This book is for those individuals who would like to learn more about the sophisticated world of ultrafast lasers. It gives a comprehensive view on key features and phenomena involved in pulse generation, manipulation and interaction with matter. The material is presented in a simple and logical manner with bright examples. The topics listed in the Table of Content cover almost all aspects required by advanced university course, but presented in a manner suitable for a reader without special background. - Andrey Bordenyuk, IPG Photonics, Oxford, Massachusetts, USA

Prof. Marcos Dantus' book provides an excellent and easy to follow introduction to ultrafast pulse shaping and applications. This book is very useful for undergraduate students without previous in-depth knowledge of optics, industry professionals, and the curious reader. The easy-to-read and streamlined contents of this book will help the reader to get a taste of how femtosecond pulses play an important role in many applications and of all the subtleties related to their propagation in media. - Marco Arrigoni, Coherent, Inc.

I am excited to see this book in print: it not only gives readers a broad introduction to the basics of lasers, ultrafast pulses, and their manipulation but also motivates the use of ultrafast laser systems in solving real-world problems. Professor Dantus breaks down the complicated science of lasers and ultrashort pulses into a descriptive, almost personal conversation that is approachable to novices and experts alike. Reading through the chapters feels like sitting down with Professor Dantus and having a one-on-one conversation: he clearly communicates the art and science of ultrafast lasers and his excitement and enthusiasm for the subjects shines through. - Conor Evans, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School