Debbi Michiko Florence Books in Order

Where to Start with Debbi Michiko Florence

For readers diving into Debbi Michiko Florence's work, the best starting point depends on the reader's age and interests. Her books are broadly divided into early chapter books and middle-grade contemporary fiction. Here are the recommended starting paths:

• For early readers (ages 6-9): Start with Jasmine Toguchi, Mochi Queen (2017). This is her most famous and decorated chapter book series. It introduces young readers to Japanese-American culture, family dynamics, and a spunky, relatable heroine.
• For animal lovers (ages 6-9): Start with Truman the Dog (2019), the first book in the My Furry Foster Family series, which follows a young girl fostering various pets.
• For middle-grade readers (ages 8-12): Start with Keep It Together, Keiko Carter (2020), a story about navigating changing friendships and first crushes as middle school begins.
• For mystery fans (ages 8-12): Start with Last Chance Academy: A Study in Secrets (2025), an Edgar Award finalist following a boarding school treasure hunt.

Jasmine Toguchi Series Reading Order

The Jasmine Toguchi series consists of eight books following eight-year-old Jasmine Toguchi. The series is best read in publication order, which also matches chronological order, as Jasmine grows and experiences new adventures, including a trip to visit family in Japan in the later books.

1. Jasmine Toguchi, Mochi Queen (2017) – Jasmine wants to participate in her family's traditional New Year's mochi-making, even though she is deemed too young.
2. Jasmine Toguchi, Super Sleuth (2017) – Jasmine solves a mystery during her grandmother's visit for Girl's Day.
3. Jasmine Toguchi, Drummer Girl (2018) – Jasmine decides to learn taiko drumming for a school talent show.
4. Jasmine Toguchi, Flamingo Keeper (2018) – Jasmine gets a chance to look after a neighbor's pet flamingo.
5. Jasmine Toguchi, Brave Explorer (2022) – Jasmine goes on a camping trip and faces her fears.
6. Jasmine Toguchi, Peace-Maker (2023) – Jasmine acts as a mediator when conflict arises with her friends.
7. Jasmine Toguchi, Bridge Builder (2023) – Jasmine helps build connections with others during a family event.
8. Jasmine Toguchi, Great Gardener (2024) – Jasmine takes on a gardening project and learns about patience and growth.

My Furry Foster Family Series

The My Furry Foster Family series is ideal for animal lovers. Each book centers on eight-year-old Kaita Takano and a different animal her family fosters. While there is a loose chronology, the books can easily be read as standalones in any order. The publication order is:

1. Truman the Dog (2019)
2. Buttons the Kitten (2019)
3. Apple and Annie, the Hamster Duo (2019)
4. Betty the Bearded Dragon (2019)
5. Toby the Dog (2020)
6. Kingston the Great Dane (2020)
7. Murray the Ferret (2020)
8. Roo the Rabbit (2020)
9. Tiki the Cockatoo (2020)

Last Chance Academy Series

This is a newer middle-grade mystery series starring Megumi "Meg" Mizuno at the Leland Chase Academy boarding school. Because it features an overarching mystery plot, it should be read strictly in order:

1. Last Chance Academy: A Study in Secrets (2025)
2. Last Chance Academy: The Mastermind's Trap (2026)

Dorothy and Toto Series

A fun early-reader series set in the Land of Oz, featuring Dorothy and her dog Toto. These can be read in any order:

1. Dorothy and Toto the Disappearing Picnic (2016)
2. Dorothy and Toto: The Hunt for the Perfect Present (2016)
3. Dorothy and Toto: What's Your Name? (2016)
4. Dorothy and Toto: Little Dog Lost (2016)

Companion Middle-Grade Novels and Standalones

Debbi Michiko Florence has written several standalone middle-grade contemporary novels that feature Japanese-American protagonists. Some of these are companion books that share the same universe:

• Keep It Together, Keiko Carter (2020) – Focuses on Keiko Carter navigating friendship drama.
• Just Be Cool, Jenna Sakai (2021) – A direct companion novel to Keiko Carter, centering on Keiko's friend Jenna Sakai as she deals with a breakup and school newspaper rivalry.
• Sweet and Sour (2022) – A standalone novel set in Mystic, Connecticut, about childhood friendship, betrayal, and reconciliation.
• This Is How I Roll (2023) – A standalone middle-grade romantic comedy about a 12-year-old aspiring sushi chef.

Picture Books & Activity Books

For younger readers, Florence has co-authored a celebrated picture book biography with Jamie Michalak: Niki Nakayama: A Chef's Tale in 13 Bites (2021), showcasing the life of the famous Japanese-American chef. Earlier in her career, she also authored cultural activity books for kids, including China: Over 40 Activities to Experience China (2008) and Japan: Over 40 Activities to Experience Japan (2009).