The world’s largest bookfair, Frankfurter Buchmesse, opened its doors last October 16-20, 2024, in Frankfurt, Germany. For worldwide business and trading, it is regarded as the most significant book fair on earth. More than 4,300 exhibitors and an expected 114,000 trade visitors from 131 countries, welcoming rights professionals from a total of 355 agencies and publishers make the Frankfurt Book Fair a place of endless discoveries. On the stages we experienced exciting international voices.
As the Frankfurter Buchmesse celebrates its anniversary for another year of serving the industry, Citi of Books did not miss the chance to join the 76th Frankfurt Book Fair (Frankfurter Buchmesse) in Frankfurt, Germany. This spectacular gathering honors fascinating works and their creators.
With a series of activities prepared, one of the most anticipated this year is the chosen country to be the guest of honor, which is Italy. The country will present not just its diverse, unique qualities as an attractive place to travel but also as a country with a rich literary tradition.
Citi of Books is excited to present books written by our distinguished authors. In our assigned booth, a range of books—from fiction to nonfiction—would be on exhibit. A book included in the gallery was “SHMUG-A-LA TAMES THE SHMOVID MONSTER” by Jane Carey.
Jane wrote her first poem at age 6, emphatically stating that she liked bees and trees but hated peas! She has been writing and rhyming ever since. Before writing children’s books, Jane was an RN, a School Board Director, an educator, a counselor, a businesswoman, a community leader, and an artist.
Her enduring passion is to draw people out, encourage their growth & healing, and delight in their flourishing & fulfillment. She is a mother of 4 and grandmother of 2, and currently lives in sunny Carmel Valley, California. She loves hosting her family, and you will most likely find her enjoying her backyard, playing with her grandchildren, or both.
“SHMUG-A-LA’s my name and FUN is my game! I’m a Whach-a-ma-call-it, and so much more! We’ll think of things you never thought of before!”
In “SHMUG-A-LA TAMES THE SHMOVID MONSTER a spirited and whimsical character named Shmug-a-la bursts into the life of a young boy facing overwhelming challenges. As the boy grapples with the pressures of school, family expectations, and a sense of isolation, Shmug-a-la appears like a vibrant whirlwind, promising to transform the mundane into the extraordinary.
As they navigate whimsical landscapes filled with magical creatures and surreal scenarios, the boy learns to confront his fears symbolized by the Shmovid Monster—a metaphor for his anxieties and doubts. Through imaginative games and challenges, Shmug-a-la encourages him to “choose fun” as a powerful tool for resilience.
Shmug-a-la’s infectious enthusiasm and boundless imagination spark a flicker of hope in the boy. With a playful approach, Shmug-a-la introduces him to a world where creativity reigns supreme. Together, they embark on a series of fantastical adventures, each designed to inspire the boy to embrace joy, laughter, and a sense of wonder, even when life feels heavy.
As their journey unfolds, the boy’s perspective begins to shift. He learns that by focusing on the possibilities of fun and creativity, he can reclaim his sense of agency and happiness. Shmug-a-la teaches him that laughter and imagination are not just escapes from reality but powerful allies in facing life’s difficulties. Ultimately, this book is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the transformative power of choosing joy in the face of adversity.