The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books 2026, held on April 18–19, 2026 at the University of Southern California campus, once again brought together book lovers, authors, publishers, and creatives for a vibrant celebration of literature. Known as one of the largest literary festivals in the United States, the event featured panel discussions, book signings, live performances, and countless booths filled with stories waiting to be discovered. The atmosphere was lively and inspiring, offering something for every kind of reader.
Citi of Books proudly took part in this year’s festival, connecting with attendees from all walks of life. Their booth became a welcoming space where visitors explored a diverse collection of titles and learned more about the company’s publishing and marketing services. Throughout the two-day event, the team engaged in meaningful conversations with aspiring authors, avid readers, and fellow industry professionals, making the experience both productive and memorable.
The participation of Citi of Books in LATFOB 2026 was a valuable opportunity to showcase their growing catalog and strengthen their presence in the global book community. Being surrounded by passionate storytellers and curious readers allowed the team to gain fresh insights into current literary trends while building new relationships. The energy of the festival reflected the shared love for storytelling, reinforcing Citi of Books’ commitment to helping authors bring their work to a wider audience.
Attending book events like the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books continues to play an important role in connecting stories with readers. It opens doors for collaboration, discovery, and inspiration that go beyond the pages of a book. As Citi of Books carries this momentum forward, readers are invited to explore featured titles in their Book Gallery, including “Walking a Crooked Path: Pilgrimage of the Soul” by Diane Wallace.
Diane Wallace draws upon decades of personal experiences to write stories that amuse, encourage the reader to consider the meaning of life, and share a personal journey. She grew up on the shores of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, a land of incredible beauty. She attended Northern Michigan University and graduated with a degree in Social Work. She has been writing stories since childhood, won First Prize in a Kansas Author’s Club contest, wrote a weekly column in a local newspaper for four years, and has written articles on several online platforms, including her own website.
A personal note from Diane Wallace: You might wonder why I decided to write five books since I am now considered to be elderly. I wrote a lot on-line, first at a place called Squidoo, and then on my own website. These were articles of people and places that interested me, and some shorter articles about my personal life. I thought to myself “if those short articles were put together, they might make a great book.” That turned into Zen and the Art of Kitty Litter Raking, which has been received favorably by those who have read it. I then challenged myself to write about my personal spiritual journey. Walking a Crooked Path is not lengthy, but as one reviewer noted it is a “beautifully written memoir that captures the essence of a lifelong spiritual quest.” I just published my fifth book, The Quest for the Yellow Diamond.
“Walking a Crooked Path: Pilgrimage of the Soul” by Diane Wallace found its place among the vibrant shelves of the 2026 LA Times Festival of Books, quietly drawing in readers who were searching for something deeper. Displayed in the book gallery, it stood out not through loud fanfare, but through its promise of honesty and reflection. Attendees who paused to take a closer look often lingered, intrigued by its poetic tone and the invitation to explore life’s winding spiritual journey.
The memoir offered a heartfelt look into Wallace’s lifelong search for meaning, weaving together experiences across different beliefs, identities, and moments of doubt and clarity. It didn’t try to present a perfect path. Instead, it embraced the beauty of uncertainty, showing how faith can evolve over time. The idea of a “crooked path” resonated with many visitors, especially those who understood that growth rarely follows a straight line. It felt personal, relatable, and comforting in its sincerity.
By the end of the event, the book had left a quiet but lasting impression on those who encountered it. It became one of those titles people talked about after walking away from the booth, a gentle reminder that self-discovery is not about finding quick answers, but about staying open to the journey. For readers who crave something reflective and soul-stirring, Diane Wallace’s work proved to be a meaningful companion worth picking up.
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