Farewell to the master of imagination: Ziraldo, the talented creator of 'O Menino Maluquinho', dies at age 91

The designer's family confirmed the news on Saturday afternoon. Ziraldo died in his apartment, located in the Lagoa neighborhood, in the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro.

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Cartoonist, writer and cartoonist, Ziraldo died this Saturday (6) in Rio de Janeiro - Photo Reproduction

Brazil says goodbye to one of its most brilliant literary talents. Ziraldo, the renowned designer and writer, known for creating iconic characters such as "O Menino Maluquinho" and "Turma do Pererê", died at the age of 91. The news was confirmed by the artist's family this Saturday (06). According to information, Ziraldo died while sleeping peacefully at his residence in the Lagoa neighborhood, in the South Zone of Rio, around 3 pm.

In addition to his contributions as a cartoonist and writer, he also stood out as a cartoonist, caricaturist and journalist. In the 1960s, he was one of the founders of the newspaper "O Pasquim", recognized as one of the main vehicles of resistance to the military dictatorship in Brazil.

Ziraldo

In the Brazilian children's literature scene, few names shone as brightly as Ziraldo's. Recognized as a master of imagination, Ziraldocaptivated generations with its remarkable stories and unforgettable characters, leaving a legacy that transcends time. Ziraldo Alves Pinto, born in Caratinga, Minas Gerais, on October 24, 1932, was a multifaceted writer, cartoonist, journalist and painter. His genius overflowed in different forms of artistic expression, but it was in the world of children's literature that he achieved a prominent place, winning over children and adults with his engaging narratives and his unique style.

Ziraldo's first drawing was published at the age of six, in 1939, in the newspaper "A Folha de Minas". His career began in the 1950s, in the magazine "Once upon a time...". In 1954, started creating a humor page for the same newspaper where it debuted. He graduated in Law from the Faculty of Law of Minas Gerais, in Belo Horizonte, in 1957, the same year in which he joined the team of the magazines "A Cigarra" and, later, "O Cruzeiro".

In 1958, he married his girlfriend of seven years, Vilma Gontijo, with whom he had three children: Daniela, Fabrizia and Antônio. During the following decade, he also gained prominence in "Jornal do Brasil", where he continued to publish political cartoons and cartoons, as well as in "The Cruise". It was at this time that he created characters such as Jeremias, the Good, Supermãe and Mineirinho.

Among the works that consecrated Ziraldo, "O Menino Maluquinho", published in 1980 and considered one of the biggest phenomena in the Brazilian publishing market at all times. This charming story tells the adventures of the little protagonist who, with his fertile imagination and captivating personality, has won the hearts of readers of all ages. Maluquinho Boy, with his red cap and irreverent manner, became an icon of national literature, inspiring not only readers, but also adaptations for cinema, theater and television.

In addition to "O Menino Maluquinho", Ziraldo presented the public with several other equally memorable works, such as "Flicts", "O Planeta Lilás", "A Turma do Pererê". The protagonists consisted of a young indigenous man and a variety of animals that make up the rich Brazilian folkloric universe, including the jaguar, the tortoise, the armadillo, the rabbit and the owl. The publication of the magazine was interrupted in 1964, coinciding with the beginning of the military regime. Five years later, Ziraldo and other comedians founded "O Pasquim". Among his works, "O Bichinho da Maçã" also stands out, which won him the Jabuti award, in 1982, for the best art book.

All of her stories are loaded with her trademark creativity and sensitivity. Ziraldo was not only a storyteller, but also was an agent of social transformation. His work reflected his worldview, permeated by values ​​such as friendship, solidarity, respect and diversity. Through his narratives, he inspired generations to dream, question and believe in a better world.

Farewell

Ziraldo's departure leaves an immense void in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing his stories and being touched by his art. However, his legacy will last forever, immortalized in the pages of his books and in the hearts of his readers. Mauricio, the creator of "Turma da Mônica", shared a series of photos of the two together and expressed his regret: "How sad! I have no words. I lost more than a great friend. I lost a brother. Of the letters, the lines and the life!".

But he will always be here in my heart. And in the hearts of millions of crazy Brazilians, of all ages, who will remain in love with his work. Long live, Ziraldo!, he concluded.

Early Saturday evening, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) expressed his regret over the death of cartoonist Ziraldo. In his words, Lula highlighted the remarkable trajectory of the creator of "O Menino Maluquinho" and praised his connection with the political sphere.

"Brazil lost this Saturday, 6/4, one of its greatest exponents of culture, the press, children's literature and the country's imagination. Cartoonist, caricaturist, writer and journalist, Ziraldo from Minas Gerais is a ubiquitous name in Brazilian popular culture" , began the president. Maluquinho Boy, his best-known character, filled the minds and imagination of children of all ages in all regions. A book that became a film, plays, set songs and has been passed from parents to children as a synonym of innocence, curiosity and beauty, as well as a hopeful look at the immense potential of the world in which we live", continued Lula.

Transitioning to the political field, the PT member evoked Ziraldo's contribution to the newspaper O Pasquim, recognized for his stance of opposition to the military regime during the dictatorship era in Brazil.

"Ziraldo's contributions are countless and diverse, whether with Pererê's group, in his work leading Pasquim, in the years of the dictatorship, in unforgettable books, such as Flicts, and in extensive work in Brazilian magazines and newspapers. In defense of imagination, of a fairer Brazil, with democracy and freedom of expression", said Lula, who ends the text by expressing solidarity with the cartoonist's family.

As we say goodbye to this great master of imagination, it is impossible not to remember the words of his own character, The Crazy Boy: "Living is better than dreaming." Ziraldo lived intensely, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire and enchant future generations, keeping the flame of imagination and love of reading alive. May his example continue to light the paths of those who dare to dream and create, just as he did so brilliantly throughout his life.