Tags

, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

by Jennifer S. Pitts

“Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds.”

Though originally a tribute to the ancient Persian royal couriers, this enduring phrase also perfectly captures the spirit of SCBWI’s LA and SoCal PAL members, who braved unpredictable weather to complete their own “appointed rounds” at the 2025 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books.

SCBWI-L.A. (l-r) authors Ann Suk Wang and Glenda Galvan-Garcia, and illustrator Joy Hwang Ruiz

This year marked the 30th anniversary of the Festival, a free public celebration of literature held on the University of Southern California (USC) campus. Since its founding, the Festival has remained committed to its simple goal: to bring together the people who create books with the people who love to read them. Our SCBWI members proudly represent both groups—storytellers and avid readers—which is why we’re thrilled to celebrate SCBWI-L.A.’s tenth year at the Festival, now joined by SCBWI-SoCal for its third.

SCBWI-SoCal (l-r) author Kobina Comme, illustrator Lauren Gallegos, and author Judy Campbell-Smith

Despite Saturday morning’s wet weather, our dedicated members rose to the challenge of keeping books dry and spirits high. By the afternoon, the skies cleared, and Sunday brought continued sunshine along with a steady stream of enthusiastic readers eager to meet our PAL (Published and Listed) authors and illustrators and purchase signed copies of their books.

SCBWI-L.A. (l-r) author Janie Emaus, author/illustrator Molly Ruttan, and author/illustrator Annelouise Mahoney

At booth #826, our vibrant community of creators did more than showcase their work—they created a memorable, interactive experience for festivalgoers of all ages. From bubbles and art activities to games and giveaways, their imaginative efforts drew in crowds and sparked meaningful connections around the love of stories.

SCBWI-L.A. (l-r) authors W.R. Miller and Lori Polydoros, and PAL Liaison Jennifer S. Pitts; SCBWI SoCal (l-r) author/illustrator Sasha Mayer, and authors Dan McCauley and R.S. Mellette

As the Festival wrapped up, one thing was clear: no matter the weather, our SCBWI members remain unwavering in their mission to share stories, inspire young readers, and support one another. We are proud of their resilience, creativity, and camaraderie—and we look forward to seeing what new chapters await at next year’s Festival.

The country’s largest literary event returns April 18–19, 2026—we hope to see you there! 

SCBWI-L.A. (l-r) volunteers Kumiko Yamada-Yuge and Kimberly Tso

For more fantastic content, community, events, and other professional development opportunities, become a member today! Not sure if there is a chapter in your area? Check here.

Jennifer is a proud SCBWI veteran who’s played nearly every role but mascot—LitMingle Coordinator, Mingle Meister, PAL Liaison—you name it. Along the way, she discovered her favorite job of all: cheering on fellow writers, a passion that earned her SCBWI’s Sue Alexander Service and Encouragement Award (SASE). Jennifer writes contemporary Middle Grade stories full of heart, humor, and a hint of mystery. She devours everything from picture books to YA, especially if it makes her laugh or keeps her guessing. Her writing roots go all the way back to childhood afternoons at the public library, which doubled as her happy place…and her big brother’s go-to babysitter.

SCBWI-SoCal photo by Ann Suk Wang. SCBWI-L.A. photos and SCBWI-L.A. / SCBWI-SoCal joint photo by Jennifer S. Pitts.