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 “View from the Front Row: The Jesus Movement” by Larry Durham.
Larry Dean Durham, originally from Alliance, Nebraska, has led a dynamic life marked by creativity, faith, and service. During the 1970s and early 1980s, he was deeply involved in the Jesus Movement at Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, California, where he was mentored by influential Christian leaders like Chuck Smith, Chuck Missler, and Rick Warren. His career in the entertainment industry spanned over 30 years as a director of package engineering, where his award-winning custom packaging work—ranging from LPs to DVDs—earned him patents and professional acclaim.
Larry’s enduring commitment to faith is reflected in his decades of ministry, particularly through leadership in Life Groups and church service, including his role as chairman of His Place Christian Centre in Indiana. He emphasizes small-group discipleship as a powerful tool for spiritual growth and community building. As the author of MTFT (My Thoughts for Today), a collection of over 650 devotionals, Larry shares his wisdom and reflections to encourage others. Now residing in North Carolina with his wife, Nickie, he cherishes time with their growing family and remains actively involved at Grace Covenant Church in Cornelius.
“View From the Front Row: The Jesus Movement” provides a compelling and intimate perspective on the transformative Christian revival that swept across the United States in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Unlike many existing narratives that often highlight the prominent leaders of the movement, Durham, as a member of the congregation during this pivotal time, offers a unique portrayal from the viewpoint of the laity who were deeply engaged in the experience.
The book captures the essence of the “Jesus Freaks,” a generation yearning for spiritual meaning amidst the societal disillusionment of the era. Durham argues that the Jesus Movement was not simply a human endeavor but rather a divine orchestration, revealing God’s love through imperfect yet willing individuals. Through vivid storytelling, he recounts communal gatherings, street preaching, and music festivals, showcasing the movement’s countercultural approach during a time of significant social upheaval.
With renewed public interest in the Jesus Movement, particularly following the release of Greg Laurie’s “Jesus Revolution” film, Durham’s firsthand account fills an important gap in the historical narrative. His reflections provide a genuine portrayal of a movement that not only influenced contemporary American society and culture but also left a lasting impact on politics and spirituality.
Overall, “View from the Front Row: The Jesus Movement” by Larry Durham stands as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of the Jesus Movement, highlighting its ongoing relevance in today’s spiritual landscape and inviting readers to reflect on the transformative power of faith in challenging times.
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