On the evening of Oct. 2 the Port Washington Library came alive with literature and music as Kiko Liang, a local author from the Nassau community, hosted a heartwarming book reading of her children’s book, “I Am Me.”

The event, sponsored by the non-profit organization Chinese Giving Circle, drew an enthusiastic crowd of over 100 attendees. Families from across the local area gathered to celebrate parent-child relationships and self-discovery in an evening filled with growth, creativity, and shared exploration.

Kiko Liang wrote the book, “I Am Me” with the goal of helping young readers embrace their individuality and creativity.

The book, which took two years to complete, is a reflection of Kiko’s deep commitment to fostering meaningful parent-child connections and encouraging children to explore their unique talents and imaginations. Kiko shared that she hopes her book will spark deeper conversations between parents and children, inspiring families to grow together through the power of storytelling.

Moderated by Serena Sun and Kayla Xu, both students of The Wheatley School, the event offered a platform for children and parents to delve into the themes of Kiko’s book. “I Am Me” is beautifully illustrated and emphasizes the importance of embracing one’s strengths while encouraging children to express their imagination freely.

Parents, in turn, gained valuable insights into how they can nurture their children’s growth and provide the space for them to explore their full potential.

In addition to the book reading, the evening was enriched by volunteer musical performances. Phoebe Qian, a student of The Wheatley School and Juilliard Pre-College, captivated the audience with her cello and vocal pieces. Norman Yao, a Schreiber High School student and fellow Juilliard Pre-College musician, delivered a soulful bass performance.

Keira Lassegue, a St. John’s University student, joined Phoebe for a beautiful vocal and guitar duet. This seamless fusion of music and literature added depth to the event, creating a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere that made the night truly special.

Following the reading and musical interludes, a lively Q&A session engaged the audience, with children eagerly taking the stage to ask questions. This moment reflected the core educational values of confidence and creativity that Kiko seeks to promote in her book.

The interaction allowed both parents and children to connect with the themes of *I Am Me* on a personal level, making the event a highly interactive and empowering experience for all.

The evening concluded with a joyful celebration featuring a book-shaped cake, which was a delightful surprise for attendees.

Families took the opportunity to sign books, take photos, and share their thoughts with Kiko Liang, who warmly engaged with readers and their families. The event left a lasting impression, providing parents with valuable advice on supporting their children’s personal journeys and giving children a memorable platform to express themselves.

Kiko Liang’s “I Am Me” continues to resonate with both young readers and their parents, offering a message of self-discovery and growth.

Thanks to the collaboration between Kiko and Chinese Giving Circle, as well as the time generously volunteered by the young musicians and students of The Wheatley school, the event successfully merged the worlds of literature, music, and community, offering an enriching night for both parents and children alike.