Israeli Children's Literature about People with Disabilities

In an open letter addressed to Israeli educators, Rabbi Shai Piron, then Education Minister, announced the theme of the 2013-14 academic year to be 'Him Is Me'. As part of the implementation of Piron's programme, the Ministry published a list of recommended children's books about 'the Other', which is still used by educators. This article reflects upon and analyses books for ages four to eight included in this list that focus on children with disabilities. At first glance, it seems that the books call for full social inclusion of disabled children, thereby accomplishing the goals set by the ministry. However, a thorough textual analysis raises questions as to the true messages hidden between the lines of some of the works, questions about how far 'otherness' is embraced and acknowledged.