Debra I. Thomas writes children’s picture books filled with imagination, warmth, and heart. Her stories aim to inspire joy, curiosity, and a sense of adventure in young readers. With a love for children and pets, she continues to create uplifting tales that invite families to share the magic of storytelling together.
Author Interview
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a children’s author who creates stories that inspire kindness, imagination, adventure, and emotional connection in young readers. Writing has always been a dream of mine. After raising my four children, I now have the time to fully embrace my passion for storytelling. What began as a creative outlet has grown into a meaningful journey of sharing heartfelt messages through stories that encourage confidence, compassion, and courage. To date, I have written two children’s books, I Made It Home and Bazil Goes to School, and I look forward to continuing to create stories that touch young hearts and spark imagination. My books are written in collaboration with children, blending their ideas and perspectives with my own to create stories for children, by children.
What does being a successful author look like to you?
To me, being a successful author means sharing the magic of my stories with readers and seeing them come to life. For a children’s book author, there is nothing more rewarding than reading my books to a group of children, watching them engage with the story, and hearing their laughter, questions, and excitement. Receiving thank-you cards from a classroom of children is one of the most meaningful experiences I can have as an author. It is a true measure of success.
Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
I’m especially grateful to Franklin’s Toy Store for being the very first to support placing
I Made It Home in their store.
Ironically, it was the one store I had hoped for most. I’ve shopped there for years and always loved their cozy book corner and welcoming atmosphere.
To now see my book sitting on their shelves is truly a full-circle moment.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
No, I would not change anything; my latest book is exactly the way I want it to be, simple but heartfelt and meaningful.
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now? Do you have any pets?
I was raised in Lanham, Maryland, and moved to Edgewater, Maryland, where I lived for 28 years, then to Annapolis, Maryland, where I have been for 13 years. I have four wonderful daughters and eight energetic grandchildren. I have a Golden Retriever named Callie and a cat named Frosty.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My next project is a women’s fiction novel inspired by real-life drama, exploring betrayal, heartbreak, and resilience. I’m excited to dive into the emotional journey of a woman navigating personal tragedy and rebuilding her life. I’m also continuing to write children’s books because I love being creative and inspiring young readers, sharing stories that spark imagination and wonder.
What is the name of your latest book, and what inspired it?
“I Made It Home” was inspired by my granddaughter’s first day of school. She had to be picked up by her aunt, and when they arrived home, her aunt recorded a video to send to her mom. In the video, my granddaughter proudly said, “Hi Mom, it’s my first day of school… and I made it hoooome!” That simple, heartfelt moment became the seed for this story. My books are stories for children, inspired by children.
What authors or books have influenced you?
David Blaze, who wrote “My Fox Ate My Homework.”
I read his book, “How to Write a Children’s Book,” and it was an amazing story of how he accomplished his passion for writing children’s books. He was later asked by Disney to “write the junior novelization (writing a children’s book based on the movie) for Frozen 2.”
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on my third book, and Bazil is back! This will be the second story featuring everyone’s favorite bearded dragon from Bazil Goes to School. I wonder what mischief Bazil will get into in this book. I’m also excited about a new character entering my story world! A lovable Great Dane named Darwin, whose life adventures will bring heart, humor, and meaningful moments for young readers.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
One of the best things new authors can do is read children’s books regularly. Reading within the genre helps build your writing skills and teaches you about rhythm, pacing, and emotional connection. Keep writing, even when it feels challenging. Growth comes with practice, patience, and persistence. I find it most important to write from the heart. When your stories are genuine, children feel it. While the journey takes time and dedication, the rewards are overwhelming. There is nothing quite like seeing a child connect with your story, smile at your characters, or find comfort in your words. Those moments make every late night and revision worthwhile. And there are a lot of them!
Connect with the Debra online at
Website: https://debraithomasbooks.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@
I Made It Home is available for purchase from major retailers including:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/