Escaping Ukraine, Finding Hope (Our Stories Carried Us Here)
Written by Mila Mostova
Illustrated by Diana Maksymenko
Published by Green Card Voices
The 5th bilingual graphic memoir in the powerful series, “Our Stories Carried Us Here.” Escaping Ukraine, Finding Hope tells the timely story of one family leaving their beloved homeland to start over in America.
Once a teacher and devoted mother, Mila Mostova’s days of teaching and gardening turn into nights of air sirens and explosions from war. As danger closes in, Mila makes a heartbreaking choice to leave Ukraine and protect her children at all costs. With the help of Sue, her former American host, Mila and her kids embark on a daring journey to Duluth, Minnesota. Starting over isn’t easy, but Mila’s determination never wavers. Her children embrace a new school and language, while Mila channels her strength into building a new life—helping others overcome challenges, just as she has.
This bilingual book, written in Ukrainian and English, bursts to life with stunning illustrations by a Ukrainian newcomer. Perfect for classrooms and libraries, “Escaping Ukraine, Finding Hope” is a moving tale of survival, hope, and resilience. It captures the hardships of families displaced by war and the incredible power of kindness, community, and the human spirit.
Primary ISBN: 9781949523331
Publication Date: October 2025
Available As: Hardcover
Middle Grade, Graphic Memoir, Age 08 or older
Community Represented: Ukrainian/Ukrainian American
Themes: Activism, Community Action, Family Relationship: Parents, Family Relationship: Siblings, Format: Graphic Novel, Genre: Biography, Multilingual: Ukrainian/English Bilingual, Neighbors & Neighborhoods, Own Voices/Lived Experience, Refugee Journey, Refugee: War/Conflict, Setting: Home Country, Welcoming by Community, Welcoming by School
Setting: Ukraine, United States (Duluth MN)
Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Refugee
Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience
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