Los Angeles Times Festival of Books...Jamie Lee Curtis & Rainn Wilson on stage today! Bookworms descend on USC!

 

Jada Pinkett Smith @ Festival of Books!

A few weeks ago, I posted a feature on the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, which is an annual event book-lovers look forward to with great anticipation each year.


Post: 04/06/2011

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2011/04/los-angles-times-festival-of-booksrainn.html
Fortunately, school children from Orange County tweeted me this week, which jogged my memory at the 11th Hour.

Yes, kids!

You will see me at  Book Fair tomorrow strolling around USC campus with my eye out for bargains and news scoops to report on at "The Tattler".

Thanks for the reminder, eh?

For readers at "The Tattler" who may have forgotten that the event runs today (April 30th) thru Sunday (May 1st), I have posted a run-down of the panel discussions and stage events that will be underway as this very post is published on the world-wide-web a few seconds from now.

See 'ya there, eh?

Target Children’s Stage

10:00 AM

The Okee Dokee Brothers
Take it Outside

10:40 AM

Bob Boyle
Author of Hugo and the Really Really Really Long String

11:00 AM

Mallory Lewis and Lamb Chop

11:20 AM

Jamie Lee Curtis
Author of My Mommy Hung the Moon

11:45 AM

Hip Hop Harry
Party Jams

12:20 PM

Tom Lichtenheld
Illustrator of Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site

12:40 PM

Peter Stein
Author of Cars Galore!

1:00 PM

Dallas Clayton
Author and Illustrator of An Awesome Book!

1:25 PM

Disney Junior’s Choo-Choo Soul with Genevive
Choo-Choo Soul

2:00 PM

Marc Brown
Author of Arthur Turns Green

2:20 PM

Nancy Krulik
Author of George Brown, Class Clown: Super Burp #1
Katie Kazoo Switcheroo Series

2:40 PM

R.L. Stine
Author of Goosebumps Horrorland: Hall of Horrors

3:00 PM

Megan McDonald
Author of Judy Moody and Stink series

3:25 PM

Moona Luna
Piñata Party

4:00 PM

Lisa Yee
Author of American Girl Book,Aloha, Kanani

4:20 PM

Jarrett J. Krosoczka
Author and Illustrator of The Lunch Lady Graphic Novel Series

4:40 PM

Josh Lewis
Author of Super Chicken Nugget Boy
(vs. Ned-Grant and his Eggplant Army)

5:10 PM

Justin Roberts & the Not Ready for Naptime Players
Jungle Gym

Los Angeles Times Stage

11:00 AM

Rainn Wilson
Interviewed by Amy Alkon
Author of SoulPancake

12:10 AM

Stefanie Powers
Author of One from the Hart

1:20 PM

Jillian Michaels
Interviewed by Rene Lynch
Author of Unlimited: How to Build an Exceptional Life

2:30 PM

Danica McKellar
Author of Hot X: Algebra Exposed

3:40 PM

Alison Arngrim
Author of Confessions of a Prairie Bitch

4:50 PM

Sister Souljah
Interviewed by Jada Pinkett Smith
Author of Midnight and the Meaning of Love

USC Stage

10:00 AM

Festival Kickoff with the Trojan Marching Band
Musical Performance
Welcome by Los Angeles Times Publisher Eddy Hartenstein
USC President C.L. Max Nikias

11:40 PM

Funny But True Hosted by Prince Gomolvilas
Storytelling-Based Performance

12:50 PM

Greg Johnson Quartet
Jazz Performance

2:00 PM

Javon Johnson
Spoken Word Performance

3:10 PM

Rozzi Crane
Popular Music Performance

4:20 PM

Second Nature Improv
Comedic Performance

5:30 PM

Bear Attack
Popular Music Performance

Cooking Stage

11:00 AM

Erin McKenna
Author of BabyCakes Covers the Classics
Cooking Demonstration

12:30 PM

Graham Kerr
Author of Growing at the Speed of Life
Cooking Demonstration

2:00 PM

Bob Blumer
Author of Glutton for Pleasure
Cooking Demonstration

3:30 PM

Laurie David & Kristin Uhrenholdt
Authors of The Family Dinner
Cooking Demonstration

YA Stage

11:00 AM

Brave NewWorlds: Writing the Unreal
Panelists:
Andrew Smith, Allyson Condie, Laura McNeal, Tom McNeal
Moderator:
Aaron Hartzler

12:30 PM

Smells Like Teen Spirit: Young Adult Fiction
Panelists:
Lisi Harrison, Joanna Philbin, Elizabeth Eulberg, Abby McDonald
Moderator:
Aaron Hartzler

2:00 PM

The Practical & the Powerful: Writing Fantasy or Keeping it Real
Panelists:
Robin Benway, Gayle Forman, Gennifer Choldenko, Allen Zadoff
Moderator:
Cecil Castellucci

3:30 PM

Picture This: Graphic Novels
Panelists:
Kazu Kibuishi, Tracy White, Deborah Vankin
Moderator:
Aaron Hartzler

5:00 PM

LAYAPALOOZA!
A live game show for:
Lovers of books for teens & tweens

Poetry Stage

10:00 A.M.

Rick Bursky & Majid Naficy read from:
Death Obscura and Father & Son

10:30 AM

Chase Twichell reads from:
Horses Where the Answers Should Have Been

11:00 AM

Daniel Tiffany reads from:
Privado and The Dandelion Clock

11:30 AM

Annie Finch reads from:
Among the Goddesses: An Epic Libretto in Seven Dreams

12:00 PM

Terese Svoboda reads from Weapons Grade

12:30 PM

Amy Newlove Schroeder & Dorothy Barresi read from:
The Sleep Hotel and American Fanatics

1:00 PM

Beckian Goldberg & Sarah Maclay read from:
Reliquary Fever: New and Selected Poems and Music for the Black Room

1:30 PM

Dana Levin reads from Sky Burial

2:00 PM

Henri Cole reads from:
Pierce the Skin: Selected Poems (1982—2007)

2:30 PM

Ed Roberson reads from:
To See the Earth Before the End of the World

3:00 PM

Craig Santos Perez reads from:
From Unincorporated Territory {Saina}

3:30 PM

Carol Muske-Dukes Hosts Various Poets reading from:
Crossing State Lines: An American Renga

4:00 PM

Laure-Anne Bosselaar reads from A New Hunger

4:30 PM

Atsuro Riley reads from Romey’s Order

5:00 PM

Ellyn Maybe and Her Band perform from:
Rodeo for the Sheepish and Other Works

Etc. Stage

10:00 AM

826LA
Student Author Panel:
A reading, discussion and signing with students ages 6-18

11:00 AM

Dime Stories
Three-minute stories read by Various Artists

12:00 PM

Imagine Ireland
A selection of non-fiction writers from:
Ireland by Molly McCloskey and Brian Dillon

1:00 PM

Murphy’s Flaw
Blue Grass Musical Performance

2:00 PM

Brand X LA Unheard Presents Young Hunting
Musical Performance

3:00 PM

The Hero Complex Presents Quizzam! Hosted by Geoff Boucher
Comics Trivia Contest

3:30 PM

Andrew Breitbart in Conversation with Robin Abcarian
PANEL CODE: 1092
Interviewer:
Ms. Robin Abcarian

4:00 PM

Zack Cole
Musical Performance

5:00 PM

PEN Center USA
Emerging Voices Reading

Discover the World

11:00 AM

Irish Writers Sara Berkeley and Peter Sirr

Poetry Readings

12:00 PM

Korea Presents Ji Yoon Jay Lee Byung Sang
Traditional Korean Musical Performance

1:00 PM

Israel Presents:
“Israel in Los Angeles A bond between communities”
Video Presentation

2:00 PM

Irish Writers Mary O’Donoghue and Kevin Power
Fiction Readings

3:00 PM

Korea Presents Kim Eung Hwa Dance Academy
Traditional Korean Dance Performance

4:00 PM

Los Angeles Times Presents Don Bartletti
My Camera as Witness to a Non-Fiction World

Hoy Stage

10:00 AM

Welcoming Celebration

11:00 AM

STAR Program
Dance Performance

12:00 PM

Mariachi Cielo Nuevo
Musical Performance

1:00 PM

Hoy Spanish Spelling Bee Finals
Category 1

2:00 PM

Salt Petal
Musical Performance

3:00 PM

A Vivir Bien
Panel Discussion

4:00 PM

Rock STAR
Musical Performance

http://www.latimes.com/festivalofbooks.com

http://www.thetattler.biz

Los Angeles Times Festival of Books...Rainn Wilson, Jamie Lee Curtis, Patrick Oswalt to appear!

Book lovers are gearing up for another fantastic year at the annual Festival of Books sponsored by the local Los Angeles Times.

But, before they trot off, they'd better take note that the much-anticipated event - which attracts thousands of book worms each year - has switched venues.

Uh-huh!

A few celebrities such as - health guru Jamie Lee Curtis, actor Rainn Wilson, comic Patrick Oswalt, and rocker Pattie Smith (to name a few) - are also scheduled to push pet projects near-and-dear to their hearts and toss meet-and-greets with a fan or two as well.

I met Rainn on the red carpet of the premiere of his hilarious comedy - The Rocker - over a year ago in Las Vegas and he does not disappoint. 

He's quick on the uptake, alright!

Patrick Oswalt, who hosted a Film Fest at the New Beverly Cinema in Hollywood in recent years, is also a fine comic who has the ability to crack folks up with rapid-fire jokes without much effort.

The Nation's largest Literary Fest (admission is free) opted for a change of scenery this year - and moved the whole dang kit 'n kaboodle - to the University of Spoiled Children (USC).

That other University - where the popular fest was previously held in recent years - must be hot under the collar for losing the popular gig, eh?

As usual, though, enthusiasts of the written word, families of-all-sexual-persuasions - and Angelenos from all walks-of-life - will be exploring the extensive offerings with wonder once again when the end of the month rolls around on campus.

In addition to the reams of publications that will be on the shelves (and ready to be snapped up), the two-day event will be sprinkled with celebrity appearances, live stage music, practical (and exotic) cooking demonstrations, book signings and insightful and informative Q & A's.

Seven outdoor stages are slated to be erected in the center of USC's campus to accommodate the guest artists, their adoring fans, and Joe Public.

Program highlights include the Target Children's Stage ( with Mo Willems, Jamie Lee Curtis, Mallory Lewis and Lambchop, The Okee Dokee Brothers and R.L.Stine), the Cooking Stage (featuring Duff Goldman from "Ace of Cakes" and master chef Thomas Keller), the YA stage (graced with young luminaries such as Gayle Forman, Judy M. Blundell and D.J. McHale), and The Times editorial staff (who will be involved in hands-on discussions sporadically throughout the weekend on the Los Angeles Times Stage and Pavilion).

GENERAL EVENT INFORMATION

latimesfestivalofbooks.com

1-800-LA-TIMES, ext. 7BOOK

Attendees must secure tickets beforehand to attend panel discussions and lectures due to limited seating.

Writer's workshop tickets and $30 panel passes will be available on a first-come first-serve basis on April 11th (Monday) at 9 a.m.

Individual panel tickets will be available on April 24th (Sunday) for a nominal fee.

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books is presented in association with USC, presenting sponsor Target, major sponsors Buick and GMC and official ticketing provider Eventbrite.

See 'ya there!

http://www.thetattler.biz

Travel with Gannon and Wyatt...young adventurers boast show on Discover!

As I half-turned to check out a couple of booths at the Los Angeles Festival of Books over the weekend, I suddenly spied two young boys - all suited up in western-style garb - and leather de rigueur cowboy hats.

Somehow, the image they projected smacked of the Indiana Jones character featured in Steven Spielberg's successful action-adventure series.

The two brothers - Gannon & Wyatt - gazed out from behind a counter in a picturesque tent - where eye-catching publicity shots of their mugs (in captivating locales in the wilds) were inclined to catch the attention of passers-by.

In fact, a few excited teen-age girls were anxious to have one slick poster - beautifully-crafted - autographed by the young male cuties.

When I queried the intriguing duo about their booth, they explained that they had a web site, where they logged day-to-day events of their travels to local, exotic, and foreign lands.

The site is a well-designed entertaining entry into the blogosphere!

Once you land on their web site, a twin-prop airplane, roars across the screen.

Then, an introduction springs to life, with information on the two eager adventurers.

In the tradition of Lewis & Clark, Dr. David Livingstone &  Captain James Cook - "Travels with Gannon and Wyatt" - offers up the Wheeler's detailed journals for interested web cruisers to feast upon.

From Africa to the South Pacific, these twin brothers have traveled to all corners of the globe, their bio goes on to report.

The journals, photographs and videos compiled on those expeditions provide the foundation for an action-packed - fun - educational series they noted would probably be appearing on the Discover Channel in the fall.

Take a gander!

Info:  http://www.travelswithgannonandwyatt.com/

http://www.thetattler.biz

Los Angeles Times Festival of Books...Omar J. Dorsey's vulgar language upsets parents! John Heard mesmerizing...

What's the big deal?

(Cederling Fox candid moment)

John Heard mesmerizing!

A "Word Theatre" presentation started off light and innocent enough on the - etc. stage - late this afternoon at the Los Angeles Festival of Books on the UCLA campus.

For example, Tess Harper read a delightful piece of literature about a relationship between a mother and son, which was well-received by the rapt audience.

But, the live stage performance turned ugly when actor Omar J. Dorsey (Blind Side) stood before the mic, and suddenly began hurling shocking expletives in all their vulgar capacity into the theatre space.

The reaction from some parents was swift and severe.

"There are children here, you mother****er!

Instead of taking a moment to admit the inappropriateness of the material - or apolgoize - Mr. Dorsey proceeded to exhibit a disturbing lack of sensitivity.

What was his angry response?

"Forget about it!

He plunged on unphased.

I was stunned, frankly.

When Cederly Fox, the Artistic Director for "Word Theatre" returned to the stage at the end of the actor's reading, I was on the edge of my seat.

Would she ignore the incident?

"Sorry about the expletives," she grimmaced.

Then, without skipping-a-beat, she uttered up a comment that put the spotlight on her lack of professionalism.

"But, it's an adult show," she shrugged in defense.

What an arrogant bit**!

Her flimsy excuse, in view of the circumstances, was total bullsh**.

For example, the show was presented on a main stage at the entrance to the UCLA campus.
four in the afternoon, the questionable material was being broadcast over a handful of speakers, and falling on the ears of Festival guests (largely comprised of parents and children) a hundred-or-so feet in all directions (at a minimum).

Notwithstanding, it should be noted that there weren't any notices posted - warning parents that the "adult material" (as Fox described it) - might not be suitable for children.

The fact the dizzy broad thought that Dorsey's blue performance was acceptable (duh!) underscored that the inexperienced low-life has no common sense, all the intelligence of a worm, and a lack of discernment in respect to artistic license in a given setting.

I trust that the Los Angeles Times will review tomorrow's material, and weed out unacceptable language, to ensure young children and their parents are not subjected to this kind of filth again.
Obviously, the organizers of - "etc. stage" - aren't going to bother!

As a major sponsor, the daily newspaper owes that to the community, in my estimation.
In spite of the Dorsey shocker, the event ended on an upbeat note.

John Heard, one of my favorite actors, mesmerized the audience with his interpretation of a piece on "crows".

In contrast the other actors, Mr. Heard's style was natural and believable.

In fact, with great ease, he managed to give the impression that he was in a private conversation with each and every member of the audience.

His relaxed, easy-going approach to the hilarious literature, was certainly bang on.

Few actors - Richard Burton was one - are capable of accomplishing that in one fell swoop!


As to the rest of the Festival, well, it was a high point of my week.

I will be reporting on some of the events in a post later this evening.

For those of you planning to attend tomorrow (Sunday) I have some tips on where to purchase reasonably-priced snacks and drinks (lemonade on the main concourse goes for $5.00 pop!) for those on a budget.

There will be info on which booths are giving out free books.

And, a run-down on stage performances in the line-up tomorrow.

Los Angeles Opera (free!) anyone?

Later!

Omar's vulgar language incited anger at family outing.

Omar's vulgar language angered parents at family outing!

http://www.thetattler.biz

Los Angeles Times Festival of Books...free LA Opera show! Hit with local book-lovers!

To many, Los Angeles is viewed as a cultural wasteland, but you wouldn't know it by scanning the throngs of locals teaming into the 15th annual Festival of Books at UCLA campus!

Unlike most events, the folks in attendance here, hail from many walks of life with one common interest.

A good read!

Today, thousands poured over book bins in search of literary treasures, waited patiently in lines to meet celebrated authors under the intense mid-day sun, and elbowed their way through packed concourses to attend enlightening panel discussions on a wide range of topics.

This year, the Festival excitedly launched a YA stage!

When I sauntered by around two in the afternoon, popular writers from the Vampire Horror Genre, were settling into an entertaining discussion on the topic with fans sprawled out on the lawn across a wide expanse.

Under another tent, Los Angeles Times writers were about to enter into an insightful talk on their favorite authors.

The literature was far-reaching in scope - ranging from the highly radical (Revolution Newspaper) to the spiritually-driven (beautifully bound collections on Eastern Philosophy and religion).

In fact, a Buddhist organization was handing out free copies of the teachings of various Masters with titles like "The Awakening of Compassion & Wisdom" and "Everything we do Matters."

An Islamic group was offering up translated versions of the Al-Quran for free!

I snapped up the "Bible" of the Middle-Eastern world which focuses on the teachings of Mohammed.

Now, I'd be able to fathom the controversy over the "South Park" incident, I expect.

A Trader Joe's cookbook - signed - was flying out of the kitchen at $10.00 a pop (no tax).

Excited readers were scouring bargain-basement bins for books priced at 5 bucks or less.

If you're heading to the festival tomorrow, it may be wise to wear sensible walking shoes.

Once the guests have braved their way through endless concourses and tented booths on the lower level, the adventurous, will trek up one-hundred steps (on a steep incline) to the top level where a food court, specialty booths, and the Hero Complex alley await.

A  floppy hat, to shield from the intense afternoon rays, may be a good idea too.

On the subject of food, take note that the wide selection of treats, are not cheap.

I did manage to purchase 2 sweet vegetarian rolls at Panda Express for $2.50.

Although the portions were small, the finger food was scrumptious.

That was a rarity.

For the most part entrees run at $7.00 - $10.00.

And, softdrinks, are commanding prices of $3.75 (and up).

What an outrage!

On the main concourse, perky teens are flogging lemonade at $5.00 a cup.

A tip for the budget-wise?

Just off the main thoroughfare, you'll be able to locate vending machines, where a can of pineapple juice may be purchased for seventy-five cents. 

Cokes and Gatorade are priced at $1.00 to $2.00.

Just across the courtyard from the Research Library, there is a spacious picnic area with a multitude of tables and chairs, where you can take lunch.

In the vending machines, there are light snacks like burritos and mini-pizzas, and a microwave to heat 'em up in a matter of seconds.

Tomorrow, you may want to take in a live performance by the Los Angeles Opera near the front entrance of UCLA Campus on the popular "etc. stage".

Check the festival website for a detailed run-down of all the artists slated to perform on a handful of stage around the festive grounds.

Info:  http://events.latimes.com/festivalofbooks/

http://www.thetattler.biz

Festival of Books...Omar J. Dorsey's foul language angers audience! John Heard reading mesmerizing..

What's the big deal?

(Cederling Fox candid moment)

  

John Heard mesmerized!

A "Word Theatre" presentation started off light and innocent enough on the - etc. stage - late this afternoon at the Los Angeles Festival of Books on the UCLA campus.

For example, Tess Harper read a delightful piece of literature about a relationship between a mother and son, which was well-received by the rapt audience.

But, the live stage performance turned ugly when actor Omar J. Dorsey (Blind Side) stood before the mic, and suddenly began hurling shocking expletives in all their vulgar capacity into the theatre space.

The reaction from some parents was swift and severe.

"There are children here, you mother****er!"

Instead of taking a moment to admit the inappropriateness of the material - or apolgoize - Mr. Dorsey proceeded to exhibit a disturbing lack of sensitivity.

What was his angry response?

"Forget about it!"

He plunged on unphased.

I was stunned, frankly.

When Cederly Fox, the Artistic Director for "Word Theatre" returned to the stage at the end of the actor's  reading, I was on the edge of my seat.

Would she ignore the incident?

"Sorry about the expletives," she grimmaced.

Then, without skipping-a-beat, she uttered up a comment that put the spotlight on her lack of professionalism.

"But, it's an adult show," she shrugged in defense.

What an arrogant bit**!

Her flimsy excuse, in view of the circumstances, was total bullsh**.

For example, the show was presented on a main stage at the entrance to the UCLA campus.

At four in the afternoon, the questionable material was being broadcast over a handful of speakers, and falling on the ears of Festival guests (largely comprised of parents and children) a hundred-or-so feet in all directions (at a minimum).

Notwithstanding, it should be noted that there weren't any notices posted - warning parents that the "adult material" (as Fox described it) - might  not be suitable for children.

The fact the dizzy broad thought that Dorsey's  blue performance was acceptable (duh!) underscored that the inexperienced low-life has no common sense, all the intelligence of a worm, and a lack of discernment in respect to artistic license in a given setting.

I trust that the Los Angeles Times will review tomorrow's material, and weed out unacceptable language, to ensure young children and their parents are not subjected to this kind of filth again.

Obviously, the organizers of - "etc. stage" - aren't going to bother!

As a major sponsor, the daily newspaper owes that to the community, in my estimation.

In spite of the Dorsey shocker, the event ended on an upbeat note.

John Heard, one of my favorite actors, mesmerized the audience with his  interpretation of a piece on "crows".

In contrast the other actors, Mr. Heard's style was natural and believable.

In fact, with great ease, he managed to give the impression that he was in a private conversation with each and every member of the audience.

His relaxed, easy-going approach to the hilarious literature, was certainly bang on.

Few actors - Richard Burton was one - are capable of accomplishing that in one fell swoop!

As to the rest of the Festival, well, it was a high point of my week.

I will be reporting on some of the events in a post later this evening.

For those of you planning to attend tomorrow (Sunday) I have some tips on where to purchase reasonably-priced snacks and drinks (lemonade on the main concourse goes for $5.00 pop!) for those on a budget.

There will be info on which booths are giving out free books!

And, a run-down on stage performances in the line-up tomorrow.

Los Angeles Opera (free!) anyone?

Later!

Omar's vulgar language incited anger at family outing!

http://www.thetattler.biz

Festival of Books...Carol Burnett & Carl Reiner appear! Panel Discussions! Kid stuff...

The ever-popular annual Festival of Books - sponsored by the daily Los Angeles Times - returns to UCLA campus this weekend.

Celebrity speakers - with books to plug - are already rustling up widespread interest.

For instance, Mary McNamara will chat with Carol Burnett at the Ackerman Grand Ballroom, about her biography - This Time Together - to the delight of her fans.

In addition, special panel discussions are bound to be packed to capacity.

So, it may be wise to get an early start, to ensure you land a seat under one of the many big tents that will dot the festive landscape.

After the talks, most festival authors will remain to sign books.

There is no requirement that a book be purchased at the fair, so sling your own tome from home!

Most of the events are free, so budget-minded book-lovers keen on a relaxing a few hours in a park-like setting, should take advantage of the golden opportunity.

Kids pinning 'ya down?

Take 'em along!

There is a separate area for the young ones - where stage shows (and entertaining amusements) - will keep them contented (and most certainly nurtured at the same time).

Slated to play in the Children's line-up on Saturday, for instance, is Nickelodeon's "The Fresh Beat Band" (10:00 a.m.)

Author Carl Reiner (comic) follows shortly thereafter at 11:00 a.m. with a scheduled reading of  "Tell me a Silly Story."

Later in the afternoon, Henry Winkler will be on hand, too (2:40 p.m.)

Hero Complex will make a splashy entrance at the Festival this year with a fine array of comic books, manga and graphic novel publishers, and a bevy of writers and distributors from the genre.

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books is the largest Literary Event in America today!

Info:  http://www.latimes.com/festivalofbooks

http://www.thetattler.biz/

LA Times Festival of Books...Michael J. Fox, Henry Winkler, Brook Shields, Gore Vidal, & Tori Spelling to appear! April 25th & 26th...

Well, if you're an autograph hound, or like to hang around celebrities, the Festival of Books kicking off this weekend at UCLA (April 25th & 26th) is apt to provide a lofty climb or two.

The big thrust, of course, is on a myriad of publications from all genres - from kids' illustrated books, to romantic novels, and rare comics - that will be artfully displayed in picturesque tents about the well-manicured grounds.

In addition, the spotlight will be tossed on a thought-provoking series of panel discussions, and high-profile celebrities who will be heading them up.

Got to lure John Doe in the gate, somehow, eh?

Well-known actors like Michael J. Fox (Back to the Future), the Blog Queen (Not Perez Hilton, silly) Arianna Huffington, and a handful of popular radio talk show hosts and columnists will all be touting something or other like snake-oil salesmen.

Like you, I'll be front-row-center, devouring all the delicious offerings.

Entrance to the Festival grounds is free.

Golly, a number of the panel discussions are gratis, too.

However, it is important to note that while a handful of tickets for indoor panel events are free, they must be picked up in advance at ticketmaster.

Drats!

Those blood-suckers are going to charge 75 cents a pop for each ticket scarfed up!

There will be six outdoor stages, as well, where in-your-face stars such as Tori Spelling (spoiled little rich girl, I expect), Maureen McCormick (Brady Bunch aficionado), and Oscar-Winning actress Cloris Leachman will kick up their heels.

Who knows, in view of the fact the Festival is strewn about such a wide expanse on UCLA campus, the seasoned pros may turn up in sensible walking shoes!

I'll cast a blind eye in that event, ladies!

The sponsors are reminding book-lovers and celebrity stalkers alike to drag along a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and bottles of hydrating water ((especially in view of the fact the mercury has been soaring in recent days).

See 'ya there!

Info: http://www.latimes.com/festivalofbooks

http://www.julianayrs.com

Los Angeles Times Festival of Books...is a family afffair with Snobbles, Disney Booth & Clifford the Big Red Dog! Brooke Shields to attend...

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books is not just a forum for old bookworms to nose their way through racks of stale old tomes in search of a good read!

In fact, there are a handful of stimulating wholesome events scheduled for next weekend for parents and kids alike, which are just right for a family outing on the weekend.

For example, authors Erika Gragg and Jason Dobkin will be on hand to sign their latest book (and publicity stills) from the latest "Snobbles" desert expedition to the Snooze patch!

In this lighthearted tale, Snobbles (a snake) and Scoot (a scorpion) set off on an new exciting adventure to save their friends from an evil mongoose

The book is beautifully illustrated (see for yourself!) and the tale itself is a real tongue-twister sure to captivate children of all ages.

Info: http://www.snobbles.com

Meanwhile, at Booth # 035, there will be special appearances by "Clifford" the Big Red Dog.

If you saunter by next week during the book fest, you'll be able to snap up a free Clifford book!



Also, families can win passes to an advance screening of Disney's new feature "UP" which opens in Theatres on Earth Day, April 22nd (2009).

Info: http://www.Disney.com/Up

But hold on to your horses, kids!

If you want to experience the "Battle for Terra", stop by Booth # 704, for a chance to enter a drawing to win an invite to a screening of the much-anticipated adventure in real D 3D.

Of course, the Target Children's Stage is back again this year with top performers, more yucks than you bargained for, and a host of educational activities and animated readings by a handful of the Nation's most popular authors (in the Family Zone!).

Celebrity writers slated to read and sign books include actor "Fonz" Henry Winkler, Brooke Shields, Sabrina Bryan of "Cheetah Girls", and Yeardley Smith, the voice of "Lisa Simpson" on "The Simpsons."

The "SqueeGees" will also perform songs, jokes, and interact with audiences in a show that focuses on the environment.

And, last but not least, kids visiting the Los Angeles Times Kids' Reading Room (situated near the Reading by 9 booth) will learn how to create a newspaper from scratch!

The Staff will discuss newsroom technology - at which point - all future journalists in the crowd, will have the opportunity to not only write articles and poems, but create eye-catching illustrations to spruce up their editorials and make 'em more personal.

See 'ya there!

Info: http://www.latimes.com/festivalofbooks

http://www.julianayrs.com

LA TIMES Festival of Books...cerebral event for bookish!

If you didn't make it down to the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival this weekend - then you have the option to take in a more cerebral event - the annual Festival of Books hosted by the LA TIMES at UCLA in Westwood.

Although the Festival is free, unless you park a few blocks away and are inclined to trek a bit on foot, parking will cost a staggering eight bucks. At the cost of gas today, maybe it would be wise to take the Metro or hitch a ride with a pal.

The Book fair has grown considerably over the years.

Amid the six outdoor stages of events to choose from, there will be music, cultural events, and cooking demonstrations.

A highlight will be a number of insightful panel discussions with celebrity hosts, readings by award-winning giants in the literary field, and book signings.

Some of the highlights include the following panel discussions:

Laughing in the Face of Death", with moderator Donna Rifkind (Panel 1011); The Literary Detective, with Sarah Weinman (Panel 1012); Death in Another Land, with Paula L. Woods (Panel 1013); Literature & Technology: Breaking the Mold, with David Kipen & Shelley Jackson (Panel 1021); Young Adult: Fantastic Fiction, with Jonathan Hunt (Panel 1022); Gay Talese with Tim Rutten(Panel 1032).

With 300 exhibitors on hand, you'd be wise to plan on spending the whole day. So, pack a lunch; or, trundle off to one of the trendy local eateries in Westwood when the old gut starts growling for grub.

For those without babysitters, two children's areas are sure to keep the young ones in tow enthralled with the world of make-believe, too.

Among the 450 or so authors to appear for in-depth discussions about their works, expect to mingle with keynote speakers like - Julie Andrews, Maria Shriver, Gore Vidal, Kenny Mayne, and Ray Bradbury - to name a few.

In fact, if you want to get a jump on the festivities, you may be inclined to take in tonight's event - the "Dinner with Authors" package.

The "28th Annual Los Angeles Times Book Prizes" Award Ceremony is being held at Royce Hall at UCLA in Westwood.

Attending authors include the "Master of Ceremonies" - Gay Talese - in addition to Maxine Hong Kingston, Tim Weiner, and Sherman Alexie.

The cost of admission ($65.00 a head) includes dinner, a prime ticket for the Awards Ceremony, and a parking pass.

To attend the award ceremony only will run 'ya about 18 smackeroos.

Nifty idea, eh?

Tickets for the event are limited - so hurry.

Info: latimesbookprizes.com