Bridging the gap between traditional books on quantum and statistical physics, this series is an ideal introductory course for students who are looking for an alternative approach to the traditional academic treatment. This pedagogical approach relies heavily on scientific or technological applications from a wide range of fields. For every new concept introduced, an application is given to connect the theoretical results to a real-life situation. Each volume features in-text exercises and detailed solutions, with easy-to-understand applications. This first volume sets the scene of a new physics. It explains where quantum mechanics come from, its connection to classical physics and why it was needed at the beginning of the twentieth century. It examines how very simple models can explain a variety of applications such as quantum wells, thermoluminescence dating, scanning tunnel microscopes, quantum cryptography, masers, and how fluorescence can unveil the past of art pieces.