The highly-anticipated L.A. Festival of Books is finally making its way back to USC’s campus in 2023, and book lovers across the city are gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend. Over 150,00 people are expected to flock to campus this weekend with over 300 exhibitions and more than 500 authors in attendance.

One of the highlights of the festival will undoubtedly be the presence of Leigh Bardugo, whose bestselling fantasy series "Shadow and Bone" and duology "Six of Crows" have been adapted into a popular Netflix series. Fans of the books and the show alike will have the opportunity to hear Bardugo speak at "The Outer Limits: Horror and Science Fiction" panel on Saturday at 1:30 p.m.

Another author who will be gracing the festival with their presence is Adam Silvera, the critically acclaimed writer behind the poignant and heartbreaking novel "They Both Die in the End." Silvera’s work has earned him a legion of fans and a reputation as one of the most talented voices in contemporary fiction. He will be speaking at the "Young Adult Fiction: Sexuality, Friendship and Queer Romance" panel on Saturday at 4:40 p.m.

But it’s not just about the books – the festival has always been about celebrating the culture of reading and the vibrant community that surrounds it. This year, festival-goers can expect to find a range of exciting events and activities, from author signings and book readings to live music performances and food trucks. There will even be a graffiti wall where people can write down and view each other’s current reads.

And it’s not just authors who will be in attendance; big-name celebrities have been announced as participants in the festival’s author panels. Pop star Meghan Trainor and "Friends" actor Matthew Perry will both be sharing their experiences with writing and publishing, and giving their perspectives on the importance of literature and storytelling.

Overall, this year’s L.A. Festival of Books promises to be a celebration of all things literary and culture, bringing together an incredible range of authors, public figures and book lovers from across the city and beyond. So mark your calendars, get your reading lists ready, and prepare to join the excitement.

For more information and a full event schedule, check out the Festival of Books website.