The 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 at the University of Southern California campus, featured a standout appearance by author Donna Voss, who presented her latest work, Gone Surfing!, at the MainSpring Books booth. The event, one of the nation's most celebrated literary gatherings, drew thousands of readers, families, educators, and authors for a weekend dedicated to storytelling and creative discovery.
Voss engaged attendees with a book that originated from a series of watercolor paintings inspired by ocean waves. What began as artistic expression evolved into a narrative celebrating exploration, curiosity, and the beauty of experiencing new places and cultures. Gone Surfing! takes readers on an adventurous journey through some of the world's most iconic surfing destinations, blending visual inspiration with storytelling to encourage readers to dream beyond their immediate surroundings.
During her author interview, Voss discussed how painting served as both a therapeutic and imaginative process, allowing ideas to develop naturally into a story. She shared her passion for inspiring young people to think creatively, pursue big ideas, and recognize their ability to make meaningful contributions to the world. Festival attendees learned about the book's broader message: that creativity can act as a bridge to learning, exploration, and personal growth.
The appearance provided a unique opportunity for readers to connect with an author who believes in the transformative power of imagination. MainSpring Books, the publishing and marketing company behind the event, is dedicated to helping authors share their stories with wider audiences through publishing, promotion, and literary event participation. By connecting authors with new platforms, the company expands the reach and impact of compelling literary works.
For those who missed the festival, Gone Surfing! is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. An author interview is also available online for those interested in learning more about Voss's creative process and the inspiration behind the book.
The festival appearance underscores the importance of events like the LA Times Festival of Books in fostering a love for reading and creativity. Voss's work exemplifies how art and narrative can intertwine, offering readers a journey that is both visually and emotionally enriching. As the literary world continues to evolve, books like Gone Surfing! remind us of the enduring power of imagination to connect people across cultures and inspire the next generation of storytellers.
