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Frederick Joseph—poet, philanthropist, and author of The Black Friend: On Being a Better White Person—embarks on his inaugural foray into fiction with the young adult novel This Thing of Ours. The story follows Ossie Brown, a basketball player who returns to Braxton Academy for his senior year after a career-ending injury. Feeling isolated from his friends and recently dumped by his girlfriend, Ossie, a Black youth from south Yonkers, struggles with his identity. In search of a new passion, he enrolls in a creative writing program led by an inspiring Black educator, Ms. Hunt. However, when Ms. Hunt is dismissed amidst accusations of promoting a “woke agenda,” Ossie’s newly formed friendships and creative pursuits are thrown into turmoil. Faced with the choice of either fighting back or remaining passive, Ossie must navigate his tumultuous situation. Joseph recently discussed themes of mortality and personal background as they relate to his debut fiction.
Why did you choose for Ossie to take up writing after basketball was no longer an option?
I was inspired by the overwhelming influence of athletes in the lives of young men and boys, who often idolize them and aspire to similar careers. When that dream is suddenly out of reach, how do they find new paths? This theme involves exploring passions outside of sports and recognizing alternative skills that lead to success and expression.
Our society tends to impose limitations on the value of Black youth, often viewing them solely through the lens of physical ability, entertainment, or athleticism. In the narrative, I wanted Ms. Hunt to actively challenge these notions. Ossie’s grandmother echoes this sentiment, insisting, “My baby’s more than just that damn ball and hoop!”
What message were you aiming to convey through Grandma Alice’s wisdom and her connection with Ossie?
I haven’t often shared this, but one of the last profound messages from my grandmother was about embracing life fully: “This thing of ours is about living.” She encouraged me to pursue a vibrant and meaningful life. Grandma Alice mirrors that influence; she too was a writer who fostered my love for literature and a rich life experience.
Ossie’s journey reveals the unforeseen effects of good intentions. What motivated you to include this facet of activism?
Everyone is striving to do their best, especially during today’s complex landscape of social media and identity exploration. It’s essential to portray the potential for missteps and the opportunity for redemption. Forgiveness is often overlooked, yet it requires significant character. My favorite character, Naima, exemplifies this courage as she grapples with understanding Ossie’s intentions, emphasizing the essence of forgiveness and personal growth.
Was the inclusion of a romantic element intentional from the beginning?
Absolutely. With my personal health challenges, including multiple sclerosis and heart disease, I often grapple with the concept of mortality. This reality influences my storytelling; I wanted to infuse elements of activism, romance, and the complexities of my upbringing to inspire hope for future generations.
Was there anything about writing This Thing of Ours that was surprising or particularly challenging compared to your previous work?
This project is special to me; I’ve never connected with a story as deeply. Crafting a world based on my own experiences compels me to authentically reflect on my past while also highlighting moments of joy. For instance, while Ossie faces challenges in his impoverished neighborhood—much like my own childhood—there exists an abundance of love and happiness amidst those struggles. Capturing the duality of hardship and joy was essential.
Your philanthropic endeavors with youth have been significant. How did these experiences shape the portrayal of the teenage characters?
Working closely with marginalized youth, listening to their stories, and providing resources for their growth informs how I represent these characters. I strive to reflect their current interests, styles, and dialogues accurately. Ultimately, I believe that young people desire visibility and understanding, and it’s crucial for me to communicate that I’m here to listen and support them.
How did you address the theme of book banning in This Thing of Ours?
The book was written years ago, hoping that today’s environment wouldn’t be so fraught with censorship issues. It pains me that my first book, The Black Friend: On Being a Better White Person, has faced substantial challenges. I wrote with the intention of highlighting the systematic erasure of diverse narratives and the profound importance of literature in shaping identity. I reference specific banned books to express the importance of literature and what it means to young readers. For me, stories like those of James Baldwin and Toni Morrison were transformative. Without those books, my identity and worldview would have been drastically different.
What can young people do to fight against book banning?
It is crucial for young people to recognize their power and the resources available to them. I aimed to illustrate this dynamic in This Thing of Ours. Young individuals should feel empowered not just through words but through actions that demonstrate their capability for change. Furthermore, it is important to show that making mistakes is part of the process of progress, as I have learned in my own journey.
What upcoming projects are you working on?
I am set to release a YA novel titled Everything’s Not Lost through Viking, focusing on two teenage girls coping with bipolar disorder. I also have another YA project in the pipeline. For now, I’m excited to concentrate on young adult literature, as it fosters the most engaging dialogue with my audience. Novels provide an avenue for contemplation and connection on significant issues.
This Thing of Ours by Frederick Joseph. Candlewick, $18.99 May 6 ISBN 978-1-5362-3346-9
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