A Little About Us
Author. Illustrator. Dad
ABOUT | Michael Ivery
Michael Ivery's career has come full circle. After over 20 years as an award-winning DJ, traveling and achieving success, Ivery stepped back from the festivals and into the playroom. Inspired by his youngest daughter, he began writing and illustrating children's books and characters, thus spawning the idea to launch Tubba and Friends, a children's book brand.
As a devoted father who has always prioritized family, Michael transitioned from entertaining crowds to creating joyful experiences at home. Now, instead of spinning records, he spends his time crafting lively stories and creating characters that spark laughter and smiles in his daughters.
As an emerging creative in children's media, both as an illustrator and author, he continues to be inspired by the joys of childhood education and entertainment. He aims to spread happiness and imagination to young minds through his work.
STORY | How it started
THE BIG MUSIC JAMBOREE!
It was a sweltering Arizona summer in 2021 when my daughter and I were lounging on the couch, coloring together. "Daddy, will you draw me a bear?" she asked. I chuckled and gave it my best shot. Soon, Emma requested I draw a monkey, elephant, tiger, owl, fox - I had sketched nearly ten characters within the hour. They were cute and silly, but it sparked my imagination, and it was such a delight to see her face light up and the characters come to life. I began crafting a story around these characters, dressing them in bright designs and placing them in some her favorite places she has visited.
I aimed to create something entertaining yet educational, with positive messages about friendship, kindness, and adventure. Over ten months of drafting, revising, and coloring, "Tubba and Friends" finally came to life as stories, product ideas, and learning tools from a father simply aiming to make his little girl smile.
