The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 at the University of Southern California, welcomed author Susan J. Romano to the MainSpring Books exhibit, where she introduced her new children's book, The Adventures of Lucas Henry. The event featured a book signing and author interview, drawing attendees from the diverse audience of readers, educators, and families gathered at one of the nation's largest literary festivals.
Based on the real-life experiences of Romano's grandson, Lucas Henry, the book chronicles a series of adventures from birth through his first year. It combines playful rhymes, repetitive language, and vibrant illustrations created from actual family photographs, designed to engage early readers while celebrating the wonder of everyday experiences. The story highlights the special role families play in shaping childhood experiences and reminds readers that exploration can be found in both extraordinary moments and daily life.
During her interview, Romano shared that the book began as a family effort to preserve cherished memories. 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.
Attendees at the festival learned how the book combines authentic family experiences with imaginative visual storytelling. The accessible language and colorful illustrations make it 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.
MainSpring Books, the publisher, is dedicated to helping authors share their stories with readers worldwide through publishing, promotion, media opportunities, and literary event participation. The company connects authors with new audiences and meaningful platforms to expand the reach and impact of compelling literary works.
