Author Donna Voss made a notable appearance at the 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 at the University of Southern California campus, where she participated in a featured book signing and author interview at the MainSpring Books booth. The festival, one of the nation's most celebrated literary events, drew thousands of readers, families, educators, and authors for a weekend dedicated to storytelling and creative discovery.
Voss showcased her book Gone Surfing!, a work inspired by artistic expression, global surf destinations, and the power of imagination. The book takes readers on an adventurous journey through some of the world's most iconic surfing locations. What began as a series of watercolor paintings inspired by images of ocean waves gradually evolved into a narrative celebrating exploration, curiosity, and the beauty of experiencing new places and cultures.
Drawing from a creative process rooted in art and reflection, Voss developed the story while imagining the people, landscapes, and experiences connected to each destination. The result is a work that blends visual inspiration with storytelling, encouraging readers to dream beyond their immediate surroundings and embrace the possibilities of discovery.
During her interview, Voss discussed how painting became both a therapeutic and imaginative experience, 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 around them. Festival attendees also learned about the book's broader message: that creativity can serve as a bridge to learning, exploration, and personal growth.
The appearance provided an opportunity for readers to connect with an author who believes in the transformative power of imagination. Voss's participation at the festival underscores the growing trend of authors using visual arts as a springboard for literary works, a development that may encourage more multidisciplinary approaches in children's literature.
This news matters because it highlights how the publishing industry continues to embrace hybrid forms of storytelling that blend visual art with narrative, potentially expanding the ways in which young readers engage with books. The success of Gone Surfing! at a major literary event like the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books suggests a market appetite for works that combine aesthetic beauty with adventurous themes, which could influence future publishing trends.
For those interested in acquiring the book, it is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. An author interview is also available on YouTube for those seeking further insight into Voss's creative journey.
The implications for the industry are significant: as authors like Voss leverage visual arts to craft narratives, publishers may need to invest more in high-quality illustrations and cross-media marketing. Additionally, the festival's focus on such works signals that literary events increasingly value the intersection of art and literature, potentially opening new opportunities for artists and authors to collaborate.
