Lorena Gomez-Maese, author of the children's book The Spanish Swan Ballet, appeared at the 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books on April 18-19 at the University of Southern California campus. The event, hosted by MainSpring Books, featured a book signing and an exclusive interview where Gomez-Maese discussed the inspiration behind her story, which follows a young girl with a disability who dreams of becoming a ballet dancer.
The festival, which has connected readers, authors, and publishers since 1996, draws more than 150,000 visitors annually. It provides a platform for diverse voices, and Gomez-Maese's appearance highlighted the importance of inclusive storytelling. The Spanish Swan Ballet, set in Granada, Spain, tells the story of Faith, a girl who, with the guidance of her teacher La Maestra, learns that perseverance and self-belief can overcome physical limitations. The book aims to encourage young readers to embrace their unique abilities and pursue their dreams.
Gomez-Maese noted that the narrative was shaped by her own cultural experiences and traditions. The festival's commitment to showcasing diverse voices aligns with the book's message of empathy and acceptance. Attendees had the opportunity to meet the author and learn about the book's themes. The Spanish Swan Ballet is available on Amazon. More information about the book and its author can be found on the official website. A YouTube interview with the author is also available here.
MainSpring Books, the publisher, focuses on helping authors share their stories through publishing, promotion, and literary events. The festival appearance underscores the growing demand for literature that reflects diverse experiences and promotes inclusion. By featuring authors like Gomez-Maese, the LA Times Festival of Books continues to foster a community where all readers can find stories that resonate with their own lives.
