Donna Voss's 'Gone Surfing!' Captivates Audiences at 2026 LA Times Festival of Books

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 festival, one of the nation's most anticipated literary gatherings, drew thousands of readers, families, educators, and authors for a weekend celebrating storytelling and creative discovery.

Voss engaged attendees with a book that originated from a series of watercolor paintings inspired by ocean waves. Over time, these paintings evolved into a narrative exploring global surf destinations, artistic expression, and the power of imagination. Gone Surfing! takes readers on an adventurous journey through iconic surfing locations, weaving a story that encourages curiosity and an appreciation for diverse cultures. Voss explained during her author interview how the creative process was both therapeutic and imaginative, allowing ideas to develop organically into a cohesive story.

The book's broader message resonated with festival-goers: creativity can serve as a bridge to learning, exploration, and personal growth. Voss shared her passion for inspiring young people to think creatively, pursue big ideas, and recognize their ability to make meaningful contributions. Her appearance provided a unique opportunity for readers to connect with an author who believes deeply in the transformative power of imagination.

For those unable to attend, Gone Surfing! is available through major retailers, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble. An author interview is also available for those interested in learning more about the inspiration behind the book.

MainSpring Books, the publisher behind Gone Surfing!, is dedicated to helping authors share their stories with readers worldwide through publishing, promotion, media opportunities, and literary event participation. By connecting authors with new audiences and meaningful platforms, the company aims to expand the reach and impact of compelling literary works. The festival appearance underscored the importance of such events in fostering a love for reading and creativity.

As the festival concluded, Voss's message lingered: imagination knows no bounds, and through creativity, individuals can explore the world and themselves in profound ways. Her participation at the LA Times Festival of Books highlighted the enduring power of storytelling to inspire and connect people across generations.