In May 2024, we gathered for the SASA Setton Children’s Literature Award Ceremony, held in honor of Philippe Setton Z”L and Hilda Setton.
Hosted at the Microsoft Reactor, the event was profoundly moving, underscoring the importance of celebrating Israeli creativity—especially in these challenging times.
The ceremony was led by Sonia Gomes de Mesquita, representing the Setton donor family, and featured Robert Singer, President and Chairman of SASA Setton; Omer Givati, CEO of SASA Setton; the Perry family; the esteemed judging committee, including author Lihi Lapid ; and other distinguished guests.
This year’s recipient of the SASA Setton Award for Children’s Literature was Two Little Snails, written by Yael Gover and illustrated by Noam Wiener, published by Kinneret Zmora-Bitan Dvir.
Lihi Lapid, a member of the judging committee, shared the rationale behind the selection:
“This book masterfully weaves a sophisticated and enriching dialogue between text and illustration. Exploring Two Little Snails reveals the essence of a truly significant children’s story—one that blends humor with emotion, engages with everyday life, and normalizes diverse ways of existence. With its poetic and social significance, this work is destined to become a cornerstone of Israeli children’s literature.”
The 2024 SASA Setton Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to author and social activist Tamar Verete-Zehavi in recognition of her decades of dedication and creative contribution.
“Tamar Verete-Zehavi’s life’s work revolves around a fundamental principle: promoting values that shape a just, humanistic, and inclusive society,” Lapid noted. “She believes that children’s literature should not obscure reality but rather inspire social awareness and activism. For this, we are honored to present her with this award.”
Congratulations to our talented and inspiring winners!
We remain committed to supporting Israeli culture for the benefit of Israel’s children and society as a whole. See you at next year’s ceremony!
