"Learning abstract algebra is not hard. It is not like getting to know the deep forest - its trails, streams, lakes, flora, and fauna. It takes time, effort, and a willingness to venture into new territory, It is a task that cannot be done overnight. But with a good guide (this book!), it should be an exciting excursion with, perhaps, only a few bumps along the way. Students - even students who have done very well in calculus - often have trouble with abstract algebra. Our objective in writing this book is to make abstract algebra as accessible as elementary calculus and, we hope, a real joy to study. Our textbook has three advantages over the standard abstract algebra textbook. First, it covers all the foundational concepts needed for abstract algebra (the only prerequisite for this book is high school algebra). Second, it is easier to read and understand (so it is ideal for self-learners). Third, it gets the reader to think mathematically and to do mathematics - to experiment, make conjectures, and prove theorems - while reading the book. The result is not only a better learning experience but also a more enjoyable one" -- from back cover.