"Takes the reader on a journey that covers all the basic science and engineering related to the topic of developing a solid-state laser for common materials processing problems. The emphasis is on addressing the important issues that an optical engineer will encounter in trying to develop, and then apply, a solid-state laser in the context of this field...The author has managed to successfully cover all the salient points without losing sight of the complete picture. I found the book easy to read and technically sound. Entrants to the field will certainly find it a book to keep for future reference." -- OPTICS & PHOTONICS NEWS