Those who are unfamiliar with the work of Eric Serejski should remedy the omission as soon as possible. He is a prolific author, advocate, teacher, translator, speaker, and practitioner of Chinese Medicine with a broad and deep grasp of its philosophical, historical, and scientific foundations. Moreover he is a person of impeccable integrity and uncommon intelligence. His newest work the Chinese Kama Sutra (available at Lulu.com) is actually a compendium of six texts spanning a period from the early Han dynasty to sometime before 618 CE: Harmonizing of Yin Yang, Classic of Sunu, Prescriptions of Sunu, Master of the Mystery Grotto, Secret Instructions of the Jade Bedchamber, and Essential Principles of the Jade Chamber. The authors of these works are unknown. Competent scholarly English language literature on this subject (Chinese sexology) is sparse when compared to that on acupuncture and herbal medicine. I think of Fang-fu Juan’s 1991 book entitled Sex in China: studies in sexology in Chinese culture as one of a few notable exceptions. Perhaps the paucity of material is because between the periods preceding the Han dynasty (221 BCE–206 CE) and the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) only about twenty “sex handbooks” were produced and circulated. Counting the three found in the Mawangdui Tomb #3, only nine are still extant. Of course a number of such manuals were produced later but subsequent histories (of the Sung and Ming dynasties for example) fail to record them. This is a fact which leaves the status of such texts unclear. Were the works missing, felt to be unimportant, or omitted for reasons having to do with mores and manners?


Serejski’s invitation to the potential reinvigoration of interest and research into this area is no small contribution. He has given us sure footed, accessible, and unpretentious translations of six ancient classics of Chinese sexology. These texts are, of course, more than “sex manuals”. Each one has medical and, indeed, spiritual significance, a fact that could be lost on those who only casually glimpse at the cover. Indeed part of Serejski’s inspiration to embark on this research was the discovery of how much of the suffering that troubles his clients is, in some way, connected with sexual dysfunction. For those who have an interest in the practical aspects of this material there are tasteful and helpful illustrations as well as 20 ancient herbal prescriptions covering conditions such as erectile dysfunction, impotence, and seasonal manifestations of the “seven injuries”. It would, of course, be prudent to consult a fully qualified practitioner of Chinese Medicine before ingesting these formulae. The book also includes very helpful annexes, a glossary, and a carefully constructed index to assist both the casual reader and serious student. Clearly a great deal of care and reflection has gone into every aspect of the final product. This indeed will remedy one of the great defects that afflicts many of the contemporary explorations of this subject; a lack of access to primary source material. The book is being translated into French, Spanish, and Portugese. I look forward to further publications by this author and anticipate, with much delight, a bright future for him.


Ashley Wiper, (Wilmington, Delaware)

A remarkable work, clearly written and as easily accessible to the lay person as to the professional, something difficult to achieve with a subject so complex and so vast in its ramifications.
The organization, glossary and references show a solid, clear handle on the subject. The breadth and depth of the author's knowledge are impressive.
The book design is beautiful, and the elegant illustrations are a perfect complement to the writing style: fluid, minimalist sculptures, in excellent taste.
Strongly recommended, either in the English or the French edition.
Anne Ziebur, California