The author succeeds admirably in his goal of providing an introduction to semigroup theory suitable for graduate students and non-specialists. At the same time, specialists will also find much to attract them. The book is highly readable, and the author takes pain to lead the reader gently through the longer proofs. I am sure that all specialists will want to own a copy of the book, that non-specialists will find it a most attractive and useful book for consulting, and that for many years to come research students will learn their subject from this book. * Bulletin of the London Mathematical Society *
The book provides a useful survey of a rapidly developing topic and is suitable for specialists and as an introduction to the subject for non-specialists and graduate students. * Aslib Book Guide, vol.61, no.5, May 1996. *
This book will still have its outstanding place as a general introduction to semigroup theory offering both an updated overview of the subject and a suitable entree for the graduate student * Monatshefte fur Mathematik Vol. 124 1997 *
With this well-written and well-organised book I think the author has ensured that "Howie" will continue to be a byword for semigroup books * Edinburgh Mathematical Society 1997 *