At the 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 at the University of Southern California campus, young author Gaellie Ulysse presented her novel Rollercoaster during a featured book signing and author interview at the MainSpring Books exhibit. The festival, one of the nation's premier literary gatherings, drew thousands of readers, educators, and families for a weekend of storytelling.
Rollercoaster follows Natasha Shadow, a young girl navigating bullying, heartbreak, the loss of her mother, and major family changes. Through her journey, Natasha forms meaningful friendships and bonds with a black Labrador named Crystal, discovering new possibilities for her future. The novel addresses experiences many children and teenagers face but may find difficult to discuss, offering reassurance that challenges can be overcome with support and that difficult circumstances can lead to growth.
During an interview, Gaellie shared how the book began as a school assignment and evolved into a published work. Motivated by a desire to help readers facing similar struggles, she crafted a story that emphasizes hope, perseverance, and the importance of finding support. Festival attendees responded warmly to the book's relatable themes, sparking conversations about empathy, resilience, and helping young people feel understood.
The appearance highlighted the growing impact of young voices in literature. Gaellie's story demonstrates how storytelling can encourage readers navigating their own challenges, reminding them that hope remains within reach. MainSpring Books, which supported Gaellie's participation, remains committed to authors whose work encourages understanding and resilience.
For more information, the book is available on Amazon, and an author interview can be viewed on YouTube.
