The Beijing International Book Fair (BIBF) stands as one of the most significant literary gatherings in the world, bringing together publishers, authors, literary professionals, and readers from across the globe. Recognized as the world’s second-largest book fair and Asia’s most influential publishing event, BIBF showcases hundreds of thousands of titles while fostering international collaboration, cultural exchange, and innovation within the publishing industry. Each year, the fair attracts more than 2,600 exhibitors from over 100 countries and regions, making it a premier destination for discovering new voices, ideas, and publishing opportunities.
Over the years, Citi of Books has actively participated in a wide range of international literary events, including book fairs, publishing conferences, exhibitions, author showcases, and book signings. These events have provided valuable opportunities to connect with readers, build relationships within the publishing industry, and introduce talented authors to broader audiences. Through its continued commitment to promoting diverse voices and meaningful stories, Citi of Books has established itself as a publishing partner dedicated to helping authors reach readers around the world.
Building on the success of its 2025 edition, the BIBF remains committed to fostering cultural connections through literature. Held from June 17–21 at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, this year’s fair once again brings together publishers, authors, industry professionals, and readers from across the globe for five days of literary discovery, rights negotiations, educational initiatives, and meaningful cultural exchange.
Citi of Books was honored to showcase the work of its talented authors on the international stage, presenting a diverse range of titles at the 2026 Beijing International Book Fair. This prestigious global event provided an invaluable opportunity to connect these works with readers, publishers, and literary professionals from around the world while celebrating the power of books to bridge cultures and inspire meaningful conversations. Among the featured works that drew attention from attendees was “In the Beginning: The Early Days of Religious Beliefs” by Jaime Reyes.
“In the Beginning: The Early Days of Religious Beliefs” by Jaime Reyes is a fascinating work of historical fiction that imagines how the earliest forms of organized religious belief may have emerged among prehistoric humans. Set during the Upper Paleolithic period, the novel transports readers to a world dominated by harsh weather, tribal survival, superstition, and the constant struggle against nature. At the center of the story is Og, an exceptionally intelligent Neanderthal whose observations and ingenuity allow him to influence the beliefs of his tribe in ways that will shape future generations. Through a blend of adventure, anthropology, and imaginative storytelling, Reyes explores the origins of spirituality, leadership, and humanity’s enduring search for meaning.
Jaime Reyes has enjoyed many career changes. He was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, several decades ago. His family moved to the U.S. mainland when he was nearly eight years old. He spoke no English but in a matter of months was fluent enough to become a straight-A student. It helped that he learned to read Spanish at age three and continued to feed his voracious appetite for words in the new language.
After graduating from Thomas A. Edison High School, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served honorably in Vietnam as a military intelligence agent and analyst. After completing military service, he started his own business, which he managed successfully for seven years. He sold the business and pursued the career of his dreams in law enforcement. He worked with the Philadelphia Police Department for five years and then the Philadelphia Office of the Sheriff as a deputy sheriff. He served for twenty-five years, the last ten years as a supervisor.
What makes the novel particularly unique is its exploration of religion not as a fully formed institution, but as an evolving response to fear, uncertainty, and the desire to understand the natural world. By placing readers among prehistoric tribes and allowing them to witness the birth of rituals, myths, and spiritual leadership, Reyes creates a compelling narrative that encourages reflection on how belief systems may have developed throughout human history.
The novel’s greatest strength lies in its ability to humanize prehistoric people while exploring universal questions that remain relevant today. Through Og’s journey, readers encounter themes of fear, hope, community, and the search for understanding—experiences that transcend time and culture. Whether one is interested in historical fiction, anthropology, religion, or the origins of human civilization, “In the Beginning: The Early Days of Religious Beliefs” offers a unique and memorable reading experience that encourages reflection on the forces that have shaped humanity from its earliest days.
As BIBF continues to unite readers, writers, and publishers across continents, Citi of Books remains proud to contribute to this global celebration of storytelling and knowledge. We look forward to the continued growth of international literary connections at BIBF 2026 and beyond, where books serve as bridges between cultures, ideas, and generations.
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BOOK FAIR HIGHLIGHTS
