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Debbie’s Blog

Welcome to my new blog, which now includes content from many of the blogs I’ve created over the years. You can now also access content via category from this one page instead of having to search for my individual blogs, which were scattered over various platforms and websites.


Comic: New Year’s Resolutions (or not)

I have actually broken my resolution not to make resolutions and am going to make a resolution! See my blog post on KidLitArtists.com: New Year’s Resolutions and Realistic Goal-Setting For Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Happy New Year’s, everyone!



In memory of Debbie Alvarez, The Styling Librarian

(Edited July 17, 2017: I have removed the links to her blog since it looks as if someone else has bought the domain and is using it for advertising. 🙁 ) Deeply saddened to hear that teacher/librarian Debbie Alvarez has died. Though we never had the chance to hang out in person, . . .





Book-combo holiday gift idea: THE TRUTH ABOUT TWINKIE PIE by Kat Yeh

Rereading my friend Kat Yeh‘s debut middle grade book THE TRUTH ABOUT TWINKIE PIE makes me think how great a holiday gift this book would be. Twinkie Pie is my favorite kind of book: a wonderful voice, characters I care about and an unexpected but thoroughly satisfying ending. See my interview with Kat on . . .



Writing Challenges Should Inspire Motivation, Not Guilt

Did you attempt NaNoWriMo this year and have to bow out because you simply didn’t have enough time? Are you looking for a year-round writing challenge with some flexibility?  Try my 250, 500 or 1000 words a day challenge.



Creativity tip: Take the time to look at the world a different way

A creative tip for writers and illustrators: Every so often, take the time to look at things around you differently than you normally would. Sounds like a glib cliché, I know, but I encourage you to really give it a shot. When I’m walking through a familiar area or doing something . . .



Graphic novel love: SUNNY SIDE UP by Jennifer and Matthew Holm

Not only is SUNNY SIDE UP a wonderful graphic novel for middle grade, but you can also find out tons of behind-the-scenes info about how it was made in THE YARN. I met Jenni Holm at NerdCampMI earlier this year and found her super-friendly and down-to-earth.  Found out more about Jenni . . .