Rising Stars: Meet Natalie Johnson of National

Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Johnson.

Hi Natalie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was exploring book reviews for Sister Souljah’s new book “Love After Midnight” on Google and a tiktok video popped up and I clicked on it, it was various tiktok creators talking about the book. So, that took my down the rabbit whole of the book influencer community. I was already making videos for makeup tutorials on IG as Film and TV makeup artist, so I was never camera shy. I was excited that I found my community of readers, individuals who loved books and loved talking about them.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Has it been a “smooth” road is a loaded question. Based on the many changes made by social media companies with guidelines it has been interesting to say the least. Curating your algorithm and making content that will meet the qualifications for the algorithm and viewers can be somewhat difficult. Because you are constantly trying to find your formula that will work for your social media outlets.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a Black Book Influencer and my primary focus is to Curate list of books that I find interesting created by Black Authors, to read them and tell the world about this small community (black book community) in this large space. I am known for my honest reviews, hosting book event activities I will be co-hosting the R & B Kickback for Black Romance Book Festival 2026. One of the things that I am most proud of is being a vessel for small back imprints and independent black authors in this space. What sets me apart from everyone else is that I have an very comical and honest personality.

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
You can find me on tiktok @natalieok.girl

And on instagram @natalieok.girlreads

In addition I will be launching my YouTube channel this month my handle for that is @natalieokay.girlreads

I also will be launching an initiative to encourage more black men and women to read books later this year.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natalieok.girlreads?igsh=MW14M3B5cW80aW53bg==
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@natalieokay.girlreads?si=mi3nXqsaM71Ld3LS
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@natalieokay.girl?_r=1&_t=ZT-96HQlyUmTnS