'Perhaps no other subject of undergraduate mathematics is as challenging to learn (and to teach) as abstract algebra. The high level of abstraction, the sophistication of the logic and the vocabulary, and the deep understanding of mathematical structures required all pose difficulties for the student. Professor Terras has addressed these issues by writing a textbook which, while uncompromising in its rigor and breadth, is also entertaining and full of insights, useful visualizations and historical asides. Many of the applications of modern algebra are explained in a thoughtful way that will help motivate students to study abstract concepts. Recommended as a textbook for the first semester of abstract algebra.' Jenia Tevelev, University of Massachusetts, Amherst