There was something quietly magical about that afternoon at the LA Times Festival of Books 2026. The crowd ebbed and flowed like a tide of curious readers, but for a moment, everything seemed to center around one table—where an author sat, pen in hand, meeting each reader with a warm smile and a story to share. What began as a simple signing turned into a heartfelt exchange of gratitude, laughter, and connection, as copies of their book found new homes and eager hands. Each signature carried more than just ink; it held a memory, a fleeting but meaningful encounter between storyteller and reader.
Looking back, the moment felt like a snapshot preserved in time—the hum of conversations, the rustle of pages, and the unmistakable joy of seeing a story resonate with so many. It wasn’t just a successful book signing; it was a celebration of words, of journeys, and of the quiet power books have to bring people together. Even now, it lingers like a fond memory—one that both the author and their readers will carry long after the festival tents have come down.
One standout moment came from David Read, who held a successful book signing on April 18, 2026, from 2:30PM-3:30PM. Readers eagerly gathered to meet him, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere filled with genuine enthusiasm and curiosity about his work, “Give and Take.”
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.
Give and Take bursts onto the page with a compelling journey that moves from salvation to struggle, then gently settles into peace and gratitude. At its heart is a powerful idea: every choice we make, every relationship we build, and every path we follow is shaped by the delicate balance between what we give and what we take. Rooted in a deeper, almost divine design of the human soul, this book invites readers to reflect, engage, and rethink how they move through the world—turning everyday interactions into meaningful, intentional exchanges that can transform both self and spirit.
