Lucas L. Johnson II: Author, 'Remembering Roots'

Few Tennesseans have had the cultural impact of Alex Haley, whose landmark 1976 book and subsequent television mini-series Roots: The Saga of an American Family captivated readers and viewers like few other works before or since. Even so, Roots was recently banned by a Knoxville school district (a decision that was subsequently reversed) despite being an official state book. In Revisiting Roots: How an American Classic Transformed the World, writer and former Associated Press reporter Lucas L. Johnson II marks the 50th anniversary of Haley's breakthrough epic with essays and interviews — including Levar Burton, who was not initally cast in the lead role — illuminating the enduring legacy of this landmark work. Guest: Lucas L. Johnson II, author, Revisiting Roots: How an American Classic Transformed the World Host: Demetria Kalodimos Producer: Steve Haruch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices