Inspired by the impact of technology on children’s daily lives, writer Giovanna Mazetto presents Pela Telajanela ( Sowilo Editora), a work that encourages children to explore their imagination and the world around them. Through the story of ZéGui , a boy who discovers the wonders outside the screen, the book proposes a return to analog experiences and reinforces the importance of parents and educators in encouraging moments away from technology.
Giovanna, in Pela Telajanela , you introduce us to ZéGui , a boy who lives immersed in technology. What inspired you to create a story that so closely addresses the reality of today’s children, so connected to screens?
Observing everyday life is my greatest source of inspiration, and in Pela Telajanela it was even more so. The story came to me on the way from school to our house, when I was trying to get my youngest son to tell me about his day, to observe the flowers on the trees, the people on the street and the cars that passed by. Since he didn’t respond because he was focused on his tablet, I stopped the car and said, “Look at the dinosaur!” He laughed so hard.
The work invites us to look at the world outside the screens, observing what is around us. For you, what is the biggest challenge in creating a story that is capable of awakening children’s curiosity and imagination in such a digitalized world?
I know there is competition between the digital world and more traditional activities, such as reading and playing outdoors, board games, sports, but my impression is that if adults set an example and are willing to spend time with children doing these activities, children migrate quite easily and realize, for themselves, the advantages of a life outside of screens.
The book Pela Telajanela creates a certain identification with children right from the start, as the situation experienced by ZéGui is very common and, when fantasy enters — the circus elements or the dinosaurs, for example — then the children immerse themselves in the story and then recognize that screens sometimes take up all their attention and make them stay away from what really matters.
You highlight the importance of contact between adults and children without the interference of technology. How do you think we can, as a society, balance the digital and physical worlds in a healthy way for the new generations?
We all need to rethink our relationship with technology, and I believe this is already happening. Take, for example, the recent ban on cell phones in schools. It is up to adults to set an example and create moments away from screens, moments of mindfulness and listening. Children are very sensitive and can tell when we are just listening without really listening, and they can tell when our concerns are elsewhere.
I believe that small actions can create lasting positive impacts. At the end of Pela Telajanela , ZéGui ‘s family proposes a series of activities and changes to escape digital and control the time spent using electronic devices.

In the book, the child learns to value the simple act of looking out the window. In your opinion, what can children, and even adults, learn by slowing down and observing what is around them, without the rush of constant connectivity?
The pleasure and learning that can come from simply looking outside are immense. When we slow down, we make room for curiosity, imagination, and emotional connection. Children can learn to appreciate nature, small social interactions, and even the dynamics of cities. Adults can rediscover the pleasure of the present moment, something so important for mental health. Observing what is around us helps us build stories, create memories, and live more fully.
What do you believe Pela Telajanela can offer parents, educators and caregivers who are concerned about the impact of technology on children’s lives, especially when it comes to balancing fun, learning and distraction?
The book can be a tool to start important conversations. It helps illustrate the impact that technology has on children’s lives and how balance is possible. The narrative offers a way to discuss the topic without seeming too imposing or didactic. By showing ZéGui ‘s journey , Pela Telajanela inspires parents and educators to propose activities that encourage interaction with the real or imaginary world, creating meaningful moments away from screens. It is also a reminder to adults that the example we set is essential to model behavior.
The character ZéGui , upon realizing the beauty of the real world, begins to open his mind to new discoveries. How do you see the transformation of children who, like ZéGui , distance themselves a little from the screens? What do you hope readers will learn from this process?
The transformation that occurs when a child disconnects from screens for a while is surprising. They start to interact more, use their imagination more freely and explore creativity in activities that might have been ignored before. I was delighted the other day when, at a party (for adults), the children got together to play hide-and-seek and blind man’s bluff, without any guidance. As soon as they were not offered any screens, they organized themselves and played all night long.
ZéGui is also an example of this: when he looks at the world outside the screen, he discovers many possibilities. I hope readers realize that balance is possible and that there is much to be discovered and experienced away from electronics .
You have a career as a writer with works that speak directly to children and young people. How did your experience with the book Pela Telajanela shape your view on the role of literature in the education and emotional development of children?
Pela Telajanela reinforced for me the power of literature as a bridge between what children experience and what they can learn. It is a means of creating empathy, reflection and connection with relevant topics in a light and accessible way. During the writing process, I realized how well-constructed stories can be valuable instruments in emotional education, helping children deal with issues such as limits, patience, curiosity and their relationship with technology. The book also reaffirmed my belief that literature can be a meeting place between children and adults, creating moments of dialogue and mutual learning. And lots of fun, of course.
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