The 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 on the University of Southern California campus, became the stage for Donna Voss to present her latest work, Gone Surfing!. At the MainSpring Books booth, Voss engaged festival-goers in a featured book signing and author interview, drawing attention to a narrative that began as a series of watercolor paintings and evolved into a celebration of global surf culture and the spirit of adventure.
The festival, one of the nation's most prominent literary events, attracted thousands of readers, families, and educators. Voss's appearance tapped into the event's core theme of storytelling and creative discovery. Her book, Gone Surfing!, takes readers on a journey through iconic surfing destinations worldwide, blending artistic expression with a tale that encourages curiosity and the appreciation of new places and cultures. The story's origin lies in Voss's creative process, where painting served as both a therapeutic and imaginative outlet, allowing the narrative to unfold naturally from visual inspiration.
During her interview, Voss shared insights into how she developed the book, emphasizing the role of imagination in connecting with diverse landscapes and people. She spoke passionately about inspiring young readers to think creatively, pursue ambitious ideas, and recognize their capacity to contribute meaningfully to the world. The book's broader message, as Voss explained, is that creativity can act as a bridge to learning and personal growth, a theme that resonated with the festival audience.
Attendees had the opportunity to purchase signed copies and learn more about the book's journey from art to story. The event underscored the importance of literary festivals in fostering connections between authors and readers, providing a platform for works like Gone Surfing! to reach new audiences. Voss's participation highlighted the transformative power of imagination, a message that aligns with the festival's mission to celebrate the written word and its impact.
For those interested in exploring Voss's work further, Gone Surfing! is available through major retailers. The book can be found on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Additionally, an author interview is available for those seeking deeper insight into her creative process.
MainSpring Books, the publisher behind Gone Surfing!, continues to support authors in sharing their stories with a global audience through publishing, promotion, and literary event participation. The company's presence at the festival exemplifies its dedication to expanding the reach of compelling literary works.
