Vertex Algebras and Algebraic Curves (Mathematical Surveys and Monographs)
From a review of the First Edition:  "The authors give a deep new insight into the theory of vertex algebras ... many original results, important new concepts and very nice interpretations of structural results in the theory of vertex algebras ... provides a natural link with earlier approaches to vertex algebras ... The authors also present an excellent introduction to the theory of Wakimoto modules and $\mathcal W$-algebras ... contains many new concepts and results that are important for the modern theory of vertex algebras." ---- Mathematical Reviews, Featured Review