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 Dream Gardener” by Andrew Ramer.
Andrew Ramer was born in 1951 om Elm/hurst, Queens, New York, right across the street from an amusement park called Fairyland, and now he lives in Oak/Land, California, up the street from an amusement park called Fairyland. A lover of fairies, fairy tales, trees, and the books that come from them, the slash marks in those locations are deliberate.
Andrew, who goes by the name Eli, is the author of numerous books in several different genres, including Ever After, Queering the Text, Revelations for a New Millennium, and Our Tribe Chanting. He’s also a coauthor of the international bestseller Ask Your Angels. An ordained maggid, a sacred storyteller in the Jewish tradition, he’s been writing poems and stories since 1961 and writing his dreams down since 1971.
For more information on Andrew’s books and other writing, please visit his website: andrewramer.com
“The Dream Gardener” is a children’s book written around 1975 by Andrew and is beautifully illustrated by his father, Jack, an architect, artist, playwright, and also a gifted musician. After Jack’s passing, Andrew set the manuscript aside and forgot about it for 44 years. This tale can transcend generations and resonate with both children and adults alike.
At the heart of “The Dream Gardener” follows the dream gardener who diligently plants small, clear seeds in neat rows, nurturing them from dawn until dusk. The seeds sprout into vibrant green leaves by noon, and by sunset, they bloom into shimmering dream flowers that drift off into the world. Each flower, while appearing similar, carries its own unique essence; some bring forth joyful dreams, while others may harbor nightmares. This duality invites readers to reflect on the nature of their own dreams and the emotions they evoke.
As readers journey through the pages, they gain insight into the origins of dreams and the mysterious forces that shape them. The narrative explores the idea that dreams are not merely random occurrences but are influenced by our experiences, emotions, and the world around us. When the source of these dreams decides to alter its approach, the story takes a thought-provoking turn, prompting readers to consider the implications of change and the reasons behind it.
Ultimately, “The Dream Gardener” is more than just a children’s book; it is a poignant reminder of the power of dreams and the importance of nurturing our inner worlds. Andrew’s decision to revive this cherished story after decades speaks to the enduring nature of creativity and the bonds between generations. As readers immerse themselves in this beautifully illustrated tale, they are invited to reflect on their own dreams, the sources from which they spring, and the ways in which they can cultivate a garden of hope and imagination in their lives.
Contact Citi of Books at +1 877-389-2759 or send a message at the following links:
- info@citiofbooks.com
- https://citiofbooks.com/
- https://www.facebook.com/COBNMUSA/
- https://www.instagram.com/citiofbooks/
- https://www.threads.net/@citiofbooks?hl=en
- https://x.com/CITIOFBOOKSINC
- https://www.tiktok.com/@citiofbooksinc
- https://www.youtube.com/@citiofbooks
- https://www.pinterest.com/CitiofBooksinc/
- https://bsky.app/feeds