In a recent episode of the “Julian Gino Podcast,” hosts Julia and Gino Barbaro welcomed Jasmine Mullen, a writer and singer from Nashville, to discuss her latest book, “Ben Washington is the Newbie on the Block.” This heartfelt conversation explored themes of friendship, faith, and the universal experience of feeling like an outsider.
The Genesis of “Ben Washington”: A Love Letter to Siblinghood
Jasmine revealed that the story of Ben Washington wasn’t meticulously planned, but rather “caught” during a tour. Driven by her deep affection for her two younger brothers, she began writing a story that felt like a “love letter” to them.
- Inspiration from Family:
- Ben’s character is a blend of her brothers’ personalities, with a touch of her own.
- The book’s supporting characters draw inspiration from friends who have become like family.
A Universal Message of Belonging
At the heart of “Ben Washington” is a powerful message of belonging and connection. Jasmine hopes the book will spark conversations and foster deeper connections between people.
- Finding Your People:
- The book emphasizes that everyone has a place, even when they feel like they don’t belong.
- It demonstrates that friendships can be forged through effort and vulnerability.
- The Power of Connection:
- Jasmine hopes the book will cause deep connection between people, something that is needed in todays society.
The Significance of Representation
Jasmine discussed the importance of representation in children’s literature, particularly for African-American children.
- Mirror and Window Stories:
- She highlighted the concept of “mirror stories” (where readers see themselves) and “window stories” (where readers see others).
- She emphasized the need for more stories where black children are the protagonists, allowing both black and white children to see and understand their experiences.
- Building Empathy:
- Jasmine believes that stories can bridge divides and build empathy by showcasing our shared humanity.
- She has heard stories of black children being able to relate to Ben, and also white children wanting to be his friend.
The Universal Experience of Being “The Newbie”
Despite being written with the African-American community in mind, “Ben Washington” resonates with readers of all backgrounds.
- Shared Humanity:
- Gino Barbaro shared his personal connection to the story, relating to Ben’s experience of being the new kid in town.
- He noted that he didn’t see Ben’s color, but rather identified with his struggles and emotions.
- The book shows that we have more in common than we have differences.
- Relatable Themes:
- The book explores universal themes of fear, insecurity, and the desire for acceptance, which resonate with readers of all ages.
Faith as a Guiding Force
Jasmine’s faith plays a central role in her life and work.
- Storytelling as a Divine Tradition:
- She views storytelling as a rich tradition of God, using it as a means to understand and connect with the divine.
- Her faith is the lense that she sees the world through.
- Living in Community:
- She strives to live in community, guided by the principles of love and friendship found in scripture.
- A Heritage of Faith:
- She credits her family, particularly her grandmothers, for instilling in her a deep and abiding faith.
Jasmine Mullen’s “Ben Washington is the Newbie on the Block” is more than just a children’s book; it’s a story that speaks to the universal human experience, reminding us of the power of connection, empathy, and the importance of finding our place in the world.
