for memoirs because I'd rather read a biography or a non-fiction account from someone more objective; I feel that memoirs have a tendency to gloss over the bad bits. This memoir felt necessary, however--I think we owe it to the people who lived through Ferguson to read and try to understand their lived experiences as they remember and see them, because it's not an event that objectivity is going to make more clear or make better. So I was invested in reading Captain Johnson's words and sharing his experience through the 13 days of being in charge of the security response in Ferguson following Michael Brown's murder. A difficult but worthwhile read, to process and to feel.
February 17, 2019
This book tells a part of an important story. Only a part. Some may fault it for not telling the whole story; fair enough. But the part it tells is valuable and done well. One example:
What is the goal of every law enforcement officer?
It took me years, but I finally figured it out.
Every day needs to end the same way.
Nobody is big enough to win every battle. And some battles are not worth fighting. The situation dictates the outcome. But every outcome - every day - must end with the officer going home.
What is the goal of every man?
Each and every day, it's the same goal.
Three words.
To go home.
What is the goal of every law enforcement officer?
It took me years, but I finally figured it out.
Every day needs to end the same way.
Nobody is big enough to win every battle. And some battles are not worth fighting. The situation dictates the outcome. But every outcome - every day - must end with the officer going home.
What is the goal of every man?
Each and every day, it's the same goal.
Three words.
To go home.
September 9, 2020
I thought this book was such an excellent representation of what happens when you are caught between two different parts of your identity and have to decide how to walk on the right path as opposed to the path that make people happy. Captain Johnson tells an inspiring story of bravery, courage and portrays some of the most incredible qualities of servant leadership. He demonstrates that a leader isn't just there to speak to people but to walk with them and speak with them. As someone that is trying to determine my own leadership style at this point in my life, this made me realize how I can do that, as well as recognizing examples of injustice in my own life and how to combat that.
August 14, 2024
"13 Days of Ferguson" is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking book that offers a unique, inside perspective on the unrest in Ferguson, following the shooting of Michael Brown. What captivated me the most was Captain Johnson's struggle with his identity as both a police officer and a Black man. The book beautifully captures the complex emotions and conflicts he faced, being caught between two worlds that neither fully embraced him.
This book not only sheds light on the events in Ferguson but also delves deep into the human element, exploring the intricacies of identity and the quest for justice.
This book not only sheds light on the events in Ferguson but also delves deep into the human element, exploring the intricacies of identity and the quest for justice.
June 7, 2020
I don’t like this particular style of writing. One and two sentence paragraphs rather than well written prose. I find it choppy. Having said that I think this is an important book given what is going on in the US. I think the author although he describes himself from Ferguson gives the Ferguson police and politicians a huge pass for systemic racism which they don’t deserve. I also feel given how these continual police caused deaths keep happening it is hard to believe anything is getting better or changing which is very frustrating
June 20, 2021
A powerful and moving book written by State Trooper Captain Ronald Johnson, a humble man with a very unique perspective. It's worth taking the time to read his story, as Capt. Johnson understands both sides of the divide our nation has struggled with for far too long. If we are willing to not only read this book, but enter into his story, lean in, and LISTEN, setting aside any preconceived beliefs.....our hearts will not only be humbled, they will respond with compassion. Thank you for writing this book, and thank you for working to bring healing to our nation, Capt. Johnson.
September 16, 2021
If you are looking for all the nitty-gritty details of what happened in Ferguson this is not it. If you are not a fan of religion and faith this book is also not for you.
This memoir follows the amazing faith and emotional journey Captain Ronald Johnson experienced while trying to deescalate the unrest in Ferguson.
I enjoyed this much more than I expected too. It puts an amazing perspective into how human members of the law enforcement are.
This memoir follows the amazing faith and emotional journey Captain Ronald Johnson experienced while trying to deescalate the unrest in Ferguson.
I enjoyed this much more than I expected too. It puts an amazing perspective into how human members of the law enforcement are.
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