Escaping Ukraine, Finding Hope

by Mila Mostova, Diana Maksymenko (Illustrator), Green Card Voices (Editor)

Overview

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.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781949523331
Publisher:	Green Card Voices
Publication date:	10/21/2025
Series:	Our Stories Carried Us Here
Pages:	64
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)
Age Range:	8 - 12 Years

About the Author

Mila Mostova, a teacher in Ukraine fled war-torn Ukraine with her children, leaving behind her home and career. Air raid sirens and explosions forced her to seek safety, leading her to Duluth, Minnesota, through the United for Ukraine program. There, she rebuilt her life, supporting her children, working in mental health, and helping others overcome challenges. She continues to advocate for Ukraine and raise awareness about the immigrant experience.

Green Card Voices is a non-profit organization dedicated to building inclusive and integrated communities between immigrants and their communities through multimedia storytelling.