The 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 at the University of Southern California campus, featured author Susan J. Romano at the MainSpring Books exhibit, where she introduced her children's book 'The Adventures of Lucas Henry' through a book signing and author interview. The festival, one of the nation's largest literary gatherings, brought together readers, educators, families, and authors to explore stories that inspire learning and creativity.
'The Adventures of Lucas Henry' is based on the real-life experiences of Romano's grandson, chronicling his first year of life through a series of adventures. The book uses playful rhymes, repetitive language, and vibrant illustrations created from actual family photographs, designed to engage early readers while celebrating everyday wonder. What began as a family effort to preserve cherished memories evolved into a story that encourages young readers to embrace curiosity and seek out their own adventures.
During her interview, Romano credited her daughter, Gabriela, whose dedication to creating meaningful experiences during Lucas's first year became the foundation for the story. The narrative highlights the special role families play in shaping childhood experiences and reminds readers that exploration can be found in both extraordinary moments and daily life. Festival attendees learned how the book combines authentic family experiences with imaginative visual storytelling to create an engaging reading experience for young children.
The book is available on Amazon, and more information can be found on the author's website. An author interview is also available online. MainSpring Books, the publishing and marketing company behind the book, helps authors share their stories through publishing, promotion, and literary event participation.
The festival's inclusive atmosphere allowed 'The Adventures of Lucas Henry' to resonate with many attendees, as its themes of curiosity and exploration appeal across generations. By turning precious family memories into a book, Romano has created a tool for parents and educators to inspire young children to find adventure in their own lives.
