The people behind the pages
Meet Little Phoenix Studios
Little Phoenix Studios is a family-rooted creative company where clinical expertise, artistic vision, and the wonder of childhood come together to create stories that heal, inspire, and empower.
Michael Starr, LICSW
Michael is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a deep passion for helping children and families navigate big emotions with confidence and compassion. As the author of Magic In Your Mind, he brings his clinical expertise to the page — weaving therapeutic concepts into stories that feel warm, accessible, and real. Michael is also an entrepreneur and content creator who believes that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have for healing and growth. At home, he is a devoted husband and father, and the heart behind Little Phoenix Studios.
Caitlyn Starr, LMSW
Caitlyn is a Licensed Master Social Worker whose creativity and clinical insight bring a unique warmth to everything she touches. As an illustrator for Little Phoenix Studios, she transforms the stories her family creates into vivid, emotionally resonant artwork that speaks directly to children. Caitlyn is also an entrepreneur and content creator who is passionate about mental health, family wellness, and the power of art as a form of expression. As a mother and wife, she is the creative soul of the Starr family and a driving force behind the studio's vision.
Makayla Starr
Makayla is the spark that started it all. As a young artist and student, she brings an authentic child's perspective to every project she contributes to — reminding the whole team why these stories matter. Her illustrations carry a joyful, imaginative energy that only a child can offer, and her creative contributions to Magic In Your Mind are a testament to what happens when kids are given the space to create. Makayla is the daughter of Michael and Caitlyn Starr, and the living proof that little phoenixes really do rise.
Makayla's ArtStories Born from Real Life
Every book, every illustration, every story that comes out of Little Phoenix Studios carries a piece of this family. We create because we believe in the power of children's voices — and we hope our work helps your family feel a little more seen, a little more understood, and a lot more inspired.