The Spanish Swan Ballet Promotes Inclusion at LA Times Festival of Books

The 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 at the University of Southern California, featured author Lorena Gomez-Maese and her children's book The Spanish Swan Ballet. The festival, which has drawn over 150,000 visitors annually since 1996, provides a platform for diverse voices and stories. Gomez-Maese participated in a book signing and an exclusive interview, sharing the inspiration behind her work.

Set in Granada, Spain, The Spanish Swan Ballet follows Faith, a young girl with a disability who aspires to become the next 'Spanish Swan.' With guidance from her teacher, La Maestra, Faith learns that perseverance and self-belief are key to achieving her dream. The narrative draws from Gomez-Maese's own cultural experiences and aims to encourage young readers to embrace their unique abilities and recognize that physical limitations do not define potential.

The festival's commitment to showcasing inclusive literature aligns with the book's message. Attendees had the opportunity to meet the author and explore how storytelling fosters empathy and acceptance. The book is available through Amazon, and more information can be found on the author's website. A YouTube interview with Gomez-Maese is also available.

MainSpring Books, the publisher, focuses on helping authors share their stories through publishing, promotion, and literary events. The appearance of The Spanish Swan Ballet at the festival highlights the importance of diverse narratives in children's literature and the role of events like the LA Times Festival of Books in connecting authors with readers.