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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.


Interview with SWIM, JIM! debut picture book author/illustrator, Kaz Windness

Kaz Windness is an author-illustrator who loves to make her readers laugh. When she’s not writing or illustrating books, Kaz teaches illustration at the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design and enjoys making deep-dish pizza. Kaz lives in Denver, Colorado, with her husband, two sons, and Boston terrier. Swim, . . .



POLL RESULTS: How book creators cope with other creators’ success

I recently posted a poll on Twitter, asking how creators cope with the occasional (or not so occasional) twinge of wistfulness or envy when hearing about a colleague’s success. I go through this sometimes as well, especially if I’m already feeling low or have been going through a rough time. . . .



Where to find me online these days

(Last updated April 7, 2023) I’ve been online since the early days of the Internet, before the term “social media” existed. I have also signed up for many online services, joined many online communities. Because of this, it can be confusing if you’re trying to look for me online. I’ll . . .



STEALING HOME by J. Torres and David Namisato (Kids Can Press)

Just finished STEALING HOME by J. Torres and David Naimsato, now available from Kids Can Press; I bought my copy from Mabel’s Fables. LOVED. Geared toward middle grade, this graphic novel focuses on Sandy Saito, a young baseball fan whose family is forced to move away from their home in . . .



BIG DREAMS, SMALL FISH by Paula Cohen (Levine Querido)

BIG DREAMS, SMALL FISH by Paula Cohen was Paula’s debut as a picture book author/illustrator. Sadly, she passed away just before the book launched but (as you can see from Paula’s video on Instagram) she was able to see her author copies. I ordered my copy from Mabel’s Fables. What . . .



Review of Paparazzo’s OLIVIA Content Creator Kit

I bought Paparazzo’s OLIVIA Content Creator Kit a while back and am so happy with it that I was compelled to create this short video; I made the purchase after someone (if you are this someone, please do remind me!) pointed me to an Instagram ad about Olivia. If you’re . . .