In the shrewd, comical spirit of Peter Mayle and Bill Bryson, Derek Lambert discovers the charms and idiosyncrasies of Spain as he experiences the rewards and frustrations of beginning a new life there. 

As Lambert and his wife set about restoring their moldering casita on Spain’s Mediterranean Costa Blanca and learning to live the life of Spanish villagers, he introduces us to a nation far removed from the matadors, tapas bars, and sangria swillers. He uncovers the “real” Spain–a nation of passionate, eccentric, often contradictory, but always enchanting people. Unpredictable, often hilarious, and animated by colorful characters, Spanish Lessons presents an intimate and delightful portrait of off-the-tourist-track Spain. “Lambert makes for an affable companion as we follow his first tentative days in a new country. It’s an entertaining yarn, and for anyone with a love for Spain and Spanish culture, an essential item to add to your bookshelf.” –Chicago Tribune

“In the tradition of A Year in Provence and Under the Tuscan Sun, [Derek Lambert] provides vivid descriptions of an entirely unique cultural landscape. [A] delightfully wry narrative…chock —full of breathtaking comical escapades and authentically colorful characters, this affectionately humorous memoir will appeal to both seasoned and armchair travelers.” –Booklist