Some expressions need no explanation when you grow up in The Bahamas. A greeting, a sideways glance, or a little gapseed can tell a whole story. Bahamian author Howard R. Johnson draws on that shared understanding in This Who We Is: A Funny, Honest, and Unfiltered Guide to Bahamian Culture.

Raised in Eleuthera, Johnson brings an insider’s affection and a keen eye for everyday life to his writing. He draws inspiration from the island’s close-knit communities, distinctive expressions, and oral storytelling traditions. His work gives readers plenty to laugh about while exploring what connects Bahamians across islands and generations.

This Who We Is: Bahamian Culture Beyond the Postcards

In This Who We Is, Johnson looks beyond the familiar images of beaches and turquoise water to explore the people, conversations, and customs that give The Bahamas its character.

Through colorful stories, witty observations, and illustrations, he explores greetings, food, family, church, politics, and Junkanoo. Along the way, he considers the unwritten social rules Bahamians grow up knowing—and visitors sometimes learn through experience.

Part storytelling collection, part cultural guide, and part giant inside joke, the book pairs humor with thoughtful reflections on identity and belonging. Gapseed means gossip, but the conversations reveal much more: community ties, shared expectations, and the lively ways people keep up with one another.

For Bahamian readers, these pages offer familiar moments and plenty of recognition. For readers with Bahamian roots, they offer a connection to home. Meanwhile, anyone curious about island life can discover the culture behind the expressions.

From Eleuthera Roots to Political Commentary

Beyond his book, Howard R. Johnson is a political analyst, entrepreneur, and nonprofit leader. He serves as a Senior Political Analyst with Eyewitness News Bahamas, appearing on its evening television program, Beyond the Headlines.

His professional experience spans financial services, business leadership and operations, human resources, and nonprofit leadership. He also holds a Master of Public Administration with a focus on Human Resources Management.

Keeping Bahamian Voices Close to Home

Now based in Tampa, Florida, Johnson maintains strong ties to The Bahamas. Through his writing, he celebrates the voices, memories, humor, and resilience that shape Bahamian life.

This Who We Is invites readers to laugh at familiar situations, look a little closer at everyday traditions, and appreciate the stories Bahamians carry wherever they go. Now available in eBook and paperback on Amazon.