J R Worsley
Published by Worsley Inc., England, 2004
Paperback, 109 pages, £13
Available from: The Worsley Institute Of Classical Five-Element Acupuncture: www.worsleyinstitute.org
UK Tel No: 020 8623 9009

(Reviewed by Liz Pinder-Ayres, EJOM Vol. 5 No. 2)

The basic content of J R Worsley Talking About Acupuncture in New York remains the same as previous editions; an unedited transcript of the original talk, given in 1980 by J R Worsley, practitioner for over 58 years and Master of Classical Five-Element Acupuncture (CF-EA). Reading this book is like stepping back in time, yet no updating is needed because the content is as universally relevant today as it was 25 years ago.

J R Worsley gives a succinct, clear, and simple overview of Classical Five-Element Acupuncture (CF-EA) and its roots in nature.  He takes the reader on a journey, introducing and detailing each of CF-EA’s basic laws in turn. It is uncompromising and direct, yet gains rapport with the reader by skilfully using humour, real life stories, metaphor and illustrations from nature. What stands out is his unwavering determination to share this ancient lineage. 

Talking about Acupuncture In New York provides the opportunity for those who have not heard him speak or who wish to hear him again, to understand CF-EA, his mastery of the subject and to experience the man himself; his warmth, humour and understanding and love for humanity. As a reader I feel I am in a private audience with him every time I open the cover.

In addition to the original transcript, this memorial edition has a moving dedication by his wife, Judy Becker Worsley, whom he designated as his successor, and several pages of memorials by practitioners who have worked with him over the years. These testaments reveal what this man brought to the western world and how much he was loved and respected. 

Talking About Acupuncture in New York is a ‘really good read’, and can be understood and enjoyed by practitioners, students, patients and the general public.

If you or your patients want to know more about the basic concepts of this system of medicine and have fun doing it, this is THE book to read. 

Liz Pinder-Ayres
Liz Pinder-Ayres graduated from the School of Five Element Acupuncture (SOFEA), in 1998 having previously had a successful career in education as a Headteacher of an inner London primary school, Senior Lecturer in Education and Education Consultant. For several years after graduation she was a tutor and year co-ordinator at SOFEA and also an acupuncture member of the British Acupuncture Accreditation Board’s Accreditation Committee. She currently runs a successful London acupuncture practice and, since qualifying, studied extensively with J R Worsley. She is a member of the Worsley Institute of Classical Five-Element Acupuncture.