Israeli children’s literature has undergone an evolution since Israel’s founding. As a nation was becoming established, most Hebrew children's books emphasized the values of pioneering, struggle, and achievement, emphasizing the role of the individual in the building of the state.
Since then, children's literature has shifted to more age-appropriate subjects such as death, divorce, handicaps, adolescence, and the struggle for belonging. Imaginative children's books and stories were also written, providing pure fantasy, amusement, and escapism to young readers.
With these content changes, we are seeing many more current books which aim to show the diverse narratives of the people who live in Israel, to negate stereotypes, and address the immigration of Jews from around the world. Over the years a considerable body of children's literature for various age groups has been produced.
Explore this collection of classic and modern children’s literature, along with ideas for bringing these stories into your classrooms!