This guide explores every aspect of hand analysis. It begins with an introductory history of palmistry, tracing its origins and traditions. The opening section examines right and left handedness, and ambidexterity, and looks at the contrasting roles of the left and right hands, and the influences they have on our characters. The four basic hand types - Earth, Air, Fire and Water - are then presented together with a character profile of each type. The next section looks at the fingers and thumbs - length, shape, phalanges and fingerprints - and explains how each feature reflects upon your personality. The construction and meaning of the primary lines on the hand, including the life and fate lines, and secondary lines, such as the Mercury line, are studied. The final section details the practical application of hand reading, demonstrating how it can enrich our lives by giving us a deeper insight into our personalities, potential relationships, career possibilities, hobbies and plans for the future.