BookCon (formerly known as Book Expo America) brought together a vibrant mix of authors, publishers, and book lovers under one roof, creating an exciting space where stories and ideas came to life. Held over two dynamic days, the event buzzed with panel discussions, book signings, and creative showcases that celebrated the ever-evolving world of publishing. From emerging writers to established voices, BookCon proved once again to be a hub for inspiration, connection, and discovery.
Citi of Books proudly took part in this year’s event, marking another meaningful step in its journey of supporting authors and sharing stories with a wider audience. The team engaged with fellow exhibitors, connected with readers, and explored fresh trends shaping the publishing industry. It was a rewarding experience that allowed the company to strengthen its presence while building valuable relationships within the literary community.
Throughout the event, Citi of Books highlighted its commitment to helping authors reach global platforms. From showcasing select titles to discussing distribution opportunities, the team made the most of every interaction. The energy at the booth reflected a shared passion for storytelling, and it was clear that events like BookCon continue to open doors for both writers and readers alike.
Attending book events like BookCon remains essential in today’s publishing landscape, offering a unique chance to connect, learn, and grow. These gatherings remind us that behind every book is a community eager to share and celebrate stories. At Citi of Books’ Book Gallery, this spirit lives on through featured titles that deserve the spotlight—inviting readers to discover their next great read and authors to find their place on the shelf.
Among the standout selections that captivated attendees was “James Legge and the Chinese Classics” by Marilyn Bowman.
…James Legge (1815-1897), was a great Scots scholar and missionary famed as a translator of the Chinese Classics when struggles between Britain and China included two wars.
It was an era of sailing ships, pirates, opium wars, the swashbuckling East India Company, cannibals eating missionaries, and the opening of Qing China to trade and ideas. Legge was vilified by fundamentalist missionaries who disagreed with his favourable views about Chinese culture and beliefs. He risked beheading twice while helping Chinese individuals being terrorized during the Taiping Rebellion. He became so ill from Hong Kong fevers when only 29 that he was forced to return to the UK to save his life. Recovering, he and his three talented Chinese students attracted such interest that they were invited to a private meeting with Queen Victoria. Legge thrived despite serious illnesses, lost five of his 11 children and both wives to premature deaths, survived cholera epidemics, typhoons, and massive fires. He was poisoned twice in a famous scandal, helped save a sailing ship from fire on the high seas, took in a bohemian Qing scholar on the run, foiled a bank-bombing plot, and earned enmity in the colony for providing court testimony about translation that favoured accused Chinese men rather than the colonial authorities. Legge’s resilient responses and incredible productivity reflected the passion he had developed at the age of 23 for understanding the culture of China. He retired to become a Fellow of Corpus Christi College and the first Professor of Chinese.