Alona Frankel is a renowned writer and illustrator who has captivated audiences with her over 40 children's books and numerous poetic memoirs for young adults. She has received prestigious awards such as the Prime Minister's Prize for Hebrew Literary Works and the Jacob Buchman Memorial Foundation Prize for Holocaust Literature. Her autobiographical memoirs, Girl, Teen, and Woman, provide poignant insights into her experiences as a Holocaust survivor during World War II in Poland.
Alona Frankel's early life was marked by the horrors of the Holocaust. She spent much of her youth in the Lwów Ghetto or in hiding, enduring unimaginable hardships. Despite the adversity she faced, she displayed remarkable resilience and courage. In 1949, she immigrated to Israel with her family, seeking a new beginning. Alona later pursued her passion for art by studying at the Avni Institute in Tel Aviv.
Alona Frankel's career as a children's author and illustrator blossomed when she published her first book in 1975 at the age of 30. Her illustrations captivated readers, bringing her stories to life in vivid detail. Over the years, she has received numerous accolades for her work, including the Hans Christian Andersen Honor Citation and several Parent's Choice Awards. Her book Girl, a poignant memoir of her experiences during the Holocaust, received the Sapir Prize for Literature and Yad Vashem's Buchman Award.
Alona Frankel is the widow of the late artist Zygmunt Frankel and the proud mother of sons Ari and Michael. Her family has been a source of strength and support throughout her life, inspiring her to continue sharing her story with the world.
Alona Frankel's impact as a writer and illustrator extends far beyond her own experiences. Her work has been translated into multiple languages, reaching a global audience. Critics have praised her memoir Girl for its poignant storytelling, comparing it to the works of renowned authors such as Primo Levi and Anne Frank. Through her powerful narratives, Alona Frankel has shed light on the enduring legacy of the Holocaust and the resilience of the human spirit.
Alona Frankel's contributions to children's literature and Holocaust literature have left an indelible mark on readers worldwide. Her powerful storytelling and emotive illustrations continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, serving as a testament to the enduring power of art and storytelling. As a Holocaust survivor, Alona Frankel's memoirs serve as a reminder of the importance of bearing witness to history and honoring the memory of those who perished.