The 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 at the University of Southern California campus, featured a touching presentation by VIP Author Susan J. Romano at the MainSpring Books exhibit. Romano introduced her children's book The Adventures of Lucas Henry, a story based on the real-life experiences of her grandson, Lucas Henry. The book chronicles a series of adventures from birth through his first year, using playful rhymes, repetitive language, and vibrant illustrations created from actual family photographs.
The festival, one of the nation's largest literary gatherings, welcomed readers, educators, families, and authors from diverse backgrounds. Among the titles showcased, The Adventures of Lucas Henry resonated deeply with attendees for its endearing portrayal of a child's first year of exploration and growth. 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.
Romano shared the inspiration behind the book during an author interview, crediting her daughter Gabriela for the dedication to creating meaningful experiences during Lucas's first year. What began as a family effort to preserve cherished memories evolved into a children's book that encourages young readers to embrace curiosity and seek out adventures of their own. The book combines authentic family experiences with imaginative visual storytelling, making it particularly appealing for emerging readers while its themes of curiosity and exploration resonate across generations.
The event provided an opportunity for festival attendees to learn how the book was developed and to engage with Romano directly during a featured book signing. The colorful illustrations and accessible language make The Adventures of Lucas Henry a valuable tool for early literacy development. The book is available on Amazon, and more information can be found on the author's website. A recorded author interview is also available for those who want to hear Romano discuss the story behind the book.
