The 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 on the University of Southern California campus, featured a standout appearance by author Lorena Gomez-Maese, who presented her children’s book The Spanish Swan Ballet. Published by MainSpring Books, the story follows Faith, a young girl with a disability who dreams of becoming the next “Spanish Swan” in Granada, Spain. Guided by her teacher La Maestra, Faith learns that perseverance and self-belief can overcome physical limitations, ultimately achieving her goal.
Gomez-Maese’s presence at the festival included a book signing and an exclusive interview, where she shared the inspiration drawn from her own cultural upbringing. “Through Faith’s journey, The Spanish Swan Ballet encourages young readers to embrace their unique abilities, pursue their dreams, and recognize that physical limitations do not define a person’s potential,” she explained. The book is available on Amazon, and more information can be found on the author’s website.
The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, founded in 1996, draws over 150,000 visitors annually and is one of the nation’s most celebrated literary gatherings. The event connects readers, authors, and publishers through author discussions, family programming, educational activities, and community engagement. By featuring diverse voices like Gomez-Maese, the festival continues its commitment to showcasing stories that inspire readers of all ages.
The impact of this announcement lies in its promotion of inclusive literature that empowers children with disabilities. The Spanish Swan Ballet offers a narrative that fosters empathy, confidence, and acceptance, resonating with families seeking stories that highlight perseverance over adversity. As the publishing industry increasingly prioritizes diverse representation, books like this one provide important role models for young readers. Gomez-Maese’s participation at a major literary event amplifies the message that every child, regardless of physical challenges, can pursue their dreams.
An interview with the author is available on YouTube, offering deeper insight into the book’s creation and themes. MainSpring Books, the publisher, is dedicated to helping authors share their stories through publishing, promotion, and literary event participation.
