Long considered by many scholars to be the first picaresque novel (or the precursor of all such novels), Lazarillo de Tormes made its initial appearance in Spain in the middle of the 16th century, on the heels of an era of novels of chivalry and romance. Despite the Inquisition's disapproval, this brief, simply told tale of a young rogue's adventures and misadventures became popular immediately and defied attempts to suppress it. Ever since, it has been recognized as one of the gems of Spanish literature, full of laconic cynicism and spiced with puns and word play. Stanley Appelbaum's fine new English translation, on pages facing the Spanish original, brings Lazarillo and his adventures to a new audience. Further enhanced by an informative introduction and notes, this new edition will be welcomed by students and teachers of Spanish and will be a special treat for all readers who love picaresque tales.