LOS ANGELES — The 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 at the University of Southern California, featured author Jason Hauger at the MainSpring Books booth, where he participated in book signings and an exclusive interview. The festival, one of the nation's premier literary events, draws thousands of readers and authors annually to celebrate storytelling. Hauger's debut, MARNA: Book 1, tells the story of David, a lonely elementary school student who befriends a magical butterfly-winged girl named Marna. Together, they navigate adventures that explore courage, friendship, forgiveness, and the difficulty of letting go.
Hauger's inspiration for the book dates back to a childhood creative writing assignment, later rekindled during a trip to Bonaire, a Caribbean island. This personal connection infuses the narrative with authenticity, making the themes of bravery and kindness resonate with young readers. The story also incorporates a strong environmental message: monarch butterfly conservation. During his festival interview, Hauger emphasized the importance of creating butterfly-friendly habitats, adding an educational layer to the fantasy. An author interview available on YouTube delves deeper into these themes.
The festival offered attendees a chance to engage directly with Hauger, learning about his creative process and the book's dual focus on personal growth and ecological awareness. The event also highlighted the role of literary festivals in connecting authors with diverse audiences. For more information about Hauger and his work, visit his author website.
