When it was originally published (as The Laws of Scientific Hand Reading), Benham’s book immediately transformed the image of palm reading from a huckster’s trick to a practice with a firm scientific basis. It quickly became an essential reference work for anyone serious about palm reading. The Essential Work shows and explains all facets of palmistry thoroughly in language anyone can understand.

The Essential Work brings Benham’s original text back in print. It also updates many of the graphics, (more than 400 illustrations and photographs), which have become obscured through numerous printings. Benham’s words remain as viable today as they were 100 years ago, as they form the foundation of modern palmistry.