Some storytellers begin with a plot. Others begin with a character.
For Michael Ivery, storytelling starts with creating memorable characters and imaginative worlds that invite readers to explore, laugh, and discover something new.
As a character creator, cartoonist, illustrator, and author, Michael develops original stories inspired by childhood wonder, music, family experiences, and the small adventures that often become our favorite memories. His work has earned recognition beyond the page, including nominations for Best Author in Phoenix Magazine's Best of the Valley awards in both 2025 and 2026.
At the heart of Michael's work is a love of character-driven storytelling, the idea that a memorable cast and a world worth returning to can grow far beyond a single story. His creative work explores how those characters can live across books, comics, animation, and other forms of visual storytelling while remaining rooted in humor, friendship, family, and everyday adventure.
Visitors to Scottsdale Book Festival 2027 will have the opportunity to meet Michael, learn more about his creative process, and discover the characters and stories he continues to develop.
About Michael Ivery
Michael Ivery is a cartoonist, character creator, and author developing original stories inspired by childhood wonder, music, and everyday adventures.
Before writing and illustrating books, he spent more than two decades as an award-winning DJ and event producer, creating live experiences that brought people together through rhythm, culture, and community.
Over time, that same creative energy found its way onto the page as he began writing and drawing the characters that would grow into the children's book series Tubba and Friends. Set in the colorful world of Harmony Ridge, the series follows Tubba Bear and her musical group of friends through adventures built around friendship, curiosity, music, and imagination.
Today, Michael continues creating original characters and story worlds rooted in humor, family, and the everyday moments that connect us all.
Visit Michael Ivery at Scottsdale Book Festival 2027
Families, readers, aspiring creators, and anyone who loves original characters and imaginative storytelling are invited to meet Michael Ivery during Scottsdale Book Festival 2027. Discover Tubba and Friends, learn more about the process of building story worlds and developing memorable characters, and see how an idea on the page can grow into something much bigger.
Links
Author Website: www.MichaelIvery.com