Young readers are in for a heartwarming and inspiring treat with the latest installment in Dave Grunenwald’s Lucas and Emily’s Adventures series. Lucas and Emily’s Food Bank Adventure invites children ages 5-10 to discover the joy of giving back, showing that volunteering can be fun, meaningful, and full of surprises.
The story follows best friends Lucas and Emily as they spend a day helping out at their city food bank, as well as several smaller community locations. From sorting cans and packing lunches to meeting the people who rely on the food bank’s services, the narrative presents volunteering as an engaging, hands-on experience. Through these small but impactful acts, young readers see firsthand how kindness and compassion can ripple through a community.
“Kindness is contagious,” said Grunenwald. “I wanted to create a story that shows kids how powerful their actions can be—even small ones. Volunteering doesn’t have to be boring or serious; it can be an adventure!”
This new book marks the sixth installment in the Lucas and Emily’s Adventures series, which emphasizes intergenerational bonding and everyday discoveries. Previous titles explore adventures in cooking, gardening, and learning about animals, always highlighting the joy of family connections and friendship. The series encourages children to approach daily life with curiosity, creativity, and empathy, offering stories that are both entertaining and educational.
In addition to the Lucas and Emily series, Grunenwald is the creator of the Grandparent Merit Badges books, available in both English and Spanish. These interactive volumes feature hands-on activities that foster learning, laughter, and connection between grandparents and grandchildren. Children earn colorful merit badges and certificates as they complete each activity, reinforcing the value of shared experiences and quality time.
Grunenwald also stresses the real-world importance of supporting local food banks. “Whether by giving money, donating food, or volunteering your time, every little bit helps,” he said. “People should put down their phones and iPads and spend time volunteering at a local food bank. The need is enormous, and kids can make a difference too.”
Lucas and Emily’s Food Bank Adventure is available now from Halo Publishing and can be purchased through major retailers, including Amazon. With its vibrant storytelling, relatable characters, and uplifting message, the book encourages children not only to read, but also to take action, cultivating empathy and civic engagement from a young age.