Israeli President Herzog Mourns Beloved Children's Author Yehuda Atlas

Israeli President Isaac Herzog eulogized acclaimed author, poet, translator, and editor Yehuda Atlas, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 89. Atlas was widely regarded as one of Israel's foremost children's literature creators, best known for his iconic "And This Child Is Me" series, which resonated with generations of Israeli children.

President Herzog expressed deep sorrow over Atlas's death, stating that the sentiment captured in "And This Child Is Me" accompanied hundreds of thousands of Israeli children who grew up with his immense talent. The President noted that Atlas's dozens of children's books, alongside numerous translated works, were an integral part of Israeli childhood, often providing enjoyment and nostalgia for parents as well.

Hersog described Atlas, who was born to farming parents in Ein Vered, as remaining a "timeless child" despite his upbringing in a rural setting, marveling at his precise ability to capture a child's inner world.

Atlas had a distinguished career, editing the youth magazine 'Bamahaneh Gadna' and serving as deputy editor of the '7 Yamim' supplement for 'Yedioth Ahronoth,' where he wrote a column on children's books. His 'And This Child Is Me' series, comprising five books, was also adapted into a popular music album.

Atlas received the Prime Minister's Prize for Hebrew Writers in 2013, among other accolades, and in recent years focused on writing about at-risk youth. President Herzog concluded by saying Atlas will be missed, but his creative legacy will continue to enrich Israeli children for years to come.