Antonov Airlines has collaborated with Vivat Publishing to create a series of illustrated children’s books hat aim to support Ukrainian children affected by the war.
The first two books in the “Winged Stories” series are already being printed in Kharkiv. These books, created with the support of Antonov specialists, tell stories about the planes that, just two years ago, took off from the airport in Hostomel, which was destroyed at the beginning of Russia’s invasion. Vivat Publishing continues to print Ukrainian literature, while Antonov planes carry out important missions around the world. This collaboration aims to inspire children to dream and support those who need it most.
Two children’s authors have created four stories where Antonov airplanes are the main characters. They overcome fears and difficulties, achieve goals, save people, fight fires, and make new friends. Part of the proceeds from the book sales will go to the Together for Ukraine charity fund, which cares for over a thousand children who have been orphaned, lost their homes, or were forced to leave due to the war.
The books are printed in Ukrainian and English. The participants plan to distribute the books outside Ukraine, reminding the world how Ukrainians continue to dream and act despite all difficulties.
In December this year, to mark the 35th anniversary of the first flight of the largest transport aircraft, AN-225 Mriya the partners held a nationwide children’s drawing contest in which 1,295 children aged 4 to 14 from different parts of the country depicted their fantasies about the largest aircraft Mriya in the peaceful skies of Ukraine.
Stationery manufacturer TM YES also supported the project by printing a series of school notebooks with illustrations from the books. Part of the proceeds from their sale also goes to the Together for Ukraine fund.
The latter’s executive director, Evelina Krulets, noted: “We received impressive works. Not all of them were about airplanes. The children depicted their experiences, the pain of loss, and their belief in a bright future. Their parents sacrificed their lives for the existence of Ukraine. Now it is our responsibility to create conditions for their development and a better future.”
