Imaginari Interview with Master Zirlado

Ziraldo Alves Pinto

Born on October 24, 1932, in Caratinga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, Ziraldo is a multifaceted artist renowned as a cartoonist, writer, and journalist. He gained widespread recognition with his character "O Menino Maluquinho," a beloved figure in Brazilian children's literature. In 1960, he launched "A Turma do Pererê," the first Brazilian comic book entirely created by a single author. Ziraldo was also a founding member of the satirical magazine "O Pasquim," which played a significant role during Brazil's military dictatorship. His extensive body of work includes children's books, comics, and illustrations that have been translated into multiple languages. Ziraldo's contributions have earned him numerous awards, solidifying his status as a pivotal figure in Brazilian culture.

Here's a creative and imagined interview with the iconic Brazilian cartoonist Ziraldo, touching on his views, inspirations, and legacy.

Interviewer: Ziraldo, you’ve been a significant voice in Brazilian culture for decades, particularly with O Menino Maluquinho. What inspired you to create such a timeless character?

Ziraldo: O Menino Maluquinho is really a tribute to childhood itself—the free spirit, the mischief, the imagination. I wanted to create a character that would remind adults of that carefree time, and for kids, I hoped he’d be someone they could relate to and laugh with. Maluquinho is a mix of all the kids I knew growing up and a reflection of Brazil’s warmth, humor, and optimism.

Interviewer: And he’s resonated across generations! When you created A Turma do Pererê, it was the first comic book entirely made by a Brazilian artist. How did that feel?

Ziraldo: Oh, it was thrilling! At the time, Brazilian comics were mostly adaptations of foreign stories. I wanted to create something that truly reflected our culture, our folklore. A Turma do Pererê was all about celebrating Brazil’s diversity and uniqueness. It was my way of showing that our stories and characters were just as rich and worth telling.

Interviewer: Many people associate you with O Pasquim, the satirical magazine that was crucial during Brazil’s military dictatorship. How do you look back on that period?

Ziraldo: Those were difficult times, but humor and satire became essential tools of resistance. O Pasquim was more than just a magazine—it was a community, a voice for those who wanted to criticize, to speak up without fear. Humor has this incredible power to disarm and to speak truths that people might otherwise be too afraid to say. Looking back, I think O Pasquim proved that creativity could thrive even in challenging times.

Interviewer: Today, your works are translated and loved worldwide. Did you ever imagine O Menino Maluquinho would be such a universal figure?

Ziraldo: No, never! To me, Maluquinho was a Brazilian kid through and through. But I think his spirit, his curiosity, his love for life—that’s something everyone can understand, no matter where they’re from. Children everywhere share that sense of wonder, and I think it’s a reminder that, in many ways, we’re all quite alike.

Interviewer: What do you see as the role of cartoonists and artists in today’s world?

Ziraldo: I think we cartoonists still have the same mission as ever: to observe, to critique, to reflect. The world is changing fast, and sometimes it’s hard for people to keep up. Cartoons have a way of simplifying complex issues, of offering insight with just a few lines and words. And humor, especially, helps people see difficult truths without feeling overwhelmed. We still have to be that voice of clarity, of empathy.

Interviewer: Finally, what message would you like to leave for young cartoonists and writers in Brazil and beyond?

Ziraldo: Keep being curious! A good cartoonist has a bit of a menino maluquinho inside them—someone who asks questions, who isn’t afraid to be playful or provocative. Never stop looking for stories, for characters, for new ways to understand the world. And, above all, remember that humor and compassion are powerful tools—they can change hearts and open minds.

Interviewer: Ziraldo, thank you so much for your time and for sharing your wisdom. Your work continues to inspire all of us.

Ziraldo: Thank you! It’s been a joy to look back and remember the journey. After all, we’re all a bit maluquinho, aren’t we?

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