Citi of Books proudly brought the books of our remarkable authors to the heart of the 39th Guadalajara International Book Fair (FIL), turning our space into a lively corner where stories, ideas, and creativity met.
Being part of FIL from November 29 to December 7, in Expo Guadalajara, Av. Mariano Otero 1599, Col. Verde Valle, Guadalajara, Jalisco, meant more than simply displaying books—it meant becoming part of a larger cultural heartbeat. Our gallery served as a bridge between authors and curious readers, offering a close-up look at stories that deserve the spotlight. From powerful biographies to practical guides, and from imaginative fiction to soul-stirring reflections, our curated collection drew in visitors who left with new favorites in hand. And with the vibrant spirit of FIL all around us, every conversation, recommendation, and smile felt like a reminder of why we love sharing books with the world.
With FIL’s electric atmosphere—filled with authors, readers, and cultures from around the globe—our gallery became a warm stop for visitors eager to discover fresh voices and inspiring works. Among the standout titles we showcased was “Breaking Free from the Inner Critic: The Underlying Cause of All Addictions & Social Problems” by Kalie Marino.
“Breaking Free from the Inner Critic” is a powerful and heartfelt guide to understanding the one voice that often causes the most damage—the one inside our own heads. Drawing from her background as both a therapist and minister, Marino exposes what she calls “critical addiction,” the habit of constant self-judgment formed early in life and reinforced by family, culture, and society. She walks readers through how this inner critic develops, how it shapes behaviors and addictions, and how it contributes to bigger social issues like conflict, stress, and emotional fatigue. At the core of the book is her practical solution: a shift in identity supported by her “Four Steps to Freedom,” designed to help readers find clarity, purpose, and genuine inner peace.
What makes this book stand out is Marino’s honesty. She doesn’t just teach—she admits to falling into the same traps she helps others escape. Her story about trying to stop being critical and ending up criticizing herself for being critical is both funny and painfully relatable. That kind of vulnerability makes the book feel like a conversation with someone who truly gets it. Her writing is warm, grounded, and easy to absorb, making complex ideas feel surprisingly simple.
Sure, a few metaphors stretch a bit far, but the heart of the message shines through. Marino reframes criticism as a genuine addiction—one we keep feeding without realizing it. The way she connects personal habits to societal negativity opens your eyes to how self-criticism doesn’t just hurt individuals—it influences families, workplaces, and communities. Her blend of psychological understanding and spiritual wisdom gives the book depth without weighing it down.
This book is perfect for anyone battling self-doubt, perfectionism, guilt, or emotional overwhelm. It’s also a great fit for therapists, teachers, spiritual seekers, and anyone craving healthier relationships—with themselves and others. The biggest moral lesson? Real change begins with compassion, not punishment. And in real life, that means learning to speak to yourself with the same kindness you offer the people you love. If you’re ready for a book that brings both insight and hope, “Breaking Free from the Inner Critic: The Underlying Cause of All Addictions & Social Problems” deserves a spot at the top of your reading list.
