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.
Last week, I had two separate conversations with fellow kidlit friends during which they commented how I managed to stay so productive during the pandemic. This took me by surprise, since in my own head I’ve been feeling like most of the past two years have been a fog that . . .
(Updated from an older post. Also be sure to check out my FAQ for more useful advice!) So many people think that short = easy, especially when it comes to picture books. And while yes, it’s easy to crank out a picture book manuscript in terms of wordcount, writing a . . .
I’ve had a love-hate relationship with squirrels for over 30 years. This is an introduction to my Beware The Squirrel blog. About Debbie (Bio kindly provided by my friend Bruce Macintosh – It remains one of my favourite bios ever, and I hope to use it in a book someday.) . . .
Also see my VR Art Page for info about why and how I’m using VR art to help me plan my picture book illustrations. Since my husband gave me an Oculus Quest 2 headset for Christmas in 2021, I’ve been embracing the world of virtual reality. I first became interested . . .
Trying to think of a good holiday gift for a writer, illustrator or creative educator? Consider giving them TIME. Download/print out this certificate, fill out the recipient’s name, and choose one or more of the options. Suggestions for how you can help give your friend more time: Depending on your . . .
Quick peek at the utterly gorgeous, moving and uplifting new picture book, SURVIVOR TREE, written by Marcie Colleen and illustrated by Aaron Becker. Also see Debbie’s Reading Journal as well as Debbie’s Bookstagram.
My goal every day, no matter how crazybusy things get: push myself to do SOMETHING, even a very small something, to work on improving my craft (art or writing) longterm. Keeping track of these tiny steps in my bullet journal helps ground me during chaostimes. More about bullet journals later . . .
Thanks to 13-year-old Abigail The STORY Teller, who was my 45,000th follower on Twitter! When I asked Abigail which of my books she would like me to send to her as a thank you gift, I was honoured when she chose my own solo picture books Sam & Eva and . . .
*****[Exciting update November 9, 2021, 3:30 pm ET: MY BOX OF CONTRIBUTOR COPIES JUST ARRIVED!!!!.] According to my social media followers, either librarians, squirrels, aliens or Ame Dyckman stole my books! 😀 Even though I’M SORRY launched over two months ago (Sept.7th), I have yet to receive my box of . . .