Lumi and the Castaway (Paperback or Softback)

✨ By Best-Selling & Award-Winning Author L.S. Franco ✨


When a frightened hedgehog named Thistle washes ashore in the Arctic, chaos erupts. Thistle yells, breaks things, and keeps everyone at a distance, too scared and lost to trust anyone.

As much as he shouts and stomps to keep others away, Lumi and his friends patiently find ways to show him they care, respecting his time and feelings every step of the way.

A gentle story about fear, belonging, and the power of kindness, patience, and persistence.


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Meet Lumi — a penguin with a Special Spark! 🐧💫
Lumi was created to help neurodivergent children feel seen, valued, and understood — while gently encouraging awareness and acceptance in the world around them.

More than just a story, Lumi is a movement — one that shows kids (and grown-ups) that our differences are not just okay... they’re something to celebrate. 🎉

This heartwarming tale follows Lumi, a penguin who doesn’t quite fit in like the others — and that’s exactly what makes him special. As young readers journey alongside him, they’re invited to embrace neurodivergence with love, patience, and understanding. 💛

Thoughtfully crafted for all children, Lumi’s pages are filled with vibrant yet calming illustrations — avoiding overstimulation and creating a sensory-friendly experience for those who need it most. The storytelling is simple, engaging, and comforting — a safe space to explore themes of belonging, perseverance, and kindness.

Whether shared in classrooms, libraries, or cozy reading nooks, Lumi isn’t just a book series — it’s a step toward a more inclusive, compassionate world. 🌍


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🔗 Learn more at www.LumiHops.com

L.S. Franco is an author dedicated to shaping the hearts and minds of young readers and teenagers through stories that inspire empathy, courage, and self-discovery. Her latest series, Lumi, empowers neurodivergence awareness, inviting children to embrace their unique abilities while fostering compassion and understanding for others. With each heartfelt adventure, Franco nurtures values like self-love, resilience, and kindness-helping the next generation navigate life with confidence and purpose.Writing for her son, her greatest inspiration and source of energy, Franco pours a deep, abiding love into every word. Her stories reflect her belief that imagination is not just an escape but a powerful guide-a way for young minds to explore who they are, discover their strengths, and find their place in the world.Franco's mission is to leave behind a legacy of stories that challenge, uplift, and endure. In addition to Lumi, she is the author of the acclaimed Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy, a young adult dark fantasy series exploring self-discovery, perseverance, faith, and the power of friendship. Her works include the beautiful Three O'Clock Train and the ABC Collection (O livro do ABC), a creative resource for teaching cursive calligraphy to early learners.Through her books, Franco assures parents that her stories will do more than entertain-they will inspire children to value themselves, connect with others, and approach the world with open hearts and strong spirits.