Tooth fairy, the Mouse?

As children, we grew up knowing and believing in the Tooth fairy. When one of our teeth came out, we would place it under our pillow and the next morning the Tooth fairy would have given us a coin in its place -- much to our delight.

Spanish and many Latin American children grow up knowing a much different character: el Ratoncito Pérez (Pérez Mouse). This cute little mouse would take a child's tooth which was placed under their pillow. They too would receive a coin or trinket in exchange. It takes many variations from country to country. This time honored creature originated in 1894 in Madrid. In some parts of Mexico, Peru and Chile, he is known as el Ratón de los Dientes (the Tooth Mouse). Other countries such as Italy and France have variations on this little rodent and what he is called in their respective cultures.

The original Ratoncito Pérez had a small sword and sort of a white knight look. Back in 2006, director Juan Pablo Buscarini recreated this fabled mouse into a live action movie. The Argentine director updated the mouse to a more modern look and story line. In 2008, a sequel came out for all to enjoy.

As I've mentioned in my book, So You Want to Learn Spanish?, a wonderful way to learn the language is by learning its cultural aspects and real-life situations. Why not enjoy these two films in Spanish? I did not find them on Netflix, Hulu, or Vudu to stream, but you can watch the trailer to the sequel on YouTube here in Spanish:
http://youtu.be/dQsXTEv9sXU.

You can purchase the original movie on blu-ray through Amazon at this link:
http://www.amazon.com/Hairy-ratoncito-sue%C3%B1os-Blu-Ray-Import/dp/B003RD9I1Y/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1366494749&sr=8-2&keywords=el+ratoncito+perez.

Of course, you'll find a few children's books through Amazon too starring Ratón Pérez. Either way, I hope you spend some time seeking out Spanish to watch, listen and/or read. It will help you with getting the exposure you need to the language, but also help you delve into the understanding of another culture slightly different than your own. What a wonderful way to get in touch with your childhood and improve your Spanish!

¡Hasta luego!
~Keith