The 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18-19 at the University of Southern California campus, saw the presentation of "The Adventures of Lucas Henry" by VIP Author Susan J. Romano at the MainSpring Books exhibit. The event, one of the nation's largest literary gatherings, featured a book signing and author interview that drew attendees interested in stories that inspire learning, creativity, and connection.
Based on the real-life experiences of Romano's grandson, Lucas Henry, the book chronicles his adventures from birth through his first year. It uses playful rhymes, repetitive language, and vibrant illustrations created from actual family photographs. The narrative is designed to engage early readers while celebrating the wonder of everyday experiences. According to the author, the book evolved from a family effort to preserve cherished memories into a work 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 family's daily adventures and shared discoveries now serve as an invitation for other families to explore, learn, and grow together. Festival attendees learned how the book combines authentic family experiences with imaginative visual storytelling to create an engaging reading experience for young children. The colorful illustrations and accessible language make it particularly appealing for emerging readers, while themes of curiosity and exploration resonate across generations.
The book is available on Amazon, and more information can be found on the author's website. An author interview is also available on YouTube. MainSpring Books, the publisher, is dedicated to helping authors share their stories through publishing, promotion, media opportunities, and literary event participation.
