This lively new translation of the most famous among La Fonatine's celebrated fables captures the wit and nuances of the original, showing how La Fontaine deals with universal themes in a deeply human, wise, and yet irrepressibly humorous way. The selection--including 110 of the original 240 fables--spans La Fontaine's long writing life and shows his progression from short, charming tales for children to longer, more philosophical fables. Including a parallel French text, a full introduction, and extensive notes, this edition is perfect for all lovers of poetry.