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 “Give the Drummer Some: Drum Line Origins in School-Daze Confunktory” by Milton Lawrence Cox II.
Milton Lawrence Cox II graduated “Thank-You-Laude” with a Bachelor of Science degree from the School of Business at Virginia State University in Petersburg, VA. At VSU, he was impressed and taught that playing music in a college level marching band is performing on the professional level.
During his junior year at Big State (VSU) he also sought out and volunteered for a one semester cooperative education internship as a computer programmer trainee at Aetna Life and Casualty Insurance Company in Hartford, CT, which upon successful completion was extended for a second semester.
Keeping his love for percussion playing current, he has performed in and around eastern Virginia as a drummer-percussionist with the Virginia State University Alumni Theatre Ensemble’s production of For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf.
He is also prone to offer occasional sit-in rudimental combination strokes on his church’s drum set as his choir’s accompaniment. The former U. S. Navy Lieutenant is a behavioral health provider and resides in Hampton Roads, VA.
“Give the Drummer Some: Drum Line Origins in School-Daze Confunktory” offers an engaging and deeply personal look into Cox’s journey as an African American student drummer during the 1960s and 1970s. Drawing from his experiences performing in school marching bands, concert bands, and string orchestras, Cox vividly traces the evolution of the traditional “drum section” into the high-energy “drumline” we know today.
The book captures a pivotal era when the rigid, military-style cadences of classic marching bands gave way to the funk-inspired, rhythmically complex beats that define modern drumlines. Cox identifies three driving forces behind this musical transformation: the spirit of competition among drummers, the creative urge to expand rhythmic possibilities, and the intense rivalries that developed between schools.
Beyond the music itself, Cox highlights how drumlines became not just about sound but about showmanship—where synchronized movements, flair, and crowd engagement turned performances into thrilling displays of rhythm and energy. “Give the Drummer Some” celebrates this cultural and musical evolution, honoring the creativity, passion, and innovation that helped shape one of the most dynamic traditions in American music history.
2 Comments
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