Portraits Capture Stars at LA Times Book Festival

Lionel Richie, Tina Knowles, and other top authors shine at annual literary event

Apr. 18, 2026 at 7:39pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shimmering sequins and plush velvet textures, using dramatic studio lighting to create a high-fashion, glamorous aesthetic that captures the energy and celebrity of the LA Times Festival of Books.Sparkling textures and dramatic lighting evoke the star-studded atmosphere of the LA Times Festival of Books.Los Angeles Today

The 31st annual LA Times Festival of Books, one of the country's biggest literary events, took place at USC this past weekend. Over 500 authors, including Lionel Richie, Tina Knowles, Larry David, Pat Benatar, Amy Tan, and Anne Lamott, participated in panel discussions and book signings. Several of these high-profile guests stopped by the LA Times photo studio to have their portraits taken between festival activities.

Why it matters

The LA Times Festival of Books is a major cultural event that celebrates the written word and brings together some of the most renowned authors and public figures. The festival's popularity and ability to draw such a star-studded lineup underscores the enduring appeal of books and literature in the digital age.

The details

The 31st annual LA Times Festival of Books featured over 500 authors participating in panel discussions, book signings, and other events across the USC campus. Several of the high-profile guests, including musicians Lionel Richie and Tina Knowles, comedians Larry David and Pat Benatar, and acclaimed novelists Amy Tan and Anne Lamott, took time to visit the LA Times photo studio for portrait sessions between festival activities.

  • The LA Times Festival of Books took place this past weekend (April 18-19, 2026).
  • The 31st annual edition of the festival was held at the University of Southern California (USC) campus.

The players

Lionel Richie

A legendary singer-songwriter who has had a decades-long career in music.

Tina Knowles

A fashion designer, businesswoman, and the mother of music superstars Beyoncé and Solange Knowles.

Larry David

A renowned comedian, writer, and actor known for creating the hit TV series 'Seinfeld' and starring in 'Curb Your Enthusiasm'.

Pat Benatar

A pioneering female rock singer who rose to fame in the 1980s with hits like 'Hit Me With Your Best Shot' and 'Love Is a Battlefield'.

Amy Tan

A best-selling author known for novels like 'The Joy Luck Club' that explore the Chinese-American experience.

Anne Lamott

A celebrated non-fiction writer whose books on faith, writing, and life have earned her a devoted following.

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What they’re saying

“It's always such a thrill to connect with readers and fellow book lovers at the Festival of Books. This event really celebrates the power of storytelling.”

— Amy Tan, Novelist

“The energy and enthusiasm of the crowds at the Festival never ceases to amaze me. It's a true testament to the enduring appeal of the written word.”

— Anne Lamott, Non-Fiction Author

The takeaway

The LA Times Festival of Books remains one of the premier literary events in the country, drawing thousands of book lovers and some of the biggest names in writing, music, and entertainment. The festival's ability to consistently attract such a star-studded lineup underscores the power and popularity of books and storytelling in the digital age.