A double presentation of Maryana Hladii’s new book “Legacy” took place in Chicago — at the Ukrainian National Museum and in the auditorium of St. Joseph the Betrothed Church. The event brought together a wide Ukrainian community interested in history, culture, and literature.
This was reported by Mariana Gamaniouk.
“Legacy” is the author’s second book, following her earlier novel “Yarka” about the struggle of captured Azov soldiers. In her new work, Hladii takes the reader back to the period between the two World Wars, telling the intertwined stories of two families — the Khukharchuks and the Ostrozkyis. The saga explores themes of love, faith, honor, and the fight for one’s homeland. The author emphasizes that “legacy” is not about material wealth but about spiritual memory — language, faith, culture, and the ability to defend what is one’s own.
A distinctive artistic feature of the book is the diary of Tereza Ostrozka, which opens each chapter and becomes a “virtual hero” of the story. Another visual highlight is the photography of Roksolana Prokopiv’s costume designs, which vividly convey the characters’ images and the atmosphere of the narrative.
During the presentation, Maryana Hladii shared her reflections on the writing process and sources of inspiration. Some storylines, she said, were inspired by her personal experiences, and her brother — now serving at the front — remains her main source of support and first critic.
“I am here (at the front, at war — ed. VM) because I don’t want to pass on the fight as a legacy to my children. I am here so that the legacy of future generations will be a beautiful Ukraine,” — his words, quoted by the author, deeply moved the audience.
The musical part of the evening featured performances by Andriy Boychuk, Anzhelina Sovych, and the vocal studio “Elegiya.”
Guests also enjoyed a photo exhibition by Roksolana Prokopiv dedicated to the historical saga, featuring unique authentic clothing from her personal collection, as well as a display of Ukrainian insurgent military equipment curated by Yuriy Soroka. The active participation of young people born in the U.S. was especially noted — a symbol of the connection between generations.
After the presentation, attendees had the opportunity to purchase the book and receive the author’s autograph. “Legacy” has already become a notable cultural event within the Ukrainian community of Chicago, reminding everyone that true heritage lies in memory, love, and dignity — the values meant to be passed on.
Author: Danylo Pievchev