The 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 on the University of Southern California campus, featured a presentation by author Susan J. Romano, who introduced her children’s book The Adventures of Lucas Henry at the MainSpring Books exhibit. The book, inspired by the real-life experiences of Romano’s grandson, chronicles a series of adventures from birth through his first year, using playful rhymes and illustrations based on family photographs.
Festival attendees learned how the book combines authentic family experiences with imaginative visual storytelling to create an engaging reading experience for young children. The narrative highlights the special role families play in shaping childhood experiences while reminding readers that exploration can be found in both extraordinary moments and everyday life.
During her author interview, Romano shared that the book began as a family effort to preserve cherished memories and evolved into a story encouraging young readers to embrace curiosity. She credited her daughter, Gabriela, whose dedication to creating meaningful experiences during Lucas’s first year became the foundation for the story. Through daily adventures and shared discoveries, the family created memories that now serve as an invitation for other families to explore, learn, and grow together.
The colorful illustrations and accessible language make the story particularly appealing for emerging readers, while its 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 a company dedicated to helping authors share their stories through publishing, promotion, and literary event participation. By connecting authors with new audiences, the company helps expand the reach and impact of compelling literary works. The festival, one of the nation’s largest literary gatherings, welcomed readers, educators, families, and authors from diverse backgrounds to explore stories that inspire learning, creativity, and connection.
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