MOJO’S RETURN: A STORY OF RESILIENCE AND HOPE

by Lishay Miran Lavi (Co Author), Mary Millman, Melissa Stoller

MOJO’S RETURN: A STORY OF RESILIENCE AND HOPE, is a picture book inspired by the events of October 7, 2023 in Israel. One of the authors is Lishay Miran Lavi, wife of former hostage Omri Miran, who was reunited with his family on October 13, 2025. The book is sponsored by the ANU-Museum of the Jewish People. Proceeds benefit charities for children in Israel.

In the story, the Lev Family lives life joyfully, singing and dancing with their dog Mojo near their big lemon tree, until a fierce storm hits their kibbutz, leaving the father and Mojo missing. Mojo returns, but the father doesn’t. The family learns to be strong, longing for the father with love in their hearts, while embarking on new adventures surrounded by their community. This is a universal story, highlighting themes of resilience, hope, and joy. It is a heartfelt homage to the enduring human spirit, celebrating the journey through adversity with love and optimism.

40 pages, Paperback

Published November 28, 2025

Reviews

[Erika Dreifus]

A sweet story that masterfully, carefully deals with the aftermath of trauma. Cannot help thinking that the ending, in particular, will likely land differently with young children than with adults who may be reading it to them.

[Ann Koffsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

The authors have tackled a challenging, terrible event, and made it understandable and digestible for children--an incredible, and necessary feat. This book is a mitzvah, and I hope it brings comfort and understanding to all who read it. Highly recommend!

[Martha Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The horrible, devastating attack that took place in Israel on October 7, 2023 is depicted as a tornado in this picture book that attempts to explain a tragic event to young children. A mother and two young daughters survive by hiding in a shelter with neighbors. When they emerge, the father and their dog, Mojo, are missing. Eventually, Mojo returns and the family finds hope and joy again, while keeping their missing family member alive in their hearts. The story is non-specific enough to be applied to other traumatic events children may encounter. Adults looking for a therapeutic book to aid children on their healing journeys may find this simple allegory helpful.

[Jan Schwaid · Rating 5 out of 5]

This touching, beautiful book explores an incredibly difficult subject in a way that will appeal to children without being overly scary or maudlin. As the title suggests, this is a story of resilience and hope, told in a way that is more easily explainable for younger audiences. This book is important and meaningful - definitely something that should be shared far and wide. Huge kudos to the authors for talking about something so important so gently and beautifully. Illustrations are lovely and charming, as well.

[Danya Vasquez David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lishay Miran Lavi and Melissa Berger Stoller take on the incredibly challenging job of taking the harrowing events of October 7th in Israel and making something healing and hopeful for children. MOJO'S RETURN is powerful, consoling, and most of all, hopeful. I purchased a copy for myself and plan to buy more as gifts, all proceeds go to charities that benefit children in the region. Thank you for bringing this book into the world.

[Claire Freeland · Rating 5 out of 5]

It takes real talent to create a story for children of recovery from negative events. These authors know the heart of a child. When something bad happens, children need a story such as this one to find the road to healing. So very well done!

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet story with a powerful lesson of hope and resilience! Highly recommend!!

[SUSAN FERN · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Delightful, inspiring children’s book. Wonderful to read and a great gift for a young child.