Hi, I’m Debbie Ridpath Ohi. Once upon a time, I was a computer programmer and systems analyst for a bank. Now, I write and illustrate children’s books for a living. Life is crazy and wonderful.
Why subscribe? What is Inkygirl about?
Inkygirl focuses on writing and illustrating for young people, with practical tips and behind-the-scenes peeks into the process. I’ve been writing and illustrating books for kids since 2010, and have worked with Simon & Schuster, Random House, HarperCollins, Little Brown, and other publishers. My illustrations have appeared in books by Judy Blume, Michael Ian Black (who is on Substack!), Linda Sue Park, and others.
I am also on the SCBWI Advisory Council (SCBWI = Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) as well as Illustrators Committee.
Selection of some of my most popular posts:
My Picture Book 101 series, in which I talk about the basics of writing and illustrating picture books for young readers.
How a rejection helped me get me my first children’s book contract (and advice I wish I could tell my younger self)
On illustrating Judy Blume’s covers, and what I learned
Playing with collage, investigating copyright issues when using print text in collage
My other Substack newsletter:
The Red Balloon - My personal essays and non-kidlit art.
If you enjoy my Substack newsletters, here are some ways to show your support:
Buy one of my children’s books. If you can’t afford to buy, then borrow one of them and if you like it, tell others about it.
Spread the word about my Substack posts not only on this platform, but other social media.
Thank you for being here!
