Dr. Barbara ten Brink Highlights Educational Themes at LA Times Festival of Books

What Happened

Dr. Barbara ten Brink participated in the 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held at the University of Southern California. Represented by MainSpring Books, she showcased her latest children's title, Miss Claus and Her Pandas.

The event provided a platform for the author to engage with educators, parents, and young readers. Her session focused on the core themes of her series, which emphasizes teamwork and individual contribution.

During her interview, ten Brink explained how her writing incorporates problem-solving and social development. She aims to provide children with narratives that foster empathy and confidence alongside entertainment.

The Core Points

Dr. Barbara ten Brink featured at the 2026 LA Times Festival of Books.
Presented her new children's book, Miss Claus and Her Pandas.
Focused on teaching children about teamwork, inclusion, and problem-solving.
Advocated for stories that blend entertainment with practical life skills.
MainSpring Books managed the author's appearance and event participation.

Context in 60 Seconds

The children's publishing sector is increasingly prioritizing works that balance narrative engagement with social-emotional learning (SEL). As educational standards evolve, parents and teachers are actively seeking literature that functions as a tool for teaching critical life skills, such as inclusion and collaborative conflict resolution.

Literary festivals continue to serve as essential hubs for this trend, acting as a bridge between authors and the communities that utilize these books in classroom and home environments.

Bottom Line

Dr. ten Brink’s work reflects a growing demand for children's literature that integrates practical life lessons with character-driven storytelling to support social and emotional development.

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