Stories That Left a Mark at the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books 2026 Continue to Resonate

Following a vibrant and engaging weekend at the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books 2026, Inks & Bindings continues to spotlight a compelling collection of titles that captured the attention of festivalgoers at the University of Southern California (USC) campus.

Presented at Booth #978 in the Black Zone during the April 18–19 event, these works reflect a diverse range of voices and themes, from heartfelt children’s stories and faith-based reflections to gripping fiction and intimate poetry, each leaving a lasting impression on readers long after the festival concluded.

Among the featured titles is “Grandpa Poppy: A Child’s View of Alzheimer’s” by Jennifer DeLapa, a touching and accessible story that introduces young readers to the realities of Alzheimer’s disease through the eyes of a child.

The narrative follows nine-year-old Sam as he begins to notice changes in his beloved grandfather, guided by the gentle support of Grandma Nonna. Through simple yet meaningful storytelling, the book helps children understand complex emotions surrounding memory loss, change, and love.

DeLapa, a registered nurse with a Master of Science in Management, brings both professional insight and personal experience to the work, dedicating the book to her husband, who lives with early-onset Alzheimer’s, and to her family.

In “Stand Up… Face Up… Look Up…,” Ronnie Kidd offers a spiritually grounded exploration of the life of King David, inviting readers to look beyond familiar biblical narratives and discover deeper lessons of faith, resilience, and redemption.

Drawing connections between David’s life and New Testament teachings, the book highlights how individuals can confront their own challenges like standing up to adversity, facing personal shortcomings, and looking toward God for guidance. With its engaging perspective, the work encourages readers to reflect on their own spiritual journeys while gaining a renewed understanding of a foundational biblical figure.

Action and suspense take center stage in John R. Scales’ “In Service of the Nation,” a high-stakes fictional narrative rooted in real-world military experience.

Set in the near future, the novel follows a newly deployed U.S. Army Special Forces soldier as a routine overseas mission quickly escalates into a dangerous global crisis involving organized crime and the threat of nuclear catastrophe.

Drawing from his 32-year military career, including service in Afghanistan and Vietnam, Scales crafts a story that blends authenticity with fast-paced storytelling, offering readers a gripping look at the complexities of modern warfare, leadership, and international conflict.

In the realm of faith and family, Rosenir Geraci’s “Jacob’s Troubles: A Guide in Parenting” provides a thoughtful and reflective approach to raising emotionally healthy children.

Using the biblical story of Jacob and Esau as a framework, Geraci explores how parental choices, such as favoritism, discipline, and emotional awareness, can have long-lasting effects across generations.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience, Geraci combines clinical expertise with Christian principles, offering practical insights that encourage parents to grow alongside their children while fostering healthier family dynamics.

Rounding out the collection is Janis Latimore’s “Oh, Nigel Is That You?: A Poetry Book,” a heartfelt tribute that captures the early years of a child’s life through rhythmic and affectionate verse.

Chronicling Nigel’s journey from toddlerhood through his formative years, the book reflects the author’s deep personal connection and admiration for her nephew.

Latimore, a retired public servant and lifelong writer, draws from her experiences across Paris, Washington, D.C., and Maryland to craft poetry that celebrates family, growth, and the simple yet profound moments that shape childhood.

Through this meaningful showcase, Inks & Bindings reaffirms its mission of amplifying diverse voices and connecting readers with stories that inform, inspire, and endure beyond the moment. While the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books 2026 has concluded, readers can continue discovering these impactful titles through the Inks & Bindings website.

All featured books remain available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and many other leading online book retailers worldwide.

About Inks & Bindings:

Launching brilliant stars into the spotlight! Inks & Bindings is set to broaden horizons, revamp to perfection, and produce a masterpiece through the power of books.

Inks and Bindings is a premier self-publishing company located at the heart of the Golden State. Aptly based where fashion, entertainment, and culture thrive, the team goes all out in bringing independent authors into the sweet California spotlight.

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Jorelou Gabato

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Inks and Bindings

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