Hi, I’m Debbie!

I grew up in a multicultural family in Austin, Texas, where I enjoyed the places that brought people together—local parks, rec centers, and libraries that buzzed with life. As a girl, I loved connecting with international pen pals and discovering the magic of stories from distant places. Today, I enjoy writing children’s books that combine heart and humor. My favorite stories are about everyday people who make a difference.

Many of my stories reflect the warmth of my Mexican heritage and have been recognized with several awards. I received the Austin SCBWI Scholarship for Creators of Diverse Worlds in 2018 and 2020, and I was a finalist for the 2018 We Need Diverse Books (WNDB) Mentorship Contest. I have had the honor of presenting at the Texas Book Festival and SCBWI conferences.

Outside of writing, I hold a B.A. in French and an M.A. in Middle Eastern Studies, which led to a decade of work in international programs, helping people from all over the world. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from NYU and now find fulfillment in helping others as a counselor. Whether I’m writing, mentoring, or spending time with my family, I’m always inspired by the power of stories to bring people together.

I am represented by James McGowan of BookEnds Literary Agency.

Joni Lorraine Photography