This is Agnon's first novel-length work, considered one of the first classics of modern Hebrew literature. It is often compared to Don Quixote in style, structure and theme. this novel features a series of interrelated folktales structured around the adventures of Reb Yudel Hasid, a man of apparent simplicity, but profound faith. This reissue of the original translation is accompanied by a new afterword and review of the critical literature. Translated by I.M. Lask, with a new forward by Jeffrey Saks.