Juan Bobo's Pig

My favorite folktale would have to be Juan Bobo's Pig (page 4). First told to me by my grandfather in Puerto Rico, I've learned to love this story. Growing up watching Disney retell many folktales and going to school in Detroit learning many African American folktales there were not many Hispanic folktales told.

Juan Bobo's Pig is compelling to me because it's used in our everyday life as Puerto Ricans. The phrase, parece al puerco de Juan Bobo, is often used in our language, and unless you know the story it serves no meaning. It is referenced in conversation, and is assumed that those around would know what it meant.

The story also is interesting as it creates a relationship between a young boy and a pig. Pigs tend to not be the first animal writers/storytellers would choose for a story. However, it is vital in this story for the animal to be a pig, due to its reputation in society.

There is nothing like a folktale that comes from your own land or culture. Although I do have plenty of other folktales that are from other walks of life, nothing is like my Juan Bobo's Pig.