Israel's Ministry of Education published a list of Israeli students' favorite books on Monday, in honor of the annual Parade of Books and Hebrew Book Week.
The list included such titles as Guide to Superheros 2 by Wagens Elias Wolund, Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne, and J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. There were a total of 12 books chosen, a variety of both original Hebrew and translated works.
"Reading books, in addition to being a fun and enriching experience, is also an important educational and social tool."
Minister of Education Yifat Shasha-Biton
High schoolers' favorite books
Among those in the original Hebrew was the 10-12th grade second-place pick, Massouda by Yakir Elkariv, the complicated story of his grandmother, a Jewish woman from Morocco who was raised by her Muslim nurse. The top choice for 10-12th graders was Address Unknown, by Kathrine Taylor, a story told in letters between two German friends from 1932 to 1934.
"Reading allows students to sail to remote locations, be exposed to fascinating cultures and experience ancient traditions; to identify with heroes and inspiring characters, and to arouse their desire to correct social wrongs."
Director-General of the Ministry of Education, Dalit Stauber
This Hebrew Book Week will see literary-themed events throughout the country for elementary and secondary school students of all ages.