Sir Harold Ridley and his fight for sight

In this, the centenary year of Sir Harold Ridley's birth, referral for cataract extraction and subsequent intraocular lens (IOL) implantation is commonplace for optometrists and ophthalmologists alike.

Indeed, the last 50 years has seen the implantation of single-piece IOLs evolve from an experimental, contentious, infrequent procedure to one that is routinely performed by ophthalmologists around the world.

It therefore seems fitting that this interesting and informative biographical book be published in this anniversary year. The text pays rightful homage to the man who arguably changed cataract surgery for ever. It somehow seems ironic that, after so many years, a man who was once ridiculed for his ideas and beliefs be honoured in this way. The book, however, is much more than a biography. Throughout, many words and images are devoted to both the history and future of ophthalmology.