Susan J. Romano, a VIP author at the 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, introduced her children's book The Adventures of Lucas Henry during a featured book signing and author interview on April 18–19 at the University of Southern California campus. The festival, one of the nation's largest literary gatherings, brought together readers, educators, families, and authors to explore 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 to engage early readers while celebrating everyday wonders. 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 their own adventures.
During her author interview, Romano credited her daughter, Gabriela, whose dedication to creating meaningful experiences during Lucas's first year became the story's foundation. 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 on YouTube.
The significance of this announcement lies in how it transforms personal family memories into a tool for early childhood literacy and bonding. By showcasing the book at a major literary festival, Romano underscores the value of everyday adventures in shaping a child's development. The story not only entertains but also reminds families that exploration can be found in both extraordinary moments and daily life, encouraging parents to actively engage with their children's curiosity.
