As the pages of history turn, we find ourselves reflecting on a remarkable milestone—the 30th Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, the largest book festival in the United States, held on April 26-27, 2025. Set against the stunning backdrop of the University of Southern California campus, this annual celebration of literature brought together thousands of book lovers, authors, and industry professionals for a weekend brimming with literary magic.
Attracting around 150,000 attendees from Southern California and beyond, the festival was a testament to the enduring appeal of literature and the community it fosters. Each event, each conversation, and each shared moment contributed to a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrated the diverse voices and stories that shape our world.
This year, Citi of Books was thrilled to be part of this vibrant gathering, where the love for literature was palpable in the air. Whether you were a lifelong bibliophile or a curious newcomer exploring the world of books, the festival provided a unique opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts and share our passion for the written word.
As we look back on this unforgettable weekend, we invite you to join us in reliving the highlights of Citi of Books’ gallery during the 30th Los Angeles Times Festival of Books—a true celebration of the literary arts! A book included in the gallery was “The World Needs Medjugorje Now More Than Ever” by Rita Silvestri.
Rita M. Rosini Silvestri was born on March 5, 1920, in Dunlevy, PA. She was the youngest of three sisters and graduated from Charleroi High School. She pursued her passion for medicine by studying pre-med at Penn State University, where she was a member of the Theta Phi Alpha Sorority. Rita earned her medical degree from Woman’s Medical College of Philadelphia (now Drexel University College of Medicine) and completed her pediatric internship at Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco. She returned to Pittsburgh for her residency at Western Pennsylvania Hospital and established a successful pediatric practice in Homestead Munhall, serving as a staff physician at West Penn and Homestead Hospitals until her retirement.
Rita married Judge Silvestri Silvestri and they had three children: John Mark Silvestri, Jean Marie Silvestri, and James Michael, who predeceased her. She was known for her vibrant personality and made many friends throughout her life.
After moving to Florida, she remained active in her community, particularly with the Ocean Summit Association in Ft Lauderdale. Rita was remembered for her spirit, grace, and the impact she had on those around her.
She survives with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandson, along with many loving nieces and nephews. Rita’s family and friends will cherish her memory, and her contributions to the medical field and her community will be long remembered.
In her inspiring book, “The World Needs Medjugorje Now More Than Ever,” author Rita Silvestri invites readers to embark on a transformative pilgrimage to the sacred village of Medjugorje. As she witnesses the apparitions of the Holy Mother of God, Rita not only experiences the miracles present in this spiritual haven but also confronts the challenges faced by the community today. Through her journey, we meet fellow pilgrims from diverse backgrounds, all united by a shared desire to receive the messages that Mary brings from her Son.
Rita’s narrative transports us back to mid-June of 1981, when two teenage girls, Mirjana and Ivanka, encountered an extraordinary event that would change their lives and the world. Medjugorje has become synonymous with divine encounters and spiritual renewal, drawing thousands of pilgrims seeking solace and guidance. The miraculous events that began over three decades ago continue to resonate, emphasizing the significance of this humble village as a beacon of hope for many.
Traveling to Medjugorje is an adventure through the picturesque landscapes of Croatia and Bosnia-Hercegovina, where the village stands as a testament to faith and resilience. Rita vividly describes the region, once scarred by conflict but now flourishing with the spirit of peace. Through her heartfelt storytelling, she captures the essence of Medjugorje and the urgency of its message in today’s world, encouraging readers to embrace the call to peace and love that the Queen of Peace embodies. Ultimately, “The World Needs Medjugorje Now More Than Ever” reminds us that, regardless of our backgrounds, we can find common ground in the pursuit of hope and healing.
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