About Author
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Meet
Michael
I was raised in a small town in Ohio and grew up as the youngest of three children. Having plenty of time to myself gave me the space to imagine, dream, and invent. I never found my place in team sports, so I turned toward music and skateboarding. Both became outlets for creativity and expression that still shape the way I think today.
My work life has been varied, stretching from building and engineering to medicine. Through all of it, music and writing have stayed constant. I spent close to a decade in Los Angeles pursuing music before meeting my wife and moving to Sydney, Australia in 2009.
After years of IVF treatments, we came to terms with not being able to have children of our own. While this was a painful truth, it also guided me to create a different kind of legacy. I decided to write children’s books that could bring joy to little readers everywhere and keep my “dad energy” alive in another form.
I began writing in 2014, starting with an ambitious series that I continue to shape. Most of my stories begin in everyday life, often sparked by small, funny, or tender moments that I quickly write down before they slip away. The Magic Stick Box grew from one of these moments and became the first of many stories I am excited to share.
I’ve always had an easy connection with kids. Whether it’s making them laugh with silly wordplay or joining in their games, I’ve found joy in seeing the world through their eyes. Writing lets me hold onto that joy and pass it on. Hearing a child read my story out loud is still the most rewarding part of the process.
Away from writing, I remain a musician at heart and have played in bands for much of my life. I also love woodworking for the focus and honesty it requires. Living near the ocean gives me the chance to explore tide pools and quiet stretches of coast. And I never miss the chance to enjoy comedians who play with words and ideas in surprising ways.
Through children’s books, I bring together creativity, humor, music, and imagination. My greatest hope is that each story offers children a reason to laugh, wonder, and dream, while giving parents moments to enjoy with them.
SHARE THE MAGIC
Classroom or
Library Readings
There’s something special about hearing a story told by the person who wrote it. Michael brings The Magic Stick Box to life with lively read-aloud sessions, playful interactions, and a chance for kids to spark their own imaginations.
During each visit, children laugh, draw, and join in the fun as they discover how a simple box of colored sticks can open the door to endless stories. Teachers and parents love the way Michael makes reading exciting and approachable.
Whether it’s a school, library, or community event, Michael’s goal is simple: to leave kids inspired to pick up a book and dream bigger.
