Introduces the basic theory of quantum groups, and the use of crystal bases as combinatorial tools for studying representations of quantum groups. The textbook focuses on quantum groups that appear as deformations of universal enveloping algebras of Kac-Moody algebras. Crystal graphs for classical Lie algebras, the theory of solvable lattice models, and the combinatorics of Young walls are also developed. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)