By: Eli Grant
When Kathryn Starke couldn’t find a single picture book to teach her second-grade students about the seven continents, she didn’t just adjust her lesson plan—she wrote the book herself.
That decision sparked what would become a global publishing legacy.
In 2005, the Virginia-based educator founded Creative Minds Publications to publish her first children’s book, Amy’s Travels. Now, two decades later, her company has grown into an award-winning publishing house with international reach, a philanthropic footprint, and a powerful mission that hasn’t changed since day one: to teach the world to read.
A Humble Beginning With a Global Impact
“I never imagined I would become a published author—let alone the founder and CEO of a publishing company,” Starke shares.
At the time, she was an elementary school teacher with a background in literacy education. Driven by the needs of her classroom, Starke crafted Amy’s Travels, based on her real-life friend Amy, who had lived on five continents. The book became an instant hit with students and teachers alike—so much so that it was later selected by the California Department of Education for its multicultural book list and adapted into a musical by the Latin Ballet of Virginia.
“No matter where you live, you learn about the seven continents,” Starke explains. “I knew this educational true story could support classrooms around the world.”
Balancing Creativity and Strategy
Starke has authored six books herself and built a thriving business that helps other writers bring their stories to life. Her dual role as both a bestselling author and publisher might seem daunting, but for her, the balance comes naturally.
“I only write when I’m inspired or have something important to say,” she says. “And when we choose which books to publish, we look for creative projects we can genuinely get behind—stories we believe will reach and impact readers.”
With her background as a literacy leader in schools, she’s no stranger to structured timelines and measurable goals. That foundation has helped her bring strategic thinking into a space often dominated by creative chaos.
“Being organized, disciplined, and resourceful are the skills that have supported me most in business,” she notes.
Lessons Learned—and Shared
Looking back, Starke acknowledges that her early hesitations around self-promotion delayed the reach of her work.
“At first, I was uncomfortable sharing my accomplishments on social media. Facebook was really the only platform then, and I didn’t feel confident putting myself out there,” she admits.
That mindset has since shifted. Today, Creative Minds Publications maintains a strong presence on both Instagram and LinkedIn, keeping readers, educators, and fans engaged and informed.
“I learned that if you don’t share your story, no one else will. Visibility matters.”
Publishing With Purpose
Creative Minds Publications now curates a growing catalog of children’s books, educational resources, and—more recently—inspirational Christian titles.
“We love selecting engaging books that can make a difference in the life of a young reader,” Starke says. “And we partner with talented, committed authors who are just as passionate about their message.”
But the company doesn’t just stop at publishing books—it builds purpose-driven partnerships. One of its well-known initiatives is Tackle Reading, a national literacy campaign that unites books and football.
“Tackle Reading began with the goal of promoting a love of literacy with a passion for football,” says Starke, whose book by the same name helped launch the movement.
Every March, NFL players, teams, and Hall of Famers visit schools to read to children and promote literacy. The initiative will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2026, with ongoing support from organizations like Dr. Seuss Enterprises and Random House Children’s Books.
“Our partnership with the NFL has been one of the most impactful,” Starke shares. “It brings joy, inspiration, and books to students across the country.”
Moments That Matter
Over the years, Starke’s impact has gone far beyond the classroom. In spring 2025, she was invited to speak at the World Literacy Summit at Oxford University, sharing her work with a global audience of educators and literacy advocates.
“It was an incredible honor,” she says. “To be on a stage like that, representing not just my company but the importance of literacy worldwide—it was surreal.”
Her book A Touchdown in Reading: An Educator’s Guide to Literacy Instruction has also gained national acclaim, helping over 200 schools improve reading outcomes. It was even voted one of the “best books to teach kids to read.”
Celebrating 20 Years With 20 New Books
To mark Creative Minds Publications’ 20th anniversary, the company is focusing on an exciting publishing year, with plans to release 20 new titles in 2025.
“We’re currently accepting submissions—no agent required,” Starke says. “It’s an exciting time to grow our imprint and welcome new voices.”
She’s especially passionate about debut authors and diverse illustrators, aiming to amplify stories that reflect the real world children live in.
And that’s not all—Starke is looking toward Hollywood for the next chapter.
