L.A. Times Festival of Books: Author Portraits Gallery
- Times Festival of Books returned to the University of Southern California campus over the weekend, drawing prominent authors, musicians, and cultural figures for a series of public conversations,...
- The annual festival, one of the largest literary gatherings in the United States, featured over 500 authors and 300 events across multiple stages and venues at USC.
- Larry David, co-creator of “Seinfeld” and star of “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” participated in a conversation about humor and storytelling, reflecting on decades of satirical work in television and...
Los Angeles — The 2026 L.A. Times Festival of Books returned to the University of Southern California campus over the weekend, drawing prominent authors, musicians, and cultural figures for a series of public conversations, signings, and readings. Among those photographed in the festival’s portrait studio were Larry David, Pat Benatar, Tina Knowles, Amy Tan, Lionel Richie, and Anne Lamott, each captured between scheduled appearances on panels and at book-related events.
The annual festival, one of the largest literary gatherings in the United States, featured over 500 authors and 300 events across multiple stages and venues at USC. Programming included discussions on fiction, memoir, poetry, science, and social issues, with special appearances by musicians who have also published books or engaged in literary advocacy.
Larry David, co-creator of “Seinfeld” and star of “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” participated in a conversation about humor and storytelling, reflecting on decades of satirical work in television and print. Pat Benatar, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, spoke about her memoir detailing her music career and personal life, which was released earlier this year. Tina Knowles, fashion designer and mother of Beyoncé and Solange Knowles, discussed her work in fashion and philanthropy, including her recent book on creativity and legacy.
Amy Tan, bestselling author of “The Joy Luck Club,” joined a panel on intergenerational narratives in Asian American literature, while Lionel Richie shared insights from his memoir chronicling his rise in the music industry and his work as a songwriter and producer. Anne Lamott, known for her writings on faith, parenting, and recovery, spoke about the role of vulnerability in creative expression during a well-attended session on Sunday morning.
Festival organizers noted strong attendance throughout the weekend, with crowds filling auditoriums and outdoor spaces despite variable weather conditions. Book sales at on-site vendors reportedly exceeded projections, particularly for titles by the featured authors. The event concluded on Sunday evening with a closing tribute to longtime supporters of the festival and announcements about next year’s dates.