Katherine Irenae Johnson is born in Harlan, Iowa. This marks the beginning of her journey, shaped by the Midwestern landscape and early experiences.

Johnson spends her childhood in Iowa. Specific details about these early years are scarce, but growing up in this environment likely influenced her later writing, possibly contributing to themes of place, family, and the Midwest that can be found in some of her work.

Details on her specific high school are unavailable, but her secondary education would have provided her with a foundation for her intellectual pursuits. These formative years are likely where she first began to develop her interest in literature.

Information about Kij Johnson's college education is very limited or not publicly available. The specific college, major, or degree earned is not well documented in readily accessible sources.