Picture a Haitian-American storyteller who spins rom-com magic with a side of social consciousness—meet Debbie Rigaud! Born to Haitian immigrants in Manhattan, this Jersey girl turned young adult author crafts stories that blend humor, heart, and diversity. From her royal romance Truly Madly Royally to her collaboration with Alyssa Milano on the Hope series, Rigaud’s work lights up the YA scene with relatable characters and vibrant narratives.
Rigaud’s journey from magazine journalist to celebrated author is as inspiring as her books. With a knack for capturing teen voices and a passion for empowering young readers, she’s become a fresh voice in YA literature, championing representation and tackling real-world issues with a playful, uplifting tone.
The Making of Debbie Rigaud
Born in Manhattan to Haitian immigrant parents, Debbie Rigaud grew up in Brooklyn before her family traded city life for East Orange, New Jersey. As the third of four daughters, she jokingly imagines her birth greeted with a playful, “A girl… encore?” This vibrant, bicultural upbringing—steeped in Haitian and African-American culture—shaped her storytelling. Rigaud started her career in journalism, writing for teen magazines like Seventeen, Twist, and CosmoGIRL!. Interviewing everyone from celebrities to “real” girls honed her ability to capture authentic voices, a skill that shines in her fiction.
Her pivot to fiction began with a novella, Double Act, in the Hallway Diaries anthology, but it was her love for romantic comedy that defined her path. Inspired by her Jersey roots and global experiences—including a stint in Bermuda—Rigaud infuses her stories with humor, cultural richness, and a knack for making readers feel seen.
Debbie Rigaud’s Unforgettable Stories
Rigaud’s YA novels are a delightful blend of rom-com fluff and meaningful themes. Her debut standalone, Perfect Shot (2009), is a romantic comedy that set the stage for her signature style: witty dialogue, relatable characters, and a touch of social awareness. Truly Madly Royally (2019), inspired by Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, follows Zora Emerson, a Haitian-American teen who falls for a European prince at a summer program. Critics praised its lighthearted vibe and exploration of race and identity, calling it a “sparkling” read that balances fun with depth.
Simone Breaks All the Rules (2021) tackles strict parenting and teen rebellion as Haitian-American Simone creates a senior-year bucket list to defy her parents’ no-dating rules. With glowing reviews, it’s a fan favorite for its humor and heart. Rigaud also co-authored the Hope series with Alyssa Milano, a middle-grade hit featuring Hope Roberts, a biracial aspiring scientist navigating school and activism. From Project Middle School to Project Go Green, the series inspires young readers to dream big and act boldly.
Rigaud’s magical realism novel, A Girl’s Guide to Love & Magic (2022), dives into Haitian vodou culture, earning a starred Kirkus review for its joyful romance and cultural celebration. Her stories consistently weave diversity, empowerment, and community, making them must-reads for teens craving fun yet meaningful tales.
Why Debbie Rigaud Matters
Debbie Rigaud’s impact lies in her ability to craft stories that resonate with diverse readers. Her Haitian-American heroines bring much-needed representation to YA literature, offering young people mirrors to see themselves and windows to understand others. By blending lighthearted romance with issues like race, identity, and cultural expectations, Rigaud empowers teens to embrace their uniqueness while navigating life’s challenges. Her collaboration with Alyssa Milano on the Hope series amplifies her reach, inspiring middle-grade readers to tackle social issues with courage.
Now living in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband and children, Rigaud continues to write stories that celebrate love, community, and self-discovery. Her work reminds us that diverse voices can tell universal stories, making her a vital part of the YA landscape.
- Born: Manhattan, New York, to Haitian immigrant parents
- Key Works: Perfect Shot, Truly Madly Royally, Simone Breaks All the Rules, A Girl’s Guide to Love & Magic, Hope series
- Notable: Truly Madly Royally is a Junior Library Guild Selection; A Girl’s Guide to Love & Magic earned a starred Kirkus review
Snag Truly Madly Royally or Simone Breaks All the Rules and dive into Debbie Rigaud’s heartwarming, laugh-out-loud YA world!