LOS ANGELES — At the 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 on the University of Southern California campus, VIP Author Susan J. Romano introduced readers to The Adventures of Lucas Henry during a book signing and author interview at the MainSpring Books exhibit. The book, inspired by the real-life experiences of Romano's grandson, Lucas Henry, chronicles his first year of exploration and growth through playful rhymes, repetitive language, and vibrant illustrations created from actual family photographs.
The festival, one of the nation's largest literary gatherings, attracted 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 early discoveries. 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 adventures in everyday life. The narrative highlights the special role families play in shaping childhood experiences, reminding readers that exploration can be found in both extraordinary moments and routine activities.
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. 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. 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 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 online.
