Pages or Pixels - Reigniting Literary Passion in the Digital Age of Smart Phones

In today’s modern digital era, we are living in the age of Gen-Z—where every hand holds a smartphone and every pocket carries access to the internet. There was a time when the fragrance of books, the calm of libraries, and the magic of stories allowed children to wander through the world of fiction, using their imagination as their guide. These experiences played a vital role in shaping their thoughts and creativity. But now, the glow of screens and the endless scroll of reels and videos have replaced that world. As a result, many—especially children—have forgotten the true essence of books, often spending hours lost in passive screen time instead of meaningful reading.

Over time, there has been a drastic shift in children's interests. In earlier days, children spent their leisure hours reading comics and storybooks, immersing themselves in tales of Tenali Rama, Panchatantra, Chacha Chaudhary, and many more. They were curious, eager to discover new stories and explore different worlds through words. Today, however, that curiosity has been overshadowed by smartphones, social media, and online gaming. This shift from pages to pixels—driven by technological advancements—may be inevitable, but it has also contributed to a noticeable decline in children's love for literature. Instead of engaging with enriching stories, many now spend their time scrolling and gaming, gradually drifting away from the joy and value of reading.

This change not only affects children's education but also impacts their imagination, language development, and emotional intelligence. Books are not just a means of acquiring knowledge; they also nurture the ability to think critically, understand deeply, and reflect meaningfully. When a child reads a story, they visualize the characters, plot, and setting in their minds—an exercise that stimulates imagination. However, today, this imaginative process is being replaced by ready-made visuals on screens, leaving children with little need to think creatively or imagine for themselves.

Another major disadvantage is that reading books offers children a magical treasure trove of words and the ability to think independently. In contrast, mobile screens are causing children to spend most of their time on smartphones, distancing them from the world of literature and keeping them unaware of their potential passion for it. Literature is more than just books—it is a way of life that imparts wisdom, nurtures empathy, and teaches valuable lessons across many aspects of human experience.

At this critical time, we must reflect and take meaningful steps to shift children’s focus from screens to books, nurturing their passion and love for literature. This transformation should begin at home—through bedtime stories told by parents, not by mobile phones, and through warm, engaging verbal communication. Visiting libraries or attending book fairs with your children can also open up a world of stories and ideas, encouraging them to explore the joy of reading.

Schools and teachers play a crucial role in this journey. They can encourage children to write their own stories using imagination, write book reviews, and engage in discussions or debates about what they read. A library should not merely be a place to store books, but a space that fosters curiosity, learning, and the exchange of ideas. Teachers should actively support students in developing a deeper interest in reading and related activities, helping them grow both intellectually and emotionally.

E-books and audiobooks are gaining popularity in today’s digital world. While it may be challenging to create a clear boundary between screens and children, it is certainly possible—with love, guidance, and support from parents and elders. By encouraging children to read physical books, caregivers can help them gradually shift their interest toward storybooks. Every small effort counts. Even simple changes can protect children—not only from losing touch with literature, but also from potential harm to their eyesight and overall well-being.

If we want our children to grow up imaginative and thoughtful, we must bring them closer to books—a world where words speak, emotions are stirred, and imagination takes flight. This rich experience can only be truly offered through books, not screens. It is our collective responsibility to help children understand that books are not just tools for gaining knowledge, but gateways to self-discovery. The right stories not only inspire creativity but also instill strong values and moral lessons that shape character and conscience.

We must not forget that books open up a world that guides children toward discipline, motivation, and a meaningful direction in life. Books have a profound impact—they shape young minds and deeply influence their thoughts and actions. Children are like wet clay, ready to be molded. Just as a potter shapes the clay, parents and books together have the power to shape a child’s mind, behavior, and character. With the right influence, children can grow into thoughtful, imaginative, and responsible individuals.

The debate between pixels and pages is ongoing and relevant. As times change, it's important to reconnect the younger generation with literature. While both digital media and printed books have their own merits and drawbacks, the emotional connection a child forms with a physical book is unmatched by a screen. Digital platforms have made information more accessible, engaging, and interactive—through animations, sound, and voiceovers. However, they have also increased screen time, contributing to issues like eye strain and reduced attention spans. In contrast, reading storybooks offers a screen-free experience that allows for deeper focus and can be enjoyed for longer periods without harm.

This generation needs to rediscover how books can be made “cool.” Modern storybooks with vibrant illustrations and creative formats can make reading more appealing to young minds. But beyond aesthetics, children must understand that true imagination—the kind that helps them dream big and reach for the skies—comes from within, not from screens. Stories are treasures filled with words, wisdom, and moral values. To reduce screen time and revive a love for reading, parents and elders must take the initiative. With their support, the fragrance of books can return to children's lives, dimming the glare of pixels and bringing back peace, creativity, and lasting joy.

In conclusion, while technology has its advantages, it has also negatively impacted children and their habits—causing many to forget the joy and fragrance of books. Books are more than just reading material; they are a gift from elders that guide children to read, reflect, and explore themselves. Reading nurtures emotional intelligence, stirs imagination, and introduces young minds to new ideas, concepts, and values. In today’s fast-paced world, it is more important than ever to reconnect children with books and literature.

This journey must begin early, with parents, teachers, and elders fostering a reading habit from childhood—through bedtime stories, regular visits to the library, and engaging creative activities. To make books more appealing or “cool,” we can blend traditional reading with digital illustrations and interactive storytelling, without relying on screens for passive consumption.

By taking these small but meaningful steps, we can rekindle children’s love for books and empower them to develop strong minds and rich imaginations. The road may be long, but every effort matters—because every story read today can shape a brighter, more thoughtful tomorrow.

Tripti Bansal

B.A. (English), JIMS