The Reader’s Heart | Guest: Debbi Michiko Florence

In this episode Debbi Michiko Florence chats with Jennifer about her love for children's literature and the power of books to shape our hearts. She shares her own experiences as a reader, from her childhood memories of her parents reading to her and weekly trips to the library, to her rediscovery of reading for pleasure after college. Debbi emphasizes the importance of authentic representation in children's literature and the impact her books have on young readers, particularly those who see themselves reflected in her characters. She also discusses her upcoming middle grade series, Last Chance Academy, and the joy of writing sweet romances for tween and early teen readers.

Show notes, including a discount code for purchasing the books mentioned in this episode from Bookelicious, can be found here. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Fan Appreciation

01:08 Debbi's Reader's Heart 

07:06 Common themes in The Reader's Heart

10:01 Books as safe spaces

12:21 Creating authentic characters

16:31 Debbi's journey as a writer

20:15 The powerful first crush

22: 12 Aliza Werner shout out

28:35 Introducing Last Chance Academy 

34:14 Importance of stories that explore layered identities

36:01 Wrap up and conclusions