Debbie Carruthers writes heartfelt middle-grade stories with lovable characters that make readers laugh and cry. As a teacher, parent, and former Year 6 student, Debbie understands how tricky the middle years can be — and she’s passionate about helping kids feel seen, understood, and supported through her writing.

Debbie grew up as a middle child in a middle-class family in Western Sydney. Shy and often on the sidelines, she found her moment to shine on athletics carnival days — something she hopes all children can experience. As a child, living in Samoa also shaped her perspective, giving her a lifelong connection to its people and culture and inspiring characters like

Joey in Surviving Year 6.

With over twenty years of teaching experience in primary, secondary, and tertiary settings, Debbie deeply understands student well-being and the challenges of transitioning to high school. Inspired by her mum’s creative teaching style and her dad’s positive influence on people, Debbie credits her parents with motivating her to become a teacher. Their influence continues to shape her approach to education and storytelling.

Debbie’s debut novel, Surviving Year 6, combines her personal and professional experiences. Sally’s story was inspired by Debbie’s cousin, whose lived experience with cystic fibrosis informed the character’s medical journey. Debbie also draws from her own health challenges, reflecting her determination to show young readers that they are not defined by their circumstances.

Debbie believes every child deserves to feel they belong. She gives a voice to characters like Bella — the queen bee with hidden insecurities — because she knows firsthand how often confident kids mask deeper feelings.

When she’s not writing, Debbie loves being a mum to her two boys, who inspire her every day. She shares ideas, stories, and resources with her husband and best friend, fellow middle-grade teachers, as they support students and families in their school communities. In addition, Debbie is developing a range of guides and teaching materials, including a comprehensive Stage 3 English program, available through her website for schools using Surviving Year 6 as a mentor text.

Debbie has stood at the school gate as both a teacher and a mum — sometimes cheering, sometimes wiping away tears — so she knows that surviving Year 6 isn’t just about the kids — it’s about the adults, too.