Famous Israeli Writers

Dmitry Glukhovsky is a Russian author known for his popular science fiction novel Metro 2033 and its sequels. He has a background in journalism, having worked for Euronews, RT, and other media outlets. Glukhovsky has lived in various countries such as Israel, Germany, and France, in addition to his native Moscow. Currently living abroad, he faces legal challenges in Russia due to his outspoken criticism of the government and its actions, particularly related to the invasion of Ukraine.

John the Evangelist is traditionally attributed as the author of the Gospel of John. He is believed to have been a significant figure in the early Christian community, with roles as an apostle, a writer of several New Testament texts, and a key leader in spreading the Christian faith. John's professional life likely involved preaching, teaching, and evangelizing, as well as providing spiritual guidance to believers. His influence extended to the establishment and growth of early Christian churches, contributing to the foundation of Christian theology and doctrine.

Natan Sharansky is an Israeli politician, human rights activist, and author with a remarkable professional journey. He served as Chairman of the Executive for the Jewish Agency and currently holds the position of Chairman for the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy (ISGAP). Sharansky is a former Soviet dissident who endured nine years of imprisonment as a refusenik in the 1970s and 1980s. His dedication to advocacy and leadership in various organizations reflects his commitment to human rights and combating antisemitism on a global scale.

Max Brod was a versatile professional, excelling as an author, composer, and journalist. He is most notably recognized for his close relationship with writer Franz Kafka, acting as his friend and biographer. Brod defied Kafka's wishes to destroy his unpublished work, instead choosing to publish them posthumously. Fleeing Nazi occupation in 1939, Brod relocated to Mandatory Palestine, bringing with him an invaluable collection of Kafka's papers. His dedication to preserving Kafka's legacy and contributions to literature solidify his significant impact on the literary world.

Shmuel Yosef Agnon was an Austro-Hungarian-born Israeli novelist, poet, and short-story writer, known by the acronym Shai Agnon in Hebrew. He played a significant role in modern Hebrew literature, focusing on the conflict between traditional Jewish life and the modern world. His works aimed to preserve the fading traditions of the European shtetl and broadened the concept of the narrator's role in literature. Agnon's distinctive linguistic style blended modern and rabbinic Hebrew. In 1966, he shared the Nobel Prize in Literature with poet Nelly Sachs.

Yehuda Amichai was an influential Israeli poet and author known for being one of the first to write in colloquial Hebrew in modern times. Throughout his career, he received numerous prestigious awards such as the Shlonsky Prize, Brenner Prize, Bialik Prize, and Israel Prize. In addition to his success in Israel, he also won international poetry prizes and received multiple Nobel Prize in Literature nominations. Amichai's work remains highly regarded for its depth, emotional resonance, and exploration of universal themes.

Solomon Perel was a German-born Israeli author and motivational speaker. He successfully evaded Nazi persecution by posing as an ethnic German. His remarkable life story is depicted in the 1990 film Europa Europa, loosely based on his autobiography Ich war Hitlerjunge Salomon (I Was Hitler Youth Salomon). Perel actively engaged with schools, delivering speeches to share his experiences and lessons learned from his past. Through his work as a speaker and writer, he aimed to educate and inspire others with his unique perspective on history and survival.

Iddo Netanyahu is an Israeli physician, author, and playwright. As a physician, he has dedicated his career to serving patients and providing medical care. In addition to his medical work, he is known for his talents as an author and playwright, with his works being recognized and appreciated by audiences. Through his various professional endeavors, Iddo Netanyahu has made significant contributions to the fields of healthcare and literature, showcasing his diverse talents and commitment to his work.

Mascha Kaléko was a prominent German-language poet known for her poignant and emotionally rich poetry. Her work often explored themes of love, loss, and the human experience with a unique blend of humor and sensitivity. Kaléko gained recognition for her distinctive writing style characterized by concise and lyrical verses. She published several collections of poetry during her career and became a celebrated figure in the literary circles of her time. Kaléko's work continues to resonate with readers worldwide for its profound insights and emotional depth.

Gilad Atzmon is a versatile Israeli-born British jazz saxophonist, novelist, political activist, and writer. He is renowned for his musical talents, particularly as a saxophonist, bandleader, and multi-instrumentalist. Atzmon has led various bands, recorded numerous albums, and performed extensively worldwide. His exploration of identity through diverse cultural folk forms is a distinctive aspect of his music. Additionally, Atzmon has collaborated with renowned musicians, contributed to albums of notable artists, and produced works for other musicians. As a writer, he has penned satirical novels and non-fiction works focusing on topics such as Palestinian rights, Israel, and identity politics.

Avraham Gabriel "Boolie" Yehoshua was an Israeli novelist, essayist, and playwright known for his exploration of themes such as Jewish identity, intergroup relations, generational conflicts, and the intersection of religion and politics. Throughout his career, Yehoshua gained recognition for his literary contributions, with The New York Times likening him to the renowned American author William Faulkner. His works have delved into the complexities of Israeli society and culture, offering insightful perspectives on the challenges and dynamics within the nation.

Aharon Appelfeld was an Israeli novelist and Holocaust survivor known for his poignant and reflective literary works. His writing often explored themes of memory, trauma, and resilience in the face of tragedy. Appelfeld's novels were acclaimed for their lyrical prose and deep insight into the human experience. He was a prolific author, publishing numerous novels and essays over the course of his career. His works have been widely translated and have garnered international recognition for their profound exploration of the impact of the Holocaust on individuals and society.

Yitzhak Navon was an Israeli politician, diplomat, playwright, and author. He served as the fifth President of Israel from 1978 to 1983 as a member of the centre-left Alignment party. Navon was the first Israeli president born in Jerusalem and the first Sephardi Jew to hold that office. Throughout his professional life, he was known for his dedication to public service, his contributions to Israeli politics, and his commitment to promoting peace and understanding both within Israel and on the international stage.

David Grossman is a renowned Israeli author known for his impactful literary works that have achieved international recognition. His books have been translated into over 30 languages, showcasing his ability to connect with diverse audiences worldwide. In 2018, Grossman received the prestigious Israel Prize for literature, highlighting his significant contributions to the literary world. Throughout his career, Grossman has demonstrated a commitment to exploring complex themes and emotions through his writing, solidifying his reputation as a prolific and influential author.

Abba Kovner was a Jewish partisan leader known for his bravery during the Holocaust. His manifesto in the Vilna Ghetto was the first to reveal the German plan to exterminate all Jews. Despite his failed attempt to organize a ghetto uprising, Kovner joined Soviet partisans and survived the war. Afterward, he led Nakam, a group seeking revenge by targeting Germans. Kovner's literary talent earned him recognition as one of the greatest Modern Hebrew poets, culminating in the prestigious Israel Prize in 1970.

Eliyahu M. Goldratt was an Israeli business management guru known for his development of the Theory of Constraints (TOC) and related methodologies such as the Optimized Production Technique and Critical Chain Project Management. Through his business novels and non-fiction works, Goldratt emphasized the application of TOC principles to improve manufacturing, engineering, and other business processes. His approach focused on identifying and alleviating constraints within systems to optimize overall throughput, highlighting the importance of managing resource flows and recognizing the impact of constraints on operational efficiency.

Sayed Kashua is a prominent author and journalist known for his work in both Hebrew and English languages. As a Palestinian citizen of Israel, he has gained recognition for his insightful books and humorous columns. Kashua's writings often reflect on the complexities of identity, culture, and belonging in a diverse society. Through his unique perspective and engaging storytelling, he has established himself as a significant voice in contemporary literature and journalism, sparking important conversations about the Palestinian experience in Israel.

Raymonda Tawil is a prominent Palestinian writer and journalist known for her significant contributions to literature and journalism. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her insightful writings on various socio-political issues, particularly in relation to Palestine. Tawil's work reflects a deep understanding of the complexities of the region and she has been a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights. Her writing is characterized by its thought-provoking analysis and compelling narratives, making her a respected figure in the field of journalism.

Martin van Creveld is an Israeli military historian and theorist known for his extensive contributions to the field. He has authored numerous books on military strategy, history, and theory, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the study of warfare. Van Creveld's work often challenges conventional military doctrines and explores the social and political aspects of warfare. He has lectured at various prestigious institutions worldwide and continues to influence military thinking with his insightful analyses and unique perspectives.

Avrom Sutzkever was an acclaimed Yiddish poet known for his significant contributions to Holocaust literature. His work captured the horrors of the Holocaust while also celebrating the resilience of the human spirit. Sutzkever's poetry resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him the reputation as one of the most prominent Yiddish poets of the 20th century. He was a prolific writer and his powerful verses continue to be studied and admired for their profound impact on Jewish literature and cultural heritage.

Ghada Karmi is a prominent Palestinian academic, physician, and author known for her insightful writings on Palestinian issues. She has contributed to various reputable newspapers and magazines such as The Guardian, The Nation, and Journal of Palestine Studies. With a focus on raising awareness and providing perspectives on the Palestinian cause, Karmi's work has been widely recognized for its depth and impact. Her expertise and dedication to shedding light on Palestinian struggles have solidified her reputation as a respected figure in academic and journalistic circles.

Samīħ al-Qāsim al Kaissy was a prominent Palestinian poet known for his influential work in the Arab world. He began his career with a focus on Arab nationalism, but later shifted towards joining the Israeli Communist Party after the Six-Day War in 1967. His poetry often addressed themes of resistance, exile, and the Palestinian struggle for independence. Al-Qasim's writing was characterized by its powerful imagery, emotional depth, and commitment to social justice, making him a significant figure in Arabic literature.

Israel Beer, also known as Captain José Gregorio, was an Austrian-born Israeli citizen with a background as a former lieutenant colonel in the IDF. He worked as a senior employee in the Israeli Ministry of Defense and was recognized for his expertise in military history. Beer was employed to write a book on the history of the 1947–1949 Palestine war and was a well-known military commentator. Despite his professional accomplishments, his involvement in espionage activities for the Soviet Union remained shrouded in mystery.

Amir Aczel was an Israeli-born American lecturer specializing in mathematics, the history of mathematics, and science. He was renowned for his engaging lectures and popular books on mathematics and science, which made complex topics accessible to a wider audience. Aczel's professional life was dedicated to educating and inspiring others through his work as an author and speaker. He played a significant role in promoting a greater understanding of mathematics and science among the general public, leaving a lasting impact on both fields.

Rabbi Adin Even-Israel Steinsaltz was an Israeli Chabad Chasidic rabbi known for his significant contributions as a teacher, philosopher, social critic, author, translator, and publisher. His notable work includes the Steinsaltz edition of the Talmud, which features a modern Hebrew text with a detailed commentary to aid in learning. This edition has been translated into several languages, including English, French, Russian, and Spanish. Additionally, he received prestigious awards such as the Israel Prize for Jewish Studies and made a lasting impact on Jewish scholarship worldwide.

Leah Goldberg was a prolific Hebrew-language poet, author, playwright, literary translator, illustrator, and painter. Her diverse talents also extended to comparative literary research. She is renowned for her contributions to Israeli literature, with her works becoming classics in the field. Through her writing and creativity, Goldberg left a lasting impact on the literary landscape, showcasing a deep understanding of language and culture. Her multifaceted professional pursuits encompassed various forms of artistic expression, solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in Israeli literary history.

Dareen Tatour, a Palestinian poet, social media activist, and photographer, writes in Arabic. In 2018, she faced a five-month prison sentence from an Israeli court due to her contentious social media posts. Despite this, in 2019, she received recognition for her commitment to freedom of expression by being awarded the prestigious Oxfam Novib/PEN Award for Freedom of Expression. Tatour's professional life is marked by her dedication to using her platform to raise awareness and advocate for social justice, particularly in the face of adversity.

Uri Zvi Greenberg was a prominent Israeli poet, journalist, and politician known for his works in Yiddish and Hebrew. He was recognized as one of the greatest poets in Israel's history, receiving prestigious awards such as the Israel Prize and the Bialik Prize multiple times for his contributions to fine literature. Greenberg is celebrated for his role as a leading figure in modernist Expressionism within Hebrew and Yiddish literature, solidifying his legacy as a significant representative of this literary movement.

Amira Hass is an Israeli journalist and author renowned for her insightful columns in the newspaper Haaretz. With a focus on Palestinian affairs in Gaza and the West Bank, she has resided in the region for nearly three decades. Hass is known for her in-depth reporting, shedding light on the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Her work provides valuable perspectives and challenges prevailing narratives, contributing significantly to the understanding of the political and social dynamics in the region.

Yoram Kaniuk was a multifaceted Israeli professional known for his contributions to literature, art, journalism, and theatre criticism. As a writer, he produced a diverse body of work that included novels, essays, and translations. Kaniuk's painting skills were also highly regarded, showcasing his artistic talent beyond the written word. In addition, his critical insights as a theatre critic added depth to the cultural discourse in Israel. Through his various professional endeavors, Kaniuk left a lasting impact on the arts and literary scene.

Emile Habibi was a prominent Palestinian-Israeli writer of Arabic literature and a politician. He served as a member of the Knesset representing the communist parties Maki and Rakah. Throughout his career, he was known for his literary works that focused on the experiences of Palestinians in Israel. Habibi's writing often tackled complex themes such as identity, politics, and social justice. His involvement in politics allowed him to advocate for the rights of marginalized communities and promote peace and coexistence in the region.

S. Yizhar was a prominent Israeli writer and politician, recognized for his significant contributions to Israeli literature. He was honored with the prestigious Israel Prize in 1959 for his outstanding work in fine literature. Throughout his political career, Yizhar served in the Knesset under Mapai for nearly two decades, from 1949 to 1967. His dedication to both writing and politics showcased his multifaceted talents and commitment to shaping Israeli society through his literary and legislative endeavors.

Anton Shammas is a renowned Palestinian poet, writer, and translator proficient in English, Hebrew, and Arabic languages. Notable for co-founding and editing the Arabic magazine called "The East" from 1971 to 1976, Shammas has received prestigious accolades such as the Whiting Award and Lila Wallace Writers' Award. His celebrated novel "Arabesques" has been translated into multiple languages, including Spanish, English, French, and German. Through his literary works and editorial contributions, Shammas has made a significant impact on the global literary landscape.

Amos Kenan was a versatile Israeli artist known for his contributions as a columnist, painter, sculptor, playwright, and novelist. Throughout his professional life, he engaged in various forms of artistic expression, showcasing his creativity and talent across different mediums. As a columnist, he shared his perspectives on various topics, while his work as a painter and sculptor allowed him to visually convey his ideas. His plays and novels further demonstrated his storytelling abilities and artistic vision, leaving a lasting impact on Israeli culture and the arts.

Moshe Shamir was a prominent Israeli author, playwright, opinion writer, and public figure known for his significant contributions to Israeli literature. He gained recognition for his work as the author of the play that served as the basis for the Israeli film "He Walked Through the Fields." Through his writing and public engagements, Shamir left a lasting impact on Israeli culture and society, showcasing his talent for storytelling and his ability to provoke thought and reflection among his audience.

Samira Saraya is a multi-talented Israeli Palestinian artist excelling in film, television, and theater as an actor, filmmaker, poet, rapper, and spoken word artist. With a diverse skill set, she has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry through compelling performances and creative works. Saraya's versatility is evident in her ability to seamlessly transition between various art forms, showcasing her passion for storytelling and artistic expression. Her impactful presence in the industry has garnered recognition for her talent and unique perspective.

Elias Sanbar is a prominent Palestinian historian, essayist, poet, translator, and diplomat. Since 2012, he has been serving as the Palestinian ambassador to UNESCO. He played a crucial role in founding and editing the prestigious publication, Revue d'études palestiniennes (The Journal of Palestine Studies) for 25 years. Sanbar's book, The Palestinians, received the esteemed Palestine Book Awards in 2015. Additionally, he is recognized for his translation work, particularly for translating the poetry of renowned Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish into French.

Amalia Kahana-Carmon was an accomplished Israeli author and literary critic known for her significant contributions to literature. She received the prestigious Israel Prize in 2000 in recognition of her outstanding work in the field. Throughout her professional life, she demonstrated a keen insight into literature and a unique writing style that captured the attention of readers and critics alike. Her impact on Israeli literature continues to be felt, cementing her legacy as a highly respected figure in the literary world.

Amos Elon was a prominent Israeli journalist and author known for his insightful commentary on Israeli society and politics. Throughout his career, he contributed to various publications, including Haaretz and The New York Review of Books. Elon's writing often focused on the complexities of Israeli history, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the challenges facing the country. His work was highly regarded for its depth of analysis and critical perspective, making him a respected voice in Israeli intellectual circles.

Zohra Al Fassiya was a pioneering Moroccan singer and poet, known as the queen of the melhoun and gharnati genres. She was the first female recording artist in Morocco, with songs widely celebrated in Morocco and Algeria. Al Fassiya collaborated with musicians and lyricists, and her secular songs were later adapted into religious Jewish liturgical music. She had her own orchestra, wrote her songs, and released numerous albums. Despite facing discrimination in Israel, she continued to perform within the Moroccan immigrant community.

Avraham Shlonsky was an Israeli poet and editor known for his significant contributions to modern Hebrew literature. He played a crucial role in shaping Hebrew literature in Israel through his acclaimed translations of literary classics, particularly from Russian, and his original Hebrew children's classics. Renowned for his humor and clever linguistic innovations, Shlonsky earned the nickname "Lashonsky" for his wit and astuteness in developing the evolving Hebrew language. His professional life was marked by a dedication to advancing Hebrew literature and language.

Nechama Leibowitz was an Israeli Bible scholar and commentator known for rekindling interest in Bible study. She developed a unique teaching method that involved sending out weekly study sheets to thousands of students. Leibowitz's approach emphasized close reading and analysis of the biblical text, encouraging students to think critically and engage deeply with the material. She also held public study sessions and lectures, influencing a generation of scholars and students with her passion for and dedication to the study of the Bible.