In this Author POV, we highlight Laura Stegman's Summer of L.U.C.K. trilogy, a middle-grade series blending magical adventures with the real-world challenges of growing up. Set at a summer camp and its mysterious carnival, the three books follow friends Darby, Naz, and Justin as they navigate friendship, fear, bullying, self-acceptance, and finding their voices.
Beginning with Summer of L.U.C.K. and continuing through Ready or Not and The Chambered Nautilus, the trilogy combines coming-of-age storytelling with a touch of magic and the guidance of a friendly ghost named Leroy Usher. Written for readers ages 8–12, the series explores perseverance, compassion, courage, honesty, and belonging while reassuring young readers that they aren't alone in the challenges they face.
Can you introduce your book for librarians who may be discovering it for the first time?
Hello! I'm the author of a middle grade trilogy of books from Young Dragons Press, all set at a summer camp. Summer of L.U.C.K. (2022) introduces Darby (11), Naz (10), and Justin (12), three struggling kids who find their way to self-acceptance with the help of Leroy Usher, a ghost who haunts a magical carnival. Ready or Not (2023) spins more magical adventures with the three friends and the ghostly Mr. Usher, but it spotlights Justin (13), who faces a tricky real-life choice: stand up to bigotry or let fear hold him back. In The Chambered Nautilus (2024), Justin (14), Naz (12), and Darby (13) are drawing apart. But when the popular new Chambered Nautilus attraction goes awry, shutting the carnival down, and the ghostly Mr. Usher issues a desperate plea, they must come together as they realize he's always been there for them. Can they do the same for him?
What inspired you to write this book, and what core themes do you hope readers take away from it?
I was inspired to write a middle grade story that I hoped would mean as much to readers today as the books I read as a kid that meant so much to me. Like those books, the Summer of L.U.C.K. trilogy has themes of self-acceptance, communication, perseverance, dealing with life’s unfairness, finding courage, and the power of friendship. I'd like readers to finish my trilogy knowing that whatever they're struggling with, other kids struggle too, they are not alone, and help is possible (even if they don’t have a friendly ghost to guide them).
What kind of readers or patrons do you see this book resonating with most?
Girls and boys (and their parents) ranging from ages eight to twelve who enjoy heartwarming coming-of-age stories of self-discovery featuring characters experiencing magical adventures while dealing with real-world struggles, building friendships, overcoming bullying, and finding one's unique voice.
What themes or discussion topics do you hope librarians highlight when recommending the book?
In Summer of L.U.C.K. and its two sequels, Ready or Not and The Chambered Nautilus, the characters face these issues: Developing self-acceptance Learning to persevere Building self-esteem Letting go of perfection Growing friendships Discovering compassion Facing fears Gaining courage to deal with a bully Speaking out Being kind Finding one’s voice The importance of honesty Belief in one’s self
Are there any sensitive topics or content considerations librarians should be aware of?
In Ready or Not (pages 11-12), a bully calls his cabin mate an ethnic slur, which is immediately called out.
If your book were part of a library display, what topics, themes, or comparable titles would you pair it with?
Books about summer, summer camp, non-scary ghost stories, kids finding their voices, stuttering, grief, learning a new language. Some comparable titles: The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart The Miraculous by Jess Redman The Total Eclipse of Nestor Lopez by Adrianna Cuevas Sticks and Stones by Abby Cooper Camp Twisted Pine by Ciera Burch The Last Resort by Erin Entrada Kelly The Fire, the Water, and Maudie McGinn by Sally Pla Reach by Celesta Rimington
Are there companion resources librarians or educators should know about?
Yes, there are multiple resources on my education page.
Which formats are currently available?
Summer of L.U.C.K.
- Hardcover ISBN 978-1947796-57-7
- Paperback ISBN 978-1947796560
- E-book ISBN 978-1947796584
- Audiobook ASIN B0D9HYC9XY
Ready or Not
- Paperback ISBN 978-1633738263
- E-book ISBN 978-1633738270
- Audiobook ASIN B0DG63D7YF
The Chambered Nautilus
- Paperback ISBN 978-1633739031
- E-book ISBN 978-1633739048
- Audiobook ASIN B0DHSTTMVL
My publisher, Young Dragons Press, an imprint of Roan and Weatherford, does offer bulk discounts and school pricing options.
How could this book be used in community events or themed programming throughout the year?
Summer reading programs, or any events related to these issues: Developing self-acceptance Learning to persevere Building self-esteem Letting go of perfection Growing friendships Discovering compassion Facing fears Gaining courage to deal with a bully Speaking out Being kind Finding one’s voice The importance of honesty Believing in one’s self
Do you offer author engagement options for schools or libraries?
Yes, I do virtual visits, in-person events local to the greater Los Angeles area, in-person events in October in the New York City area, webinars, Q&A sessions, and more. I work with a bookstore that will ship personalized, autographed copies of all three books anywhere in the United States. My specific programs are outlined here: https://www.laurastegman.com/events/, and I can develop a presentation tailored to a school's or library's needs.
Is there anything else you would like librarians, teachers, or educators to know about your work?
Thank you for considering my books! I would love to work with you.
To learn more about Laura Stegman and the Summer of L.U.C.K. trilogy, explore educational resources, or find information about virtual and in-person author visits, visit https://www.laurastegman.com/.
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