Debbi Michiko Florence

Biography

Debbi Michiko Florence, a third generation Japanese American, is a former classroom teacher and zoo educator. Her debut chapter book series is Jasmine Toguchi (Farrar Straus Giroux/2017 and 2018). Jasmine Toguchi Mochi Queen was a Bank Street 2018 Best Children’s Books of the Year, on the 2018 Amelia Bloomer List, and the 2018 CBCC Choices List (Best of the Year). Mochi Queen, Jasmine Toguchi Drummer Girl, and Jasmine Toguchi Flamingo Keeper were Junior Library Guild selections. Debbi is also the author of the early chapter book series, Dorothy and Toto (Picture Window Books/2016). A native Californian, Debbi now lives in Connecticut with her husband, rescue dog, bunny, and two ducks. She loves to travel with her daughter and husband.