Debbi Michiko Florence

Biografía

Debbi Michiko Florence, a third-generation Japanese American, is the acclaimed author of more than 25 books for children and tweens. Her books have received starred reviews, JLG Selections, and inclusion on lists such as Amazon Best Books and the Chicago Public Library Best of the Best. Her middle-grade novels include [*Just Be Cool, Jenna Sakai*](https://debbimichikoflorence.com/books/middle-grade-books/#just-be-cool) and the series *Last Chance Academy.* Book 1, [*A Study in Secrets*](https://debbimichikoflorence.com/books/middle-grade-books/#last-chance-academy) is a finalist for the 2026 Best Juvenile Edgar Award.* She is also the author of the award-winning [*Jasmine Toguchi*](https://debbimichikoflorence.com/books/jasmine-toguchi/) chapter book series, which has sold more than 200,000 copies, and picture books, including [*Monster Maker: The Strange Creatures of Mark Nagata*](https://debbimichikoflorence.com/books/picture-books/#monster-maker). A native Californian, Debbi now lives in Connecticut where she writes in her studio, The Word Nest. Biography excerpt from author’s official website: &lt;<https://debbimichikoflorence.com/about/>&gt;