Inspiring Authors Uplift Readers at Literary Festival

Heartfelt works on faith, healing, and spiritual transformation featured at LA Times Festival of Books

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:03am

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An abstract, dreamlike image of blurred, colorful light and shadow, evoking a sense of warmth, wonder, and spiritual contemplation.The heartfelt messages of faith, hope, and renewal shared by authors at the LA Times Festival of Books aim to uplift and inspire readers seeking a deeper spiritual connection.Los Angeles Today

A diverse lineup of authors will share messages of hope, encouragement, and spiritual renewal at the upcoming Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. Featured writers include Altricia Black, whose book 'But God' offers redemption for survivors of trauma, and Keith A. Hartzler, whose 'Whispers on the Swing' invites readers to reconnect with childlike faith. Also presenting are Dr. Frances Houston Cuffie, David Collum, and Debra Lee Fader, whose works explore perseverance, spiritual guidance, and trusting God's direction through life's challenges.

Why it matters

This literary celebration provides a platform for faith-based authors to share uplifting stories that can offer inspiration, healing, and a deeper connection to spirituality for readers seeking encouragement and hope. The diverse perspectives represented reflect the power of storytelling to transcend individual experiences and speak to universal human needs.

The details

The featured authors will showcase their works at Booth #978 in the Black Zone during the two-day Los Angeles Times Festival of Books at the University of Southern California campus. Their books cover a range of spiritual themes, from Altricia Black's message of redemption for survivors of trauma to Keith A. Hartzler's reflections on embracing childlike faith. Other presenters include Dr. Frances Houston Cuffie, who emphasizes the transformative power of listening to God's voice, and David Collum, who provides practical guidance on strengthening one's sense of faith. Debra Lee Fader's memoir 'Walk By Faith With God As Your Compass' recounts her journey of surrendering a successful entertainment career to follow a greater calling.

  • The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books will take place on April 18-19, 2026.
  • Inks & Bindings will host the featured authors at Booth #978 in the Black Zone throughout the festival weekend.

The players

Altricia Black

The author of 'But God: (Been There, Done That, But God!),' which delivers an uplifting message of redemption and restoration for those carrying the burdens of trauma, shame, and emotional pain. Black serves as an Elder at Church of the Living God House of Prayer Ministries and has devoted much of her life to ministry and spiritual leadership.

Keith A. Hartzler

The author of 'Whispers on the Swing,' a heartfelt and imaginative reflection on embracing childlike faith and developing a more authentic relationship with God. Hartzler's work encourages readers to approach faith with renewed openness, trust, and confidence.

Dr. Frances Houston Cuffie

The author of 'Thresholds to Greater Glory,' a spiritually empowering work centered on perseverance, divine guidance, and the transformative power of listening to God's voice. Dr. Cuffie is an empowerment specialist with over fifty years of ministry experience and serves as chief prelate for the United Church Fellowship International Conference.

David Collum

The author of 'Developing Your Sense of Faith,' a practical spiritual guide designed to help readers better understand, strengthen, and activate the faith God has placed within them. Collum is a retired pastor with twenty-five years of ministry experience and a Doctor of Ministry graduate from Liberty University.

Debra Lee Fader

The author of the inspiring memoir 'Walk By Faith With God As Your Compass,' a moving account of surrender, reinvention, and trusting God's direction through life's unexpected turns. Fader is an internationally awarded entertainer, former mayor, and founder of multiple organizations dedicated to kindness, leadership, and community service.

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What they’re saying

“Pain does not define their future and that transformation from victimhood to victory is possible through God's grace.”

— Altricia Black, Author

“Encourages believers to rediscover the beauty of spiritual exploration through simple, honest communication.”

— Keith A. Hartzler, Author

“Strength, deliverance, and peace can be found through deeper communion with God and steadfast trust in His Word.”

— Dr. Frances Houston Cuffie, Author

What’s next

Attendees are warmly invited to visit Booth #978 in the Black Zone throughout the April 18–19 festival weekend to explore these featured titles in person, while readers everywhere can also browse the full Inks & Bindings collection online through the company's website.

The takeaway

This literary celebration showcases the power of faith-based storytelling to provide inspiration, healing, and spiritual renewal for readers seeking encouragement and a deeper connection to their beliefs. The diverse perspectives represented reflect the universal human need for hope, strength, and guidance during life's challenges.