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 “Dar y Recibir” by David Read.
David A. Read is a devoted author and spiritual seeker whose journey took a transformative turn in 2016 when he felt a divine calling to write a book titled “Give and Take.” This calling was not just a simple nudge; it was a persistent message from God that compelled David to confront the shortcomings in his spiritual life. As he embarked on this writing journey, he found himself undergoing a profound maturing process, deepening his understanding of faith and spirituality. Through the revelations he received while writing, David not only crafted a compelling narrative but also experienced significant personal growth, learning to embrace the lessons of humility and surrender.
Growing up in a small rural town in Northern Indiana, David balanced his time between coaching junior high school teams, running a co-owned business, and working for large corporations. His life took a pivotal turn when he married his best friend and together, they welcomed three children into their family. It was during this time that God began to qualify David for a greater purpose, urging him to shift his focus from self-centered living to a deeper relationship with the Lord. Inspired by the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 3:7-13, David continues to press forward in his spiritual journey, striving to know Christ and the power of His resurrection. Amidst the trials and victories of life, he remains anchored in the love of God, Jesus, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, ever committed to sharing his insights and experiences through his writing.
“Dar y Recibir,” the Spanish Translation for “Give and Take” by David Read traces a journey from salvation through struggle, into peace, and finally to gratitude. David Read suggests that our beliefs about people, work, and relationships all spring from one core principle: the balance between what we offer and what we receive. This balance, he explains, is rooted in the divine design of our souls—created in God’s image—which equips us to engage meaningfully with every aspect of life.
This book offers a thoughtful exploration of how our lives are shaped by what we choose to give and what we choose to take. Rooted in the biblical truth that we are made in God’s image, Read argues that every thought, action, and relationship reflects this divine capacity. Starting from salvation, the journey weaves through spiritual warfare, restoration, peace, and ultimately gratitude—illuminating how spiritual insight transforms our responses to life’s ups and downs.
As the book unfolds, it becomes clear that every encounter, every experience, and every relationship reflects how we give to God and how we receive from Him. Read emphasizes that God abundantly supplies wisdom and resources, urging us to embrace these gifts for growth and transformation.
The deeper we go, the more we realize that our lives are defined by what we contribute and the wisdom we take in. The principle of give-and-take is not abstract; it provides a practical framework for navigating daily challenges and building healthy relationships.
Drawing from the lives of biblical figures like David, Nehemiah, and Daniel, Read illustrates how their faith, discipline, and choices embodied this principle. Through their stories, we learn that respect, forgiveness, and mastering our thoughts are vital to living out this dynamic. These examples reveal how love and divine guidance shape our actions, decisions, and connections with God and others.
Ultimately, “Dar y Recibir” by David Read blends theology with practical insights, inviting readers to pause and reflect on their own lives. By practicing this balance, we can strengthen our faith, deepen our relationships, and experience the fullness of God’s purpose. More than just a book, it serves as a call to transformation—encouraging readers to reimagine how they engage with God, others, and the world around them.
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