A BIT About Debbie & her inspiration
An avid reader, I wrote my first story when I was just six years old. I wrote every day for months with my tools of the trade, a #2 pencil and crayons! I still have this story today, although it is a bit dog-eared and tucked away in a box alongside my original Bugs Bunny pull-toy and Barbie. Throughout my life I have always written…from poetry and journals, to articles and stories.
The idea for my environmentally-focused children’s series, The Adventures of Camellia N., came to life first in my dreams. I believe authentic stories come from within. My father, an early pioneer in sustainability; recycled, reused and taught me to take care of and protect our wildlife. I was inspired by Dr. Jane Goodall and Dr. Sylvia Earle while in college. Their life journeys, coupled with an innate curiosity and appreciation for our environment has given me hope and served as an inspiration for my series.
I have a Master's degree from Harvard University and was fortunate to study under Dr. Gerry Lesser, one of the innovators and co-creators of Sesame Street. I am a Visiting Professor at Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA (and have been for 18 years) and the recipient of the global Charles H. Sandage Excellence in Teaching Award. My past includes spearheading the award-winning For Kids Sake Campaign, having my own monthly columns in both KidScreen and Sunshine Family Magazine, founding my own marketing agency, and working with a myriad of companies and TV studios throughout the planet. In my tenure, I also directed the global marketing efforts for the crown jewels of Warner Bros... Looney Tunes, Baby Looney Tunes, Pinky & the Brain, among other classic animated properties.
The Adventures of Camellia N. are rich, educational stories filled with “messaging with meaning.” Education begins at birth and teaching children to care comes naturally to them. Teaching them at a young age to take care of and protect our environment will change our world completely.
I do believe Camellia is a catalyst for change and my hope is that she will help educate children to make a dent in our world. I also hope that she will become a part of your life… as she has mine.
ABOUT DANY
Camellia N. and her friends are brought to life by the very talented, Daniela Frongia, illustrator and visual development artist. Inspired by the Disney classics and Manga, Dany was already showing a passion and talent for drawing by the early age of four.
She has a degree from the Art School in Italy and a certificate in graphic design. Dany, who has been inspired by Camellia N., is always on an adventure. She lives throughout Europe where she runs her own art studio.