Debbie Ann Taylor
Storyteller: Debbie Ann Taylor
Debbie Ann Taylor is an author of picture books, including Sweet Music in Harlem (Lee and Low), Over in Motown (Fifth Avenue Press), and nine books for an educational series. Her short stories for children appear in magazines including Cricket, Spider, New Moon, and Pockets. Taylor’s interest in writing contemporary and historical fiction was sparked before she mastered cursive writing. Visits to museums and botanical gardens provide a rich source of material for her contemporary and historical fiction. A native of Columbus, OH, she relocated to Ann Arbor 30 years ago and worked for decades to increase diversity in STEM fields.
On writing for children:
“I write for children because I know the power of language and the meaningful effect that books have. I write books to enrich their lives, broaden their knowledge, and instill that love of language. I am also interested in creating books that will give voice to characters often absent from children’s literature, especially women in STEM and working-class characters. Such books will promote resilience and fortitude but will also elicit wonder and joy. Children need books that satisfy and fortify them and that will challenge and empower them.”
What was the most valuable or memorable experience of AMPLIFY for you?:
It was a joy interacting with the other book creators and recognizing “like-hearted” individuals. I was also introduced to the National Association of Black Storytellers.
Follow Debbie Ann Taylor:
“Books should help readers recognize the humanity of others while appreciating their own value and power.”
