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 the world and entertaining thousands, he traded the festival stage for the playroom. Inspired by his youngest daughter, Michael began writing and illustrating children’s books and characters—sparking the creation of Tubba and Friends, a children’s book brand celebrating imagination, kindness, and adventure.
As a devoted father, Michael shifted his focus from entertaining crowds to creating joyful moments at home. Now, instead of spinning records, he crafts lively stories and characters that bring laughter and smiles to his daughters.
An emerging creative in children’s media, Michael is both an illustrator and author inspired by the joys of childhood education and entertainment. Through Tubba and Friends, he aims to spread happiness, imagination, and learning to young minds everywhere.
Learn more about Michael’s journey at www.MichaelIvery.com.
STORY | How it started
THE BIG MUSIC JAMBOREE!
It all began on a sweltering Arizona summer day in 2021. My daughter and I were lounging on the couch, coloring together, when she asked, “Daddy, will you draw me a bear?” Chuckling, I gave it my best shot. Soon after, she asked for a monkey, an elephant, a tiger, and more. Within the hour, I had sketched nearly ten whimsical characters.
Her excitement as the characters came to life sparked something within me. I began crafting a story around these sketches, dressing the characters in bright designs and placing them in some of her favorite places.
I wanted to create something that was both entertaining and educational—filled with positive messages about friendship, kindness, and adventure. Over the next ten months, I poured countless hours into drafting, revising, and coloring. What started as a simple way to make my little girl smile grew into Tubba and Friends: stories, products, and learning tools for families everywhere.
