Customer Reviews

Unamuno: San Manuel Bueno, Martir (Focus Student Edition) (Spanish Edition)

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Pay close attention to the label--if you're in a high school AP Spanish class or the equivalent, this is a great resource. The famous, highly allegorical Unamuno story, about a priest beloved by his flock yet who doubts the possibility of an afterlife, is of course a classic, and should be read regardless; and this edition provides a good way to read it. It includes helpful biographical and literary introductions, as well as thorough footnotes on vocabulary and some basic footnotes on literary or cultural allusions. Furthermore, all of this is in (reasonably sophisticated) Spanish, which is really important for learners of all levels.

Nonetheless, there were problems. Sometimes the literary/cultural footnotes were too basic for someone with a decent knowledge of Catholicism, history, or Spain; and sometimes there was no footnote where there should have been, for something unclear or obscure. In particular, I was disappointed by the literary editing of the novella: was shocked to see that this edition hadn't included Unamuno's epigraph at the beginning of the story, nor had it divided the story into any sections as other Spanish versions that I've seen, do; the whole story is in one long excerpt, and it can get unclear at times what you're reading, especially at the end.
I'm a university Spanish student, so this edition was a bit basic for me; for University students I'd recommend the Catedra, Letras Hispanicas edition.

I had problems with my mailman who marked my package inadequate address despite it being completely sufficient and this seller sent the book again and I received it SUPER quickly. Such a relief since needing a text book for school is essential. Were also super friendly when I explained the situation to them!!