Citi of Books Presents “Lt. Klaus Goes to the Barn” by Shannon Otto at the 78th Frankfurter Buchmesse 2026

“Lt. Klaus Goes to the Barn” by Shannon Otto is a charming children’s picture book that introduces young readers to the rewarding and sometimes messy work involved in caring for horses. The book follows Lt. Klaus as he visits a barn and learns about the responsibilities that come with taking care of horses. From inspecting the tools and supplies needed for barn work to feeding and grooming the horses, the story presents everyday stable activities through an engaging and child-friendly adventure.

The story follows Lt. Klaus as he makes his way to the barn for an up-close experience with horses and the work required to care for them. His adventure begins with an inspection of the tools and supplies necessary for maintaining the animals and their surroundings. This introductory part of the journey helps establish that caring for horses involves more than simply spending time with them—it requires the right equipment and a willingness to participate in daily tasks. Once everything is ready, Lt. Klaus gets involved in feeding the horses, giving young readers a glimpse into one of the most important responsibilities of stable care.

The adventure continues as Lt. Klaus takes on the task of grooming the horses. This gives the story an especially playful dimension, as children are encouraged to wonder which horse might have the dirtiest coat. Through these simple activities, Shannon Otto creates an accessible story about animals, responsibility, and discovery. The book does not overwhelm young readers with complicated information; instead, it allows them to experience the barn through Lt. Klaus’s activities and curiosity. The result is a warm introduction to horse care that can encourage children to appreciate animals while learning that caring for them requires time, effort, and kindness.

Shannon Otto is a retired educator who spent many years teaching elementary school students. Her professional experience working with children provides a natural foundation for creating books that introduce young readers to new experiences in an approachable and engaging way. In addition to her background in education, Otto has spent the past several years volunteering at a nonprofit stable operated by a retired special educator who works with many special-needs riders.

“Lt. Klaus Goes to the Barn” offers young readers a warm and accessible adventure centered on horses, curiosity, and responsibility. With its straightforward storyline, animal-focused setting, and playful question about the horses’ coats, the book can appeal especially to children who enjoy animals and hands-on adventures. Shannon Otto’s background as an educator and her personal connection to the stable environment further strengthen the book’s appeal, making it a delightful choice for shared reading and for young readers beginning to explore the world of horses.

Citi of Books at the 78th Frankfurter Buchmesse 2026 — showcasing stories from diverse voices and creating opportunities for authors and their books to reach new markets, connect with global audiences, and inspire readers beyond borders.