Meet Deborah Atwood, a gifted storyteller whose narratives are as vibrant and enchanting as the Pacific Northwest’s Salish Sea that inspires them. A trained marine resource scientist with a distinguished career in Washington, D.C., Deborah dedicated her work to supporting conservation efforts for working agriculture and coastal communities.

These years of experience immersed her in the intricate beauty and fragile balance of our oceans, instilling a deep love and understanding of marine ecosystems that now breathe life into her tales.

This passion shines brilliantly in her debut novel, The Secret Life of Lulu the Enchanting Kelp Mermaid. In her stories, Deborah masterfully blends scientific knowledge with whimsical wonder, creating worlds that are both magical and true to the natural world.

Far from the halls of policy, her hands-on love for the ocean has been a lifelong pursuit, beginning with childhood explorations of tide pools. Today, she continues to immerse herself in the coastal environment, often found kayaking across the glittering waters or tending to her own thriving shellfish garden.

While her work and personal adventures have taken her around the globe—supporting scientific expeditions with her husband, Robert E. Hyman—her favorite journey remains closer to home. It is in the quiet moments of creation that Deborah finds her greatest joy, building new and imaginative worlds for her young readers to discover. Through her writing, she not only entertains but also gently fosters a sense of stewardship and curiosity for the ocean, leaving a legacy of wonder for the next generation of marine enthusiasts.