Debbie is the author and illustrator of Where Are My Books? and Sam & Eva (Simon & Schuster), and her illustrations have appeared in books written by Judy Blume, Michael Ian Black, Linda Sue Park, among others. A former computer programmer analyst, Debbie launched one of the first online communities for writers and was also a columnist and author for Writer’s Digest/F&W. Now she writes and illustrates for a living, and has helped create nearly 25 books for young people. Honors include New York Times Notable Children’s Book, Junior Library Guild Selection, Missouri Building Block Picture Book Award, Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award Finalist and CCBC Best Books.
In addition to The Highlights Foundation, Debbie has also given presentations and workshops at SCBWI national and regional conferences, CANSCAIP, CAPIC, the Canadian Children’s Book Centre, the University Of Toronto, and the Toronto Public Library, among other venues. Her recent book projects include Gurple & Preen: A Broken Crayon Cosmic Adventure (written by Linda Sue Park, illustrated by Debbie, published by Simon & Schuster BFYR) and the upcoming I’m Sorry (written by Michael Ian Black, illustrated by Debbie, also published by S&S BFYR).
You can find out more about Debbie and her work at DebbieOhi.com and her blog for children’s book writers/illustrators at Inkygirl.com.
“Debbie Ridpath Ohi and Heidi E.Y. Stemple were so encouraging, nurturing, informative, resourceful and entertaining! Their styles and personalities were a perfect blend.”
“Heidi [E.Y. Stemple] and Debbie [Ridpath Ohi] are simply the best. They know their stuff, are good at teaching it, and are just warm, lovely people.”
“Heidi [E.Y. Stemple] and Debbie [Ridpath Ohi] are amazing. They are inspiring and encouraging to each participant – from novice to experienced writer.”
