David Grossman at a peace rally in Tel Aviv, August 2014. (photo from Ashernet)
Israeli author David Grossman will be awarded the highest Israeli civilian honour, the Israel Prize, which is presented on Yom Ha’atzmaut (April 19) in Jerusalem.
Grossman is one of Israel’s most celebrated and prolific authors; his books have been translated into more than 35 languages.
Born in Jerusalem in 1954 and educated at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Grossman has always been connected to the Israeli peace movement. He and his wife lost one of their sons in 2006 during the Lebanese War – Uri, a tank commander, was killed by an anti-tank missile shortly before the ceasefire.
Speaking about Grossman following the announcement of the prize, Education Minister Naftali Bennett said, “David Grossman is one of the most exciting, profound and influential voices in Israeli literature. With deep wisdom, sensitivity to fellow human beings and a unique linguistic style, he has become an internationally renowned artist. We are honoured that he is one of our own.”
– Edgar Asher, Ashernet
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Is there an inspiring newcomer in your life? Do they have a story that should be heard and celebrated? Canadian Immigrant and RBC are now calling on nominations for the 10th annual RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards. This will be the fourth year there is an Entrepreneur Award and the second year for the Youth Award. New this year is the Settlement Agency Award, for agencies excelling in helping newcomers integrate and succeed in Canada.
A nominee can be anyone who has immigrated to Canada and has since contributed to the success and uplifting of this country and/or its people. Achievements can be professional or personal. Nominees must hold landed immigrant (permanent resident) or citizen status in Canada, and must reside here.
Nominations can be made at canadianimmigrant.ca/rbctop25 until Feb. 26, 11:59 p.m. EST. A list of 75 finalists will be announced in March, after which all Canadians can vote for their favourite nominees. The 25 winners will be announced in June.