Renowned Israeli Author and Poet Yehuda Atlas Passes Away at 89

The renowned Israeli author, poet, translator, and journalist Yehuda Atlas passed away on Thursday at the age of 89. Atlas, a recipient of the Prime Minister’s Prize for Hebrew Writers and a lifetime achievement award for children's literature, authored the iconic book "And This Child Is Me," which became a cornerstone of Israeli culture. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Early Life and Journalistic Career

Born in Moshav Ein Eiron in February 1937 to agriculturalist parents Esther and Yitzhak, Atlas grew up in Karkur and Hadera. He served in the Golani Brigade, later joined Kibbutz Mizra, and worked as an instructor in agricultural schools. After studying Middle Eastern studies and philosophy at Tel Aviv University, he transitioned to journalism. He edited the "Bamahane Gadna" magazine and served for years as deputy editor of the "7 Yamim" supplement at "Yediot Ahronot," where he also published his esteemed column "Big Child" for eight years.

When 'And This Child Is Me' came out, it entered an empty niche. There were no songs like that, and that was my luck. The moment it was released, everyone decided that this is the only way to write for children. - Yehuda Atlas

Literary Breakthrough and Legacy

His major breakthrough came in 1977 with the publication of "And This Child Is Me," featuring short children's poems capturing the world from a child's direct and honest perspective. The book won the Ze'ev Prize and revolutionized the genre. The overwhelming success led to beloved sequels, including "This Child Is Me Too,And Only Not Me," and "I Want Suddenly." Alongside his original writing, Atlas translated dozens of global masterpieces into Hebrew and focused on social issues in his later years, including books addressing school violence and at-risk youth.