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Archive-name: magic-faq/part1 Last-modified: Jan. 27, 1994 Frequently asked questions in alt.magic/part1 (of 4) Last modified: Jan. 27, 1994 Please send suggested corrections and additions to: mike@vpnet.chi.il.us WHAT'S NEW/MODIFED This section lists what's new or modified in the FAQ this month.... 1) New dealers Ossinsky Novelties (US) 2) Belgian magic clubs (under magical organizations) 3) New bio -- David Smith ====================================================== Topics: Part 1 I. GUIDELINES/ETIQUETTE FOR POSTING II. MAGICIANS WHO SUBSCRIBE TO THIS GROUP III. MAGICAL EVENTS IV. MAGIC ORGANIZATIONS Part 2 V. BOOKS ON MAGIC Part 3 VI. OTHER MAGIC REFERENCES VI-A. MAGAZINES VI-B. VIDEOS Part 4 VII. LIST OF DEALERS ------------------------------------------------------------------------- I. GUIDELINES/ETIQUETTE FOR POSTING alt.magic is a public newsgroup with an estimated readership of 41,000+ ALL postings should be made with this in mind. Q) What is the purpose of this group? A) This group is for the discussion of magic as entertainment, including but not limited to close-up, sleight of hand, platform, stage, and illusion magic. For discussions of pagan, occult, and spiritual magic try alt.magick (note the "k"), alt.paranormal, alt.divination, or alt.pagan. The are also alt.skeptic, alt.hypnosis, and alt.paranormal for other non-magic discussions. Q) Why not alt.conjuring, alt.prestidigitation, or alt.magic.tricks? A) Because escape artists are magicians who don't partake in "conjuring". Illusionists don't partake in prestidigitation (sleight of hand). And many magicians (myself inluded) don't like to refer to magic as tricks or trickery because of the negative connotation that you are out to "get" the audience. The emphasis should be on entertainment, not merely a puzzle, etc. (From: presto@bach.udel.edu (Jason Y Nocks)) Q) What topics should -not- be discussed in this group? A) Since this is a public forum some of us would prefer not to openly discuss the secrets behind the workings of magical effects. The following are some of the reasons given to support this policy: 1) You ruin the illusion for others. 2) Magic as an art only exists when the performance appears impossible. Focusing on "how it is done" reduces the art to a puzzle. 3) Magic as an art exists to entertain. To allow an audience to focus on the performance and not the gimmick is the ENTIRE REASON for the performance. The curiosity you feel when you're fooled by magic is part of the entertainment. When the curiosity is removed, so is some of the entertainment. 4) Although the public thinks it wants to know what we are doing they are disappointed when they find out. 5) Some folks count on the elements of surprise and subtlety in their techniques to feed their kids and pay rent. 6) The secrets are not yours to give. The creators of certain effects have typically written books or produced effects in order to 'stake their claim' and to be compensated for their work. I don't believe there is a 'public-domain' section. Q) What topics should be discussed in this group? A) All the other aspects of magic. For example, 1) Magic as entertainment 1a) Showmanship 1b) Delivery 1c) Presentation 1d) Philosophy 2) The performance of magic 2a) Embarrassing moments and how to handle them 2b) Views on borrowing/imitating 2c) Putting together a show 3) Magic performances 3a) Upcomming 3b) Performances you may have seen 4) Favorite effects 5) Magicians 5a) Favorite magicians 5b) Yourself and your performances 6) Where to learn more 6a) People willing to teach 6b) Books, tapes, magazines, clubs 6c) Magic dealers 7) Magic as a business 7a) Booking 7b) How to advertise 7c) Openings Q) What other sources are available on-line to find out more about magic? A1) Some of the subscribers to this list are willing to further discuss magic via e-mail. See section II of this FAQ. A2) Bruce Barnett maintains a magic mailing list as a place magicians can freely exchange information without the public listening in. You must fill out an application similar to an IBM/SAM membership for in order to be accepted to the list. This list is only for magicians. Send mail to magic-request@maillist.crd.ge.com for more details. If that doesn't work, try the following in order... magic-request@crdras.ge.com barnett@crd.ge.com ( last resort :-) A3) Jeff Isozaki (jti01@duts.ccc.amdahl.com) posts a monthly list of "Magic in Movies" indicating movies, actors, and scenes in which magic appears. Jeff posts this list to alt.magic on or around the first business day of the month. A4) Mofo, Penn & Teller's BBS. If you try to call the old NY number (the one in the Cruel Tricks book) you won't be able to get in. They've moved the bbs to Delphi Systems (a Compuserve/Prodigy/etc type system). To subscribe to Delphi, dial 1-800-695-4002, hit enter twice and type the password, mofo. I'm not sure of the cost. A5) Don Martin (martin@biostat.washington.edu) has begun assembling a list of mystery stories where the detective or a major character is a magician. A6) Russ Sage (rsage@magic.taligent.com) has begun assembling a list of stage hypnosis performers. A7) Nicole Watson, MagicNZ is posting at the beginning of every month a list of upcoming magic conventions worldwide. A8) David Copperfield's Fan Club From whtknght@hakatac.almanac.bc.ca Membership in the David Copperfield international fan club costs $ 20 (in United States currency) per year. With your membership fee you will initially receive 2 large 8 X 12 glossy photos of the man himself, a David Copperfield pin and a biography sheet. You will also receive 4 quarterly issues of the David Copperfield fan club newsletter which will outline the dates and places of his magic show tour around the world and other special information. Write to : David Copperfield International 11777 San Vincente Blvd # 601 Los Angeles, California (USA) 90049 A9) Worldwide MAGIC! BBS Network From: From: gjans@diac.nfe.be (Geert Janssen) MAGIC! is a worldwide Magicians Bulletin Board System (BBS) Network, with nodes in different countries: USA, The Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden and New Zealand. Magic messages, files and info are being exchanged on a regular basis between the connected systems. Log on to one of the following systems: System Country Sysop Phonenumber MAGIC!-US (MAGIC! HQ) USA David Lichtman +1-8188967450 MAGIC!-NL The Netherlands A. Van Rietschoten +31-23388725 MAGIC!-BE Belgium Geert Janssen +32-34806666 (20:00-02:00 CET) MAGIC!-NZ New Zealand Alan Watson +64-94820045 MAGIC!-SE Sweden Olav Holten +46-86044555 We're also looking for other countries to connect! For more information, e-mail to: Geert Janssen: gjans@diac.nfe.be 22:132/1@MAGIC!NET 2:292/832@FIDONET OTHER MAGIC BBS's From: Matt.Gomes@EBay.Sun.COM (Matt Gomes) The Inner Circle (510) 485-9579 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Q) How I get into the Magic Castle to see a show ? A) The Magic Castle is for members only and their guests. Visiting magicians (out of town and members of IBM/SAM may also be admitted) For a guest pass you can do the following: Send a SASE to: Kevin D. Quitt 29243 Marilyn Dr. Santa Clarita, CA 91351-4454 (USA) and I'll be happy to send you a guest card and a copy of my one-page guide to the Magic Castle. The cards are good for six weeks, and no, I won't post-date one. Each guest card is good for up to 8 people, over 21 years old only. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Q) Is there a possibility this news group could be altered in some way so that people wouldn't accidently keep posting things that belong in alt.magicK? A) It is easiest to just ignore these articles. Many newsreaders have a feature called a "kill-file" which will mark articles containing certain patterns as having been read or delete the article. Here are the patterns for some newsreaders. Check with your local documentation of system administrator for more information. News reader: Kill-file pattern: ------------ ----------------- rn /magick/h:j gnus (gnus-kill "xref" "magick") Q) Hasn't it been proven that most of magicK is actually magic? A) Many magicians have become involved in debunking charlatans who claim to have supernatural powers, most notably Houdini and more recently The Amazing Randi. Magicians can duplicate almost any miracle. There is a branch of magic that has blossomed in the last 20 years that uses occult science as a theme. Some of the material is strong enough to start a new religion. Here is one effect that gives you an example.... It is an occult alter. A young novice wearing a robe steps up to the magi. Several occult steps are performed. After building up to a climax, the magi takes a ceremonial dagger and raises it high in the air. He quickly plunges the dagger down, and the novice screams. The robe then falls to the floor, empty. The novice has vanished. If you were at a coven meeting and saw this, you would certainly be affected. Smaller/simpler miracles are much easier - of course. When someone describes a paranormal event, a magician knows how trivial it is to fool someone. Of course he/she is skeptical. (Example from: Bruce Barnett <barnett@crd.ge.com> uunet!crdgw1!barnett) See also alt.skeptic. Q) Whatever happened to ... A) Doug Henning From: Bernie Cosell cosell@world.std.com From promotional material for Maharishi Veda Land, a theme park planned for construction in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The park, which is the creation of magician Doug Henning "under the guidande of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi," is expected to open by 1996. A press release states that the $1.5 billion park, on 1,400 acres, will "combine enlightenment, knowledge, and entertainment." The Maharishi Veda Land Theme Park --- "The Pride of Canada" --- will bring enlightenment to visitors as they experience higher states of consciousness. Each of the park's attractions will expand visitors' appreciation of their own infinite potential. They will experience reality and illusion, immortality and change, unity in diversity, infinity within a point, and the universe within the self. There will be thirty-three original rides and shows, including: * Magic Flying Chariot Ride --- Take a ride deep inside the molecular structure of a rose. * Corridor of Time --- Fly down through history from the beginning of of creation to the end of the universe. * Courtyard of Illusion --- See the world's only levitating building, which floats fifteen feet above water, and discover that there is more to reality than your sense can perceive. * Veda Vision --- Experience a spectacular vision of the totality of life as images appear in midair. * Seven Steps to Enlightenment --- Feel enlightened as you visit seven wondrous pavilions radiating out like the spokes of a wheel. Your path has been carefully designed to lead you, in an entertaining way, step-by-step to enlightenment. ---From the August issue of Harper's In the recent Canadian federal elections (October 1993) Doug Henning ran for parliament as a member of the "Natural Law Party". Doug Henning, is Senior Vice-President of the Natural Law Party and ran in Rosedale, Ontario. [From Natural Law Party literature.] "Dr. Doug Henning, 46, was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Before high school he moved to Oakville, Ontario. Later, he studied at McMaster University in nearby Hamilton [Ontario], where he graduated with an Honours B.Sc. in physiological psychology. Dr. Henning received his doctoral degree in the Science of Creative Intelligence from Maharishi European Research University, Switzerland. In his 20 years of performing, Dr. Henning has created and starred in eight prime-time NBC/CBC television specials that have been seen world wide. ..." Henning did not win the seat in the October 1993 election. Q) Can experienced magicians give some tips on how to read a magic catalog? How can we spot tricks that are over advertised? A) It's amazing what people will say for money. The trouble is that you'll find a lot of misleading but correct ads in a strict legal way. Look for reviews of the items before you buy. Go and watch a demo, and then, if the demo looked wonderful, you need to have someone tell you whether this can be done by someone at your skill level. Suggested questions: Do you really need this item? Is it useful in more than one way? Or is it limited to the effect described? Will it gain in value over the years? Is it a limited edition? Will it help you in your act? Do you plan to USE it? Q) Do you believe that it is detrimental to the art of magic to post "insider" information pertaining to the methods used to achieve a magical effect? A) POLLING RESULTS: compiled by Hans Masing.(HCM100@PSUVM.psu.edu) There were 48 responses within the allotted polling time. 35 were magicians, 13 were laypersons. The average age of magicians in the poll is 32.2 (mean of 26). The typical layperson is 31.7 (mean of 27). For magicians, the average experience is 12.9 years, however there were a few outliers with more than 30 years that skewed the results. Eliminating these outliers, the average experience drops to 2 years. ***** Of the 35 magicians who responded, 46% of you say that methods should not be revealed, 43% say that they should, and 11% are undecided. Not surprisingly, of the 13 laypeople who responded, 33% said that it is detrimental, 54% said it is not detrimental, with 13% undecided. ***** Remarks AGAINST revealing secrets: **Layperson, age 44: "It is one thing to be the artist or the craftsperson discussing the skills needed, it is another to be the layperson intent on taking the illusion away. ANYONE can access this newsgroup. So even though I would enjoy reading the secrets of the craft and might even attempt to execute one, I know that there are other resources for that. This newsgroup is like a cafe - public and private at the same time. I wouldn't expect a real magician to be demonstrating the "how it's done" in a cafe." ***** Remarks FOR revealing secrets: **"Easy" magician, age 20, "12 or so" years experience: "Information is not just for people who can afford it. The main reason I haven't been able to go from half-magician to magician is because I cannot afford to. This would be a great forum to help young (and broke) half-magicians" **Close-up magician, age 29, 2 years experience: "An adult, through common sense realizes that a coin cannot be pulled from a persons ear without being palmed. They know it's being palmed. As a result, the art is to present the illusion in such a way that they don't see the palming." ------------------------------------------------------------------------- II. MAGICIANS WHO SUBSCRIBE TO THIS GROUP Q) WHO ARE YOU PEOPLE, ANYWAYS? What magicians subscribe to this group, what is their status, i.e. illusionist, pocket-magic, and what is their level of expertise i.e. professional, beginner. A) Interestingly enough, there is a very wide readership on ALT.MAGIC. The majority are from North America, but there are many of you from Europe and Australia, and even a few readers from the Orient. Below are biographies of some of the readers. If you would like to be included here please drop a note to mike@vpnet.chi.il.us along with a brief biography . Unlike other material in the FAQ, this is not lifted from the postings, but rather, based on e-mail submissions because I consider this of a personal nature. Please contribute. ****** From: physics@computek.net (David Smith) Magically, I currently do Church gigs, birthday parties and volunteer at a couple of children's hospitals here in Dallas. I am working toward corporate parties, etc.. I am a professional computer programmer for a large bank in Dallas, and do AntiVirus consulting work on the side. I am an authorized distributor of TBAV (Thunderbyte) antivirus, and I have a second degree black belt in the martial arts. If anyone does have a virus problem, please contact me via E-MAIL and I will attempt to help out (for free). ****** From: MagiBob@aol.com My name is Bob Zoerman. I'm a gospel magician currently averaging 3 or 4 performances per week. While I've been interested in magic since the fourth grade, roughly 35 years, I've been performing gospel magic for about 20 years, 2 1/2 years in northern Ohio and western Pennsylvania. I have been an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Magicians since 1979. For about 2 years now I have been writing the MAGIC FOR THE GOSPEL MAGICIAN column appearing monthly in The New TOPS Magic Magazine, published monthly by Abbott's Magic Manufacturing Company, Colon, Michigan. With a master's degree from Johns Hopkins Univ in management (working on a PhD in mgmt), I am employed full-time as the administrator for a small chain of Christian, out-patient mental health clinics. I am willing, as time permits, to respond personally to any and all requests re gospel magic via e-mail. ****** From: Pepe Monfort <pepe@capx.co.gva.es> Hello. I am a magician from Spain. My name is Pepe Monfort and I'm 32 years old. I'm doing magic since I was a kid. I am a member of the SEI (Spanish Illusionism Association) and of the CIVAC (our local Association). I'm interesting in magic in general and particulary close-up and mentalism. ****** From: 9635minerl@vms.csd.mu.edu (Lynn Miner) Lynn Miner: part-time pro for 30+ years. Day job is research dean at Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI. Magic paid for college degrees and lots of fun. Most shows are platform for kids and families although close-up a strong second. Pet magic peeve: grammatical errors in performing instructions or articles. Magic highs: audience laughter. Member IBM & SAM. ******* From: tommy.aarna.swe3650@oasis.icl.co.uk My name is Tommy Aarna and I am a semipro magi from Sweden. I am 32 years old and I work with computor development within a company calld ICL. I have been in this magic word for 17 year and I am now the president of our local magic ring MIC (Moderna Illusionisters Cirkel) based in Norrk|ping, Sweden. I do stand-up / stage magic and usually 50-70 performances/year. For the moment I have a lot of new stuff to think about because this weekend we have the Nordic champion ship of magic here in Link|ping. We had Juan Tamariz, Chris Power and J. Johnsson here and they where great! I have a lot to catch up but I never give up! ****** From: jpoulter@island.amtsgi.bc.ca (Jack Poulter) Jack Poulter: semi-retired after 37 years service with the Canadian Armed Forces. Into magic since 1976, past president of Ring 183 Victoria, BC Canada. Chairman of Western Regional IBM Convention in 1992. Also S.A.M. member, teacher to young magicians and part-time manager of a trick and joke shop in Victoria. If I can be of help to any magicians or want-to-be's, just ask. ****** From: Paul Nielsen <nielsen@eecs.umich.edu> First a shameless plug about myself: I've been interested in magic since I was 9. I am a performer and collector with previous experience as a demonstrator, teacher, and manager in a magic shop. Working in a magic shop gave me exposure to a broad range of experience with effects I otherwise would not have been able to afford and gave constant practice. I've performed for large audiences (over 5,000 people), on local television, and at fairs. I build and refinish many of my own props including small illusions. Currently, I don't perform as much as I used to, since a PhD in computer science pays better, but I like to remain active and support other's efforts. Paul Nielsen (nielsen@eecs.umich.edu) ***** To contact Penn & Teller: mragaisi@nyx.cs.du.edu (Maggie Ragaisis) will forward any questions or comments you might have directly to Penn. If you would like to send e-mail to Penn and Teller and don't want to go through Maggie , you no longer need to. Just send messages to: mofo@delphi.com Colin Summers, their personal hacker, will make sure the messages get to them. At least now you don't have to subscribe to Delphi to get mail to them. However, the Mofo (P&T fan club BBS) is there, and if you're interested in that, you'll still have to join Delphi. or to join the Pen & Teller fan club : Send $6.00 to: MOFO P.O. Box 1196 New York, NY 10185 This pretty much gets you a "lifetime" of the P&T newsletters. They're generally pretty nutty. Definitely for people who are die-hard Penn and Teller fans. ***** From: Shaene M. Steinauer <dulcinea@cwis.unomaha.edu> I'm a half-magician with most of my experience in close-up magic for small groups of friends or kids. I'd be willing to discuss any type of magic; however, my knowledge is limited. My e-mail address is below. Thanks for listening. --Dulcinea (Shaene M. Steinauer) (dulcinea@cwis.unomaha.edu) ***** Name: Steve Silverman <silverman@kelvin.Jpl.Nasa.Gov> City: Los Angeles Bio: Professional level magician. Regular member, Magic Castle, Hollywood. Enjoy mostly close-up but have performed stand-up comedy magic and silent stage manips. No illusions. Worked clubs, restaurants, private parties in the So. Cal area and performed close-up at the Magic Castle. Living in Los Anegeles area provides me with the fortunate opportunity to hang out at the Magic Castle and to have become acquainted with and share ideas with the likes of Larry Jennings, Martin A. Nash, Bruce Cervon, Darryl, John Carney just to name a few. I even had the pleasure of being yelled at by Dai Vernon (15 years ago) as he watched me learn how to execute a top palm. He predictably urged me to read Erdanse. I strongly urge any magicians visiting the Los Angeles area to arrange to visit the Magic Castle either by calling ahead of time or contacting a member. ***** Name: Stephen "PH" Buxton <mei141@cch.coventry.ac.uk> STATUS: Final year student in Aerospace Systems Engineering. HOW LONG INTERESTED IN MAGIC: I went through a phase of magic when I was eight, but lost it till about a year ago. Have become very serious since then, even to the point when I am now considering becoming a professional table hopper. MAGICAL INTERESTS: I used to only use gimmicks, but I have now decided that it is more "magical" to rely on skill and sleight of hand. I perform mainly close up magic. I don't do much in the way of coins and cards, although I do a couple of card routines, like card warp and tipsy cards, and I have my own version of coins across, using ungimmicked coins. I also do a lot of elastic band tricks, which for those of you who do not do them yet, I would seriously recommend you start. I also perform a chop cup effect, and I am working on incorporating it into a sponge ball routine. HINTS FOR BEGINNERS: Practice. Practice some more. When you are perfect at a trick, practice it again. Show your trick to a friend as a trial run through, to spot where the problems are. Then practice again. ***** From: Jason Y Nocks <presto@chopin.udel.edu> A Senior Electrical Engineering major at the U. of Delaware, Jason has performed two full-scale stage productions in addition to countless shows in a parlor magic surrounding. Specializing in escapes, Jason also loves to read about and discuss the psychology behind the magic. -- | presto@brahms.udel.edu | A senior E.E. at the U of D with a side order | presto@freezer.cns.udel.edu | of stage and close-up magic. The views | nocks@snow-white.ee.udel.edu | expressed are exclusively my own (etc). ***** From: gold@ucscb.UCSC.EDU (William Maloney) I am a student at University of California, Santa Cruz. I started performing card magic three years ago and perform only for friends/ relatives. I have been reading alt.magic for about a month and a half now (Feb 93), and have found the discussions enlightening and entertaining. Bill ***** From: hes@unity.ncsu.edu Henry Schaffer amateur, 15 year IBM member closeup, mostly rope magic have judged stage magic contests at several IBM International Conventions --henry ***** Name: Hans C. Masing (Sleight of Hans) EMail: HCM100@PSUVM.PSU.EDU (For about 95% of the year) Main interest: Sleight of Hand Magic, close-up work. I have been performing magic professionally for about 3.5 years. I had a great teacher, and started working just six months after I learned my first sleight. I feel that my strongest ability isn't in the technical side of magic, it's in the ability to capture an audience and entertain them! I'm a clown by nature, so it's easy for me to pick up and go in front of an audience. Favorite magicians: Penn & Teller, simply for their irreverent attitude. Close second would have to be Dave Williamson, who is probably in a tie with Daryl Martinez. Current interest: I am concentrating hard and long on my ability with coins. Most requested effect: Vacuum Packed by John Bannon. I am CONSTANTLY being asked to perform this coin-in-bottle routine. If you don't know it, check it out. It's in his Smoke and Mirrors book. It's simple, and with a few modifications in the handling, repeatable! :-) Where I want to be in 10 years: Either doing research in Artificial Intelligence or performing magic full time. Either way, I'll be happy. Best piece of advice: Forget the technical side of magic. If you truly want to understand the ART of magic, you need to get into the mind of the audience. Some of my most popular material has been blatantly stolen from childrens magic books you can find in the library. But properly presented, even the lame tricks can dazzle and entertain. The art of magic is the art misdirection, not the art of tricks or sleights. The typical layperson (readers of alt.magic excluded!!) doesn't give a rat's behind about how difficult a certain move is or whether you know 45 different coin acquitments, they want to see something that they haven't seen before and something that they will talk about during the drive home. Concentrate on the basics. (1) Entertainment, (2) consistency of performance levels, and (3) naturalness of your sleights. ***** From: jillm@netcom.com Name: Jill "GIGGLES" Marci Professional Entertainer, I perform under the register servicemark of "Giggles The Magical Clown" Will correspond with people interested in performing for children, on television, at fairs, etc. Anyone wanting a copy of my book (The Art of Clowning), or wanting to hire me for a lecture etc. You can contact me at: P.O. Box 2519, Santa Clara, CA 95055-2519 ***** From: Bruno.Degiovanni@CSELT.STET.IT My name is Bruno Degiovanni (bruno.degiovanni@cselt.stet.IT) and I'm an Italian close-up fanatic. I'm VERY happy to find out a way of exchanging ideas, suggestions or simply book references in order to improve my technique. I'm an electronic engineer with a 15 years experience in close-up magic. I'm member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians (just another IBM!) and my favourite routines are with cards and coins. ***** From: ronnb@ccwf.cc.utexas.edu Status: Very good amateur Style: Close up and platform - manipulation, juggling, comedy Been doing the magic 'thing' for 19 yrs - currently use it to keep a roomful of engineers or 2nd level managers from dozing off during those particularly technical talks... Ronn Brashear ****** From: msibbern@nyx.cs.du.edu (Michael Sibbernsen) Michael Sibbernsen, Age 24 Kearney, NE Email address- (msibbern@nyx.cs.du.edu) I have been into magic since I was about 9, learning mostly by reading library books and watching Omaha area magicians, like Denny Rourke and Peter the Near Great. At 12 I started performing for family and friends and at age 16 started professionally. I have been a member of the SAM for the past 8 years. My particular specialty of magic is Cabaret, although I also do allot of close-up, and have performed some stage. After taking a four year hiatus from stock bookings (I only performed a half dozen times) I went to the University of Nebraska at Kearney to get my B.S. in Physics. For the last year I have worked for the physics department as a lecture demonstrations specialist, and assistant planetarium and observatory director. I have also started up my magic once again and enjoy inventing and building my own apparatus, one for expense reasons, and two, to add an aire of originality. I would be happy to correspond to both professionals and those just starting out, to exchange ideas and advice. My other interests besides Magic include, Astronomy,, Photography, Electronics, Computers, Star Trek, Comics, and Scuba Diving. So many interests, so little money. ***** From: mike@vpnet.chi.il.us Mike Kamlet Member of several different clubs in the Chicago area (IBM/SAM and a few others) Currently secretary IBM ring 43. I've been interested in magic since age 8, but I have recently renewed my interest. I prefer stuff without gimmicky-looking objects and routines built around a charming story... ------------------------------------------------------------------------- III. MAGICAL EVENTS Send your list of ongoing magical events including: brief description, location, cost, and admission requirements to mike@vpnet.chi.il.us Contributors: cragaisi@nyx.cs.du.edu (Chris) jti01@duts.ccc.amdahl.com (Jeff Isozaki) nielsen@eecs.umich.edu (Paul Nielsen) Scott Flanagan <FLANAGA@ricevm1.rice.edu> Upcomming events which merit separate postings. -- Clubs for magic: Comedy and Magic Hermosa Beach, CA Does this place still exist? Do they still perform magic? El Duco's Magic, HB Lergoeksgatan 18 S-215 79 MALMOE Sweden +46-40-214592 +46-40-217228 (fax) Fork's Hotel Buffalo, NY Illusions Keystone, Indiana (Just North of Indianapolis) (317) 575-8312 11/93 -- Last time I spoke with Mike Close he indicated that he isn't really working there any more and that Illusions is cutting back on magic -- call before you go... Mike Kamlet Magic Castle Hollywood, CA This is a members only magic club. Probably the best place to watch magic since they have 3 different magic venues, large stage platform and close-up. The Magic Castle is a membership systemed night club. If you are not a member, you have to have a guest card or go to there with a member. There are some rules on the back of the guest card. 1. Absolutely no one under 21 admitted. Proof of age required. 2. Strict dress code. Coats and ties for men, dresses for ladies. No casual wear. (No jeans.) 3. This card is non-transferable, good for one visit only and must be surrendered at the door. Expired cards not accepted. 4. Guests must have dinner and make reservations well in advance (1 week recommended.) There is an entrance charge of $????? for each guest in addition to the dinner price. For reservations call 851-3313 between 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday thru Saturday. Please notify the Castle if you plan to cancel. 5. This card honored for dinner Sunday night thru Thursday only by advance reservation. Shows follow dinner and are open to all guests. This card not honored on Friday and Saturday. If you go there with a member, you can go on any day of the week and you don't have to have a dinner, you don't have to pay the entrance charge. (213) 851-3313 Magic Island Houston, TX (713) 526-2442 We went with a coupon for about $25 per person. That included dinner, a live stage show with two acts, and two close up shows. Without the coupon, prices vary, depending on what you order. $50 per person is probably a reasonable minimum estimate, but they may have gone up. The food was good, and the entertainment ranged from fair to excellent. Mississippi Live Minneapolis Night Club They have magicians Wed-Sat nights. Reuben's For some magic talk at 38th and Madison in Manhattan. Check it out on Saturday afternoon. Straight out of Woody Allen's "Broadway Danny Rose"! Tower ?? This is the place in Colorado owned by singer John Denver. Doc Eason tends bar and performs magic. Tom Foolery Tom Mullica's place. This is closed now. Thurston's Buffalo, NY -- Theatre: Altered Reality National Improvisational Theater New York, NY Le Grande David and His Own Spectacular Magic Company Cabot St. Theater Beverly, MA (508) 927-3677 -- In Atlantic City: Trop World Bunny Collins, Brooks Comer, Bully Damion, Dale Vargus Trump Castle R.J. Lewis, Carl Ash Marn Ann Calkins, Arian Black -- In the Bahamas: Carnival's Crystal Palace Dick Arthur Nassau -- In Las Vegas: The Las Vegas magicians' round table is held on Wednesday nights. You never know who will show up in the land of magic. All magi are welcome. Just give a call to any of the shops when you're there and they'll fill you in. There are alot of magic shows in Las Vegas. Some of the shows are: "Alakazam" - ????? "City Lites" with Joseph - Flamingo Hilton "Elaine's Restaurant" with Mike Skinner - Golden Nugget "Jubilee" with Bob Arno and Hans Panter - Ballys "Roman Festival" with Jordan Hahn and David Kesterson - Caesars "Spellbound" with Joaquin Ayala & Lilia, Tim Kole & Jenny Lynn, Mark "Splash" with Shimada - Riviera Kevin Barnes, Teresa Liu, and Joe White - Excalibur Lance Burton - Hacienda Melinda - Lady Luck Siegfried and Roy - Mirage Vince Carmen and Phyllis Guggenheim - Circus Circus Plus many others Lance Burton's show at the Hacienda: Burton's show was a treat. It was reasonably priced (about $23.00 including tax) and well thought out. The music was appropriate. Lance is personable, and can be funny. I think he spent too much time trying to establish himself as a "serious conjurer." His smile is contagious, and he's pretty quick on his feet with one liner responses to audience comments. There's not a bad seat in the house, either. The room is _small_. The only thing that I din't like about the show was the time he spent plugging the items he would have for sale in the lobby after the show. I found that sleezy. He did a number of transpositions, levitations (including a dream sequence that could approach hardcore R bordering on X rating - but more on that later), and a great bit with an audiance member on stage. Lance was the arms and the volunteer was the body. The productions were a lot of fun that way! I was going to mention the show rating bit. I found this out after I went, but it seems that if you catch the 8:00 show it's the family version. The 11:00 show has nudity. (Too bad I din't find out earlier!) The girls _weren't_ the solid gold dancers (they _did_ have a dance number) but quite easy on the eyes, and they added to the routines rather than being just something sexy to look at. -- From: silverman@kelvin.Jpl.Nasa.Gov (Steve Silverman) Michael Skinner at the Golden Nugget. He is the resident magician and strolls between Lily Langtree's and Stefanos restaurant. Michael has been reffered to as one of the worlds finest close-up performers by some very notable people. I was fortunate enough to have dinner with him during my last visit and must say that he is also a very nice person and real gentleman. ---- From: Andy Latto <andyl@harlequin.com> A very entertaining show, and an amazingly good value for the money (only about $10). Some of the effects were old chestnuts, like chopping off an audence member's head with a guillotine, but there were some very nice illusions, and some good slight of hand with birds. In addition to the magic, there are two very good specialty acts: Anthony Gatto, one of the two or three best jugglers in the world, and a group that plays basketball and jumps rope on unicycles. In Reno: "Spellbound" starring The Pendragons ----------- In Beverly MA - From: jpoulter@island.amtsgi.bc.ca (Jack Poulter) Le Grande David etc... This company of performers also presents shows several times a month at the Larcom Theatre also in Beverly MA. A visual banquet at most reasonable rates. Highly recommended. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- IV. MAGIC ORGANIZATIONS The following organizations exist to promote magic and further its development. Each produces a magazine and sponsors local club meetings. International Brotherhood of Magicians P.O. Box 192090 St. Louis, MO 63119 (314) 351-7677 (314) 353-4771 (fax) Society of American Magicians Richard Blowers, National Administrator P.O. Box 510260 St. Lousis MO 63151 (314) 846-5659 The following is a list of magic clubs in Belgian From: Geert.Janssen@f832.n292.z2.fidonet.org (Geert Janssen) Here's a list of the belgian magic clubs! INNER MAGIC CIRCLE President MERTENS Jean Paul Deerlijksestraat 15 A 8500 KORTRIJK Tel: 056/229439 Fax: 056/229713 KLEINE JOKER President THIJS Louis Bieststraat 46 3360 LOVENJOEL Tel: 016/462237 Secretary NIJS Bart Broekhout 13 3012 WILSELE Tel: 016/447057 MAGISCHE CIRKEL GENT President DE GEETER Kristof Steenweg 296 A 9810 EKE-NAZARETH Tel: 09/3856434 Secretary BRAEM Marc Ottergemsesteenweg 125 9000 GENT Tel: 09/2222815 VLAAMSE GOOCHELAARS VAN BELGIE President JANSSEN Marc Arbeidsstraat 11 2500 LIER Tel: 03/480.61.96 Secretary JANSSENS Magdalena Heiligstraat 99 2620 HEMIKSEM Tel: 03/887.74.11 IBM RING President ISBECQUE Claude 20, Square F. Riga 1030 BRUSSEL CENACLE MAGIQUE President BERGERON Docteur 12, Rue Paul Bossu 1150 BRUSSEL CLUB (IN CHARLEROI) President FALQUE Robert 219, Rue Des Haies 6001 MARCINELLE FRAMAGIE President SCHRAEPEN Vliegveldstraat 51 3500 HASSELT POETJE PAH President VAN GOOL Fernand Vinkenstraat 1 2250 OLEN IBM RING 298 President JANSSEN Marc Arbeidsstraat 11 2500 LIER Tel: 03/4806196 I.V.M.V.G. President BRENGMAN Gerrit Grensstraat 1 1860 MEISE LES 52 DE LIEGE President PLERS Rudy 120, Rue Paul Du Fort 4100 SERAING LUCKY RING President SPALTY Bodo Salesianenlaan 55 2660 HOBOKEN MAGIC CLUB BELGE President THIRIART F. 194, Boulevard D'Avroy 4000 LIEGE MAGIC VICTORIA President JACOBS Jan Schimpenstraat 5 3500 HASSELT MAGISCHE CIRKEL KORTRIJK President LINK Rob 'T Rode Paard 16 8510 BELLEGEM OPEN MAGIC CIRCLE President VERHEYEN Marc VRIENDENKRING VAN GOOCHELAARS President STAES Willy Wijngaardstraat 94 9000 GENT \\ // \\// ___________________________ /00\ (____(________________(____() \></ __/__\__ <________> ________ | | / \ | | | A | \____/ | S /\ | | / \ | | ( ) | | )__( | | | \________/ -- Mike Kamlet mike@vpnet.chi.il.us Archive-name: magic-faq/part2 Last-modified: Jan. 9, 1994 Frequently asked questions in alt.magic/part2 (of 4) Last modified Jan. 9, 1994 Topics: Part 2 V. BIBLIOGRAPHY OF BOOKS ON MAGIC This list is provided as a service to alt.magic from Robin Dawes. All additions/corrections may be sent either to me (Mike Kamlet) or to Robin. Bibliography of Books on Magic Last Update: June 27, 1994 Originally compiled by Scott Duncan <duncan@ctt.bellcore.com> Reorganized and expanded by Robin Dawes <dawes@qucis.queensu.ca> Please mail additions and corrections to Robin Dawes Contributors: [BB] barnett@grymoire.crd.ge.com (Bruce Barnett) [BD] Bruno.Degiovanni@CSELT.STET.IT (Bruno Degiovanni) [CR] cragaisi@nyx.cs.du.edu (Chris Ragaisi (?)) [DH] davehunt@microsoft.com (Dave Hunt) [DL] donl@worldbridge.com (Donald P. Leaman) [DM] dhm@ug.cs.dal.ca (David H. MacFarlane) [DP] peters@drea.dnd.ca (Doug Peters) [E?] 2j8gap$8j1@senator-bedfellow.MIT.EDU (Eric ?) [FD] fdeignan@vax.clarku.edu (?) [GH] NHJV85A@prodigy.com (Gary E. Hunt) [HS] hes@unity.ncsu.edu (Henry E. Schaffer) [HM] HCM100@psuvm.psu.edu (Sleight of Hans) [JB] exujbl@exu.ericsson.se (Jerry Blackerby,CS/D,x77810) [JC] cox@stolaf.edu (J Randolph Cox) [JG] au961@yfn.ysu.edu (Jeremy Greystoke) [JM] jillm@netcom.com (Jill Marci) [MK] mike@vpnet.chi.il.us (Mike Kamlet) [PN] nielsen@eecs.umich.edu (Paul Nielsen) [RD] dawes@qucis.queensu.ca (Robin Dawes) [SD] duncan@ctt.bellcore.com (Scott Duncan) [SFD] ai627@yfn.ysu.edu (Stan F. Davis) [TN] tnielson@spock.NMSU.Edu (Thorin Nielson) Sections: 1. General 2. Performance/Philosophy 3. For the Beginner 4. Card Magic 5. Coin Magic 6. Card & Coin Combinations 7. Mentalism 8. Other Magic 9. History/Reference 10. Business Issues in Magic 11. Performing for Children 1. General Ammar, Michael The Magic of Michael Ammar (1991, L&L Publ.) [SD] Very nicely executed book of effects and magic "philosophy." Starting with an entire stand-up Cups and Balls routine, the book includes "utilities," "restaurant" effects, other "stand-up" effects, "magic management," as well as various chapters of philosophy and advice. In a chapter on "classic renditions," you'll find the "Crazy Man's Handcuffs" (i.e., rubber bands that seem to melt through one another) which seems to be a favorite of many folks. [RD] I use the "C. M. Handcuffs" all the time. There is a heavy overlap between this book and Mr. Ammar's previous publications (such as "Command Performance") but if you don't have all of those, this is a recommended purchase. Bannon, John Impossibilia (1990, L&L Publ.) [SD] A variety of nice stuff with cards, coins, cups. Easy to challenging. Bennett, Horace On Your Feet (1978, Mentzer) [RD] Mr. Bennett was considered one of the best of his day. In this small book he details his handlings for 8 routines that can be done while standing (though some require a table). Included are sponge balls, a matrix type effect, ring on wand, etc. Bertram, Ross Magic and Methods (?,?) [DP] - for someone out there this is a good book, but not for me. - some excellent coin effects, chapter on sleeving. - terrific stories about Dai Vernon, etc. - good egg-bag routine Carney, John Carney Knowledge (1983, Carney) [RD] Mr. Carney has a more recent, much larger book out titled "Carneycopia" that probably subsumes this booklet. Here he presents ten or so effects with cards, coins, crystals, toy mice, etc., and intersperses them with brief musings on the design and presentation of magic. Mr. Carney is a student of Dai Vernon, and it appears he has learned well. The theoretical essays made the booklet worthwhile for me. Close, Michael Workers 1 (?,?) [MK] Close's first book contains his origami bunny, Dr. Strangetrick (his version of card warp with a bill), and the pothole trick. Some feel the pothole effect is worth the price of the book. Mike gives you detailed instructions and all of his patter... Close, Michael Workers 2 (?,?) [MK] This time Mike gives you his 'rubik bill', The el Cheapo magic set a ring and string effect, and the frog prince (it's much more than a card trick). There are other effects included as well as his handling for a spread force. Close, Michael Workers 3 (?,?) [MK] Close's latest book includes essays on patter, presentation, motivation audience management....He gives his techniques for palming and methods for learning how to palm -- not just hold the card this way. There's another origami trick and some card effects. It's good reading. de la Torre, Jose Magicana of Havana (1975, de la Torre) [SD] Interesting routines based on some familiar themes, including effects using jumbo (oversized) cards. Elliott, Bruce Magic as a Hobby (1951, Faber & Faber) [RD] A great book for beginning to intermediate students of the art. Much of the material comes from the Phoenix magazine, but is still current. Has chapters on cards, coins, miscellaneous, mentalism, etc., and a fine essay on developing magical presentation. Also includes (with permission) the complete money act that Mike Bornstein used to perform on stage. Elliott, Bruce Classic Secrets of Magic (1953, Faber & Faber) [RD] Devotes a chapter each to such perennials as the Ambitious Card, Multiplying Billiard Balls, Cups and Balls, Two Covers and Four Objects (Elliott seems to have been ahead of his time in eschewing the politically incorrect name usually given to this trick), 4 Aces, and so on. All extremely practical material that will require some practice. Fox, Karrell AbraKfox (?, ?) [MK] This is a small book by Fox that includes some tricks and some stories. Karrell wrote it as a tribute to Duke Stern. His rope tie, and the Guatelma rope trick are included. Gardner, Martin Encyclopedia of Impromptu Magic (1978, Magic, Inc.) [PN] Tricks with no special apparatus, gimmicks, or involved preparation. Lots of wonderful stuff. This is being sold by Klutz Press since Martin Gardner was one of the consultants on the Klutz Book of Magic. Gardner, Martin Martin Gardner Presents (1993, Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] A large collection of previously published material from when Gardner was a boy through adulthood, covering the years from the 30's through the 90's. Cards occupy a large part of the material as do effects based on counting and math "tricks." However, there is material here with coins, ice, sponge balls, thimbles, handkerchiefs, as well as mentalism (though mostly related to math/counting). [DP] Martin has published several books on mathematical magic, impromptu magic, and the "Uriah Fuller" parodies of Uri Geller. Some of his pamphlets have a lot of gags and funny bits which are still being used. His earlier stuff collects a lot of material from all over the place, and he notes creators and originators often. His his knowledge is encyclopedic, but it may not include "heavy" work. I don't remember him writing about cards that much. Harkey, David Simply Harkey (1991(?), Clandestine Productions) [SD] The work of David Harkey has stuff in it that looks "impossible" but which, when you see him lecture, is very impressive. Then, you find out it isn't as hard as it looks. On the other hand, the explanations of some of these (like his "crystal transformation" effect) sound more complex than they turn out to be in practice. (Not because the explanations are poor, but because there is a lot going on sometimes. It is not easy stuff to do because of that rather than because the individual things done are particularly hard.) I like this book mostly for the card and coin stuff, though his "Goldfinger Trilogy" (with a finger ring) and "Sweet Talk" (with a coin and sugar packet) are neat as well. Herz, Bill and Paul Harris Secrets of the Astonishing Executive (?, ?) [MK] I know it's written for the general lay audience, but there are some interesting things in it. (Although you probably know most of what in there) It uses simple principles to use in the office or at business lunches. It includes some mental stuff based on Max Maven effects, the Mac King creamer bit.. Kaufman, Richard 5 X 5 (19??,Kaufman & Greenberg) [Rashid] Five Japanese magicians each of whom disclose five of their pet close-up effects. These range from impromptu coin and card tricks to tricks employing some very ingenious and easily constructed gimmicks. The material is really fresh and innovative. It's been a long time since I came across a book on close-up that contained material I could get excited over - creative effects that can really make an audience sit up and take notice. My favorite effects are: - An ambitious card routine where you put a paper clip on the card, bury it, and with a shake of the hand the paper clipped card is back on top. - A beautifully startling effect where an empty, flattened out card case is folded into its original box shape and then with no false moves, the box is opened and a deck of cards is dumped out. - A card warp type of effect where a dollar bill that has been folded lengthwise into 1/4 its original width is pushed through another dollar bill (a la card warp). When it emerges on the other side it has started to unfold itself. Each time it is pushed through it has magically unfolded a little more till it unfolds completely and is then immediately handed out for examination. Kaufman, Richard Amazing Miracles of Shigeo Takagi (19??,Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] Nice mixture of stuff -- including silk, rope, and ring effects plus the usual card magic -- from one of Japan's foremost magicians. Kaufman, Richard Collected Almanac (?, Kaufman & Greenberg) [DP] Includes such favourites as Sankey's Airtight & Forgery, Dingle's handling of the Jennings' classic Visitor, the Stencel Aces, Hamman's Signed Card & Twins, etc. Kaufman, Richard Richard's Almanac Volume 1 (19??, Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] A book covering Kaufman's magazine for 1982-83 with effects from many folks on many topics. [DP] a good book - a wealth of close-up material. Kaufman, Richard Sawa's Library Volume 1 (?, Kaufman & Greenburg) [DP] - the coin effects are beyond me (back-pinch four quarters? right!) - the sponge-ball stuff looks really good - the rope magic is excellent - the gaffed cards are intact Kaufman, Richard Showtime at the TomFoolery (?, Kaufman & Greenburg) [MK] This book describes Tom Mullica's act that he did at the Tom Foolery. Each effect (except the cigarette and napkins) is explained in incredible detail. The style of the book is a bit unusual since it describes Mullica's action during each minute of the show. (They have a time order..) There are stories in it too, and it is fun reading. Kronzek Book of Magic for Young Magicians - The Secrets of ALKAZAR (?,?) [SFD] A real surprise! good sections on misdirection, on how to make a card trick interesting (including '15 ways to have a card chosen'), on how to present and routine a trick. Not just for children..... Kurtz, Gary Unexplainable Acts (?,?) [CR] This is a GREAT book. Unfortunately, it's very Kurtz, the material is fairly difficult. The sleights are explained well, but NOTHING in this book will be performed immediately. You're going to have to work at it. There is a mixture of close up and platform stuff in there, with some pretty weird ideas. I recommend that you scope a copy of this book BEFORE you buy it. My two favorite routines in the book are ones where you drop a apple into a rolled up sheet of construction paper. You immediately roll out an orange. The paper is then unrolled and shown. The other is a bill vanish, cigar production (still wrapped in cellophane), hand the cigar to a spectator. She opens the cellophane, breaks the cigar in half and discovers a bill _inside_ the cigar. This is shown to be the missing bill. Marlo, Edward M. I. N. T. (198?, L&L Publ.) [SD] Ed Marlo's magic collected from material presented in now out- of-print magazine sources. [RD] The title is an acronym for Marlo In New Tops, I think. Marlo, Edward Marlo's Magazine Volume 1 (1976, Ed Marlo) [SD] Really a large book of many effects. However, as he says in the Foreword, he wanted to "say something" besides talk about routines and effects. So he makes "editorial points" throughout the book. I like to read about how magicians think (and what they think about) when it comes to magic. There's lots of card magic here as well as the thoughts. Minch, Stephen Korem Without Limits (19??, A.D. Robbins Publ.) [SD] Reasonably good collection of intermediate magic -- not everything caught my attention -- with reasonably good photographs illustrating things. Minch, Stephen Ken Krenzel's Close-Up Impact (1990, Hermetic Press) [SD] Krenzel is a "thinking person's" magician with a reputation for exploring the psychology of effects. The fact that he's a psychologist -- it's Dr. Krenzel -- explains that partially. Not all this stuff has the impact that the title claims -- at least, I've seen him lecture and wasn't overwhelmed. Ouellet, Gary The Masters of Magic Series (various dates, Camirand Academy of Magic) [SD] Ouellet covers many routines with cards, shells and pea, coin penetrations, cups and balls, etc. One routine per monograph. [RD] These are generally well-written and produced. These are the ones I've read: The Coin Connection - excellent routine from Eric DeCamps Supershells - a 3-shell routine Threshold - an attractive method for the torn-and-restored card, using lapping. Finger on the Card - a presentation of the Dunbury Delusion - not bad Page, Patrick and Goshman, Albert Magic by Gosh (?, Goshman) [SD] Basically, Goshman's act, all of it, plus other items. [RD] Goshman's work with sponges was incredibly good, and his "coins under the salt shaker" routine was great. I assume these are in this book. Pierce, Lance Roger Klause in Concert (?, L&L Publishing) [DP] Includes the most recent treatment of the famous $100 bill switch. Good motivation for everything, suggested patter and attention to detail. Most things require special props, from TT to gaffed coins. Intermediate difficulty. Well designed & produced, a number of proofing errors (right hand for left hand, etc) and dark photo reproductions, however. Lots of filler, including letters of praise for RK from a who's who of modern magic. Slaight, Allan Stewart James in Print: The First Fifty Years (1989, Jogjestja) [SD] Probably the thickest book in magic. At least the thickest one I've seen at over 990 pages! You have to dig stuff out, but there's a variety of things here from the easy to the more challenging. [RD] Mr. James invented the ever-popular Miraskil. Volume 2 of this incredible inventor's work is still pending (1994). Tannen's Magic Stars of Magic (19??, Tannen) [SD] A series of 11 monographs (plus two "lessons") which appeared individually in the past but are collected into book form. Usually multiple effects per monograph. [RD] Much of the magic seems dated, but John Scarne's "Triple Coincidence" and Dai Vernon's "Ambitious Card" and "Royal Monte" are excellent. [BD] It is noticeable also for the famous SPELLBOUND coin move (D. Vernon). In every coin book you'll find a reference to that. Tannen's Magic New Stars of Magic (various dates, Tannen) [SD] A monograph series from the 1970's and early 1980's on subjects such as MacDonald's Four Ace Trick (Garcia), the Card Tunnel (Krenzel), the Ultimate Invisible Assembly (Kaufman), a 3-Ring Routine (Capehart), Immaculate Connection (Harris), Bewildering (Bennett), etc. Some nice routines (one per monograph) with certain equipment included (gimmick cards, etc.) for some routines. [RD] Immaculate Connection is great. For a better handling of MacDonald's Aces, try John Mendoza's "The Book of John: Verse Two". Tarbell, Harlan Tarbell Course in Magic (8 vols, 1972, 1993, D. Robbins & Co.) [SD] Originally distributed in the late 1920's as a mail-order course in magic with 60 separate lessons and now a multi-volume set covering nearly every aspect of magic. Not the first thing to buy, for sure, but something everyone may want to get eventually. (Of course, at $120+ a set, that may take a while.) [RD] Harry Lorayne actually wrote Volume 7. [FD] For those of you who have posted that you would like to get into magic but don't have the money for tricks, books are your best bet. Probably the grand-daddy of all series is the Tarbell Course in Magic. It is hard cover and comes in seven volumes. I bought the complete set at a magic convention for $115. If bought separately, I believe that the first volume is $15 and the succeeding ones are $18 each. The complete course is a wealth of magical information! For a little over $100 anyone can get into magic and be able to perform some amazing feats. Every so often I'll see a fellow magician perform some magical miracle I've never seen and he'll then tell me that he got it out of Tarbell. Weber, Michael Lifesavers (?, Kaufman) [MK] Weber gives lots of ideas on what he calls improvised magic. Making do with what you got. (He does carry around a lot of strange things -- but with 10 min. in a bathroom he can build miracles -- maybe that didn't sound right :-) Weber has some interesting ideas on handling of 'standard' ideas. I liked how he combined the Chris Kenner and Dan Harlan linking rubber band routines. [JG] "LIFE SAVERS" is an excellent book. It's currently $35, and I think it's worth the money if you do any performing for real people (not other magicians...the stuff is too good to waste on them!). Several items do require a few moments of advance preparation, so it's a misnomer to call the book a collection of impromptu magic. ..though each item will look spur-of-the-moment when performed. The book is well written and illustrated with many photographs. Mike Weber is well known in magical circles for his creativity and this book is an excellent introduction to his thinking. I highly recommend this book. Wilson, Mark Mark Wilson's Complete Course in Magic ( 1991(?), Courage Books) [SD] A large book offering a beginner's course in magic. Good for lots of fundamental stuff, but with a few things that may interest slightly experienced magicians. Think of it as an abbreviated Tarbell in some respects. [FD] Another fine book. The 472 page hard cover book sells for about $20-$25 and also is a wealth of magical information. For this small investment you too can get into the field of magic. The original book should be a staple in every magician's library. There is more magic in that one book than you might suspect. Beginners stuff, yes. But also some great effects and sleights. 2. Performance/Philosophy Burger, Eugene Experience of Magic (1989, Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] Well-known for his thoughtfulness about performing, Burger does offer routines and magic effects, but goes to great lengths to talk about the feeling and spirit with which they should be presented. Along with people like Fitzkee and Tamariz, Burger should be of interest to people who want to read the opinions of someone on how to present magic. [RD] Highest recommendation. Mr. Burger asks "What do we want people to experience when we show them a magic trick?" Is "I've been fooled" the same as "I feel stupid"? Must we always go for laughs, or can we evoke other emotions and still achieve entertainment? READ THIS BOOK. Burger, Eugene The Performance of Close-up Magic (1990(?), Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] I liked the latter half of the book starting with Chapter 10 on Magic Lectures. I'm sure folks might like the rest, but I liked his narratives and opinions best in this book. Burger, Eugene Craft of Magic (1984, Willmarth) [RD] I like all of Mr. Burger's books. He writes about how to be a magician, not just how to do tricks. He talks a lot in this book about the value of proper practice and rehearsal. Sound obvious? Ok, explain the difference between practice and rehearsal. Burger, Eugene Secrets and Mysteries of the Close-up Entertainer (1982, Willmarth) [RD] Another good one. The secrets and mysteries are not "where to put your left index finger while doing the diagonal palm shift", but "where to put your brain". Carey, Chris Find the Stuff That's You (1989, Show-Pro Team) [RD] I read this once and said "It's content-free". I read it again and said "I think he's saying something, but I don't know what". I read it again and said "Oh! Oh! Oh!" I guess I'm just slow. Seriously, it rewards re-reading, if you have the patience. Fitzkee, Dariel Trick Brain, The (19??, Lee Jacobs Productions) [SD] One of a set of three books on "conjuring psychology" and how to "think" magic. Most of what I liked was his division of effects into categories and then definition of ways to perform such effects (not in detail but generally the kind of look-and-feel the audience would get). Though several kinds of effects might be called, for example, "levitations," they may appear differently to audiences based on what technique is used. An almost academic book classifying magic effects. Galloway, Andrew Diverting Card Magic (1980, Galloway) [RD] Actually a discussion of the techniques of attention control (as in misdirection etc) as practiced by the great John Ramsay. Mr. Galloway makes his points and illustrates with workable tricks that require some skill (you don't need misdirection if you're not doing anything), but his point is not how to do the sleights invisibly, but how to prevent the spectator from ever becoming suspicious. Kurtz, Gary Misdirection and Direction (1990, Kurtz) [SD] Subtitled "Keys to the Amplification of the Magic Effect," this is an unusual little booklet on presentation and audience "control." [RD] Worth reading, especially for the thoughts on timing and "creating the moment" at which the audience's attention is off your hands. Nelms, Henning Magic and Showmanship (1969, Dover) [SD] Mainly advice about many aspects of performing magic which uses effects to illustrate performance points rather than to teach the effects. [RD] Makes a nice companion to Mr. Burger's "Experience of Magic". Nelms argues in favour of consistency - for example, at any given venue, you should not pretend to be both a psychic and a magician, since this breaks the over-all illusion. [SFD] Remarkable! The magic isn't too impressive, but the stuff about presentation, choosing a character to play on stage, the role of the audience, roles of volunteers, ... I found indispensable. If you like Mike Close and Eugene Burger on performing philosophy, look this guy up..... Roper, Steve Comedy Magic Textbook (1986, Snowflake) [RD] Some people take extreme exception to Mr. Roper's claim that comedy magic is "easier" than other kinds. However, here's a little experiment you might try: attend an improvisational theatre session, and observe how many of the scenes are comedic rather than dramatic. I think that what Mr. Roper is saying is that everyone has some innate ability to be humourous (especially with self-directed humour), while not everyone has the intuitive ability to act out a serious role. In this book, Mr. Roper does a fair job of explaining how he creates some of his comedy magic (which reads as though it would indeed be very funny). Tamariz, Juan Five Points in Magic, The (19??, Frakson) [SD] Using your body in presenting magic: the eyes, the voice, the hands, the body, and the feet. Basically discusses how to present yourself physically to be more effective. In particular, it focuses on misdirection (and direction) of the audience using your body. [PH] Mike Close wrote if you do not own and read everything published by Juan Tamariz, shame on you! "The Five Points in Magic" is very good though very pricey. It is mostly a discourse on misdirection and controlling the perceptions of your audience... ***** Help! Who is PH? --- Robin ***** [FD] I was standing in line waiting to pay the $35+ for "THE FIVE POINTS OF MAGIC" after the lecture. The man is a genius when it comes to magic and misdirection. The book is theory, not tricks. But I almost think that it should be bought AFTER you see him perform. You won't appreciate it as much if you purchase it before. At 85 pgs, I think it's definitely worth the money, but only because I've seen him perform and admire him tremendously. 3. For the Beginner Anderson, George Magic Digest (1972, DBI Books) [SD] Don't know where you'd find this, but it is a very nice beginners book which opens with basic "rules" for magic and performing. It contains nice effects that are easy to learn but effective, covering cards, coins, ropes, etc. One particularly interesting effect is "The Australian Belt," a gambling trick using a chain (or rope could be substituted) which is folded into a figure-8 and then used to challenge a spectator to pick which loop would catch the finger and which would not. Why even mention this, of all things? I saw David Roth do this at a magicians' picnic a few years ago to keep a kid out of his way while he did his more interesting coin stuff for the adults. It was a memorable distraction and I looked around for it for a year until I came upon this book. Hay, Henry The Amateur Magician's Handbook (1982, Signet/New American Library) [SD] Reprint of a 1950 "classic" for the amateur. Lots of basic advice, but, as with many older works which just get reprinted rather than really updated as to language and layout, the prose is dense. Also as in many books (not just older ones reprinted), the photos are often dark -- illustrations seem to work out better in magic books unless the highest quality photography is used. However, this is a good introduction to magic and includes a "modern" section (by The Amazing Randi) on using video-tape to practice. Klutz Press The Klutz Book of Magic (????, Klutz Press) [FD] Don't underestimate the Klutz Book of Magic. I sat through a great lecture by Eric DeCamps and then realized that the "lecture notes" could be the Klutz Book of Magic! There is a ring steal on page 58 that is a classic in magic. The demonstrator from The Collector's Workshop used this sleight in his demonstration at Tannen's Jubilee. Lorayne, Harry The Magic Book (1977, Putnam) [SD] A good first book in magic and maybe the cheapest hard back book in existence (at $9 [still? - RD]) for its size and specialty topic. Lorayne's considered a good author and teacher of magic and this book covers basic card and coin sleights and effects as well as a smattering of number magic, mental effects, and miscellaneous magic with everyday objects. Tarr, Bill Now You See It, Now You Don't (Vols 1 & 2) & Classic Magic Tricks (19??, ????) [SD] Don't have these around at the moment and my mind went blank...arrgh! But, for the beginner, the first two of these are really recommended. (Supporting videos are available now, I believe.) They talk about basic sleights with cards, coins, balls, cigarettes, matches, thimbles, silks, etc. The third is an "everything you always wanted to know about" certain "platform magic" like how Linking Rings, Rice Bowls, etc. are done. 4. Card Magic Ackerman, Alan Esoterist (1971?, Ackerman) [RD] A small collection of variations for well-known card effects, some quite clever, including a number of methods for the "Jack sandwich". Not for the beginner. Annemann, Ted 202 Methods of Forcing (193?, ????) [SD] Just what it says. Just about every way is in here (and not just for forcing cards either), including stacked decks. Annemann, Ted Annemann's Card Magic (1977, Dover) [SD] Reprint from two prior works from 1943 and 1948. Some nice effects that are not hard to do but aren't too "simplistic," i.e., they look harder when you see them performed. Bannon, John Smoke and Mirrors (1991, Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] Card effects which Bannon feels "surprise" the audience rather than "merely challenge" them so that "the impossible thing itself [is] unexpected." Actually, his two-page Foreword is a nice little essay on magical philosophy as a lead-in to the (31) effects presented. Boudreau, Lou (Leo?) Spirited Pasteboards & Skullduggery (1987, 89, Rustic Press) [SD] Card effects using binary number system counting techniques to remember and identify cards, ordering, ranking, etc. Craven, Tom 16th Card Book (?,Craven) [RD] An exploration of a variety of effects that can be achieved by positioning a chosen card 16th from the top of the deck. Some tricks require perfect faro shuffles. de la Torre, Jose Real Magic (1978, de la Torre) [SD] Nice card effects, including various color changes. Dodson, Goodlette Exhibition Card Fans (?,?) [BB] A classic book is that teaches techniques for producing card fans. I bought my copy 15 years ago for $4. Don't know what the current price is. Erdnase, S.W. Expert at the Card Table, The (1902, Erdnase) [SD] The classic work on card "manipulation" focused mainly on gambling but with some "legerdemain" (literally, "light of hand") as well. Erdnase, S.W. and Ortiz, Darwin The Annotated Erdnase (?, Magical Publications) [DP] This book is a gem because it provides a tremendous cross-reference of moves, etc. That is, it mentions similar moves and variations in hundreds of other books. Few books do this. If you want to learn Erdnase - which some people consider mandatory, this is the book to get. [HM] Everything you ever wanted to know about cards is in there. No one will ever tell you that it is an easy book to master, and I don't know if ANYONE has truly mastered it all (except the Professor), but for learning how it should be done, this is the bible. It is a tough read, and the annotations and photographs added by Darwin make it an exceptional book. Fields, Ed and Schwartz, Michael Invisible Secrets Revealed (1976, Sorcerer's Apprentice) [RD] A booklet on presentations for the marketed trick "The Invisible Deck". We should all stop ripping off the Don Alan patter. Fulves, Karl Millennium Aces (1981, Fulves) [RD] Actually a booklet on applications of the half-pass. Some very clever methods for this sleight, including the Neil Elias half-pass, which is easy to do. Fulves, Karl Kaleidoscope (1989, Fulves) [RD] Fairly heavy card work. Nothing really grabbed me except "Force Feed", a very clever, simple, and honest-looking force. Fulves, Karl Self-Working Card Tricks & More Self-Working Card Tricks (1976 & 1984, Dover) [SD] Two paperbacks with basic, easy-to-learn and perform card effects "for the amateur magician." (From a series of books by Fulves on various aspects of easy magic effects.) [RD] These are all intended to be performable by those with little or no technical expertise, and hence rely on subtleties rather than sleights. Those who do have the skills will see many ways to dress up the effects. Favourite trick from the first book: the O. Henry trick. Ganson, Lewis Inner Secrets of Card Magic & More Inner Secrets & Further Inner Secrets & Ultimate Secrets of Card Magic (?,?) [SD] Several books of stuff from Dai Vernon, the patriarch of LA's Magic Castle. Some stuff for the person just beyond the beginner stage, but mostly effects of an intermediate nature. Includes classics like Twisted Aces. Ganson, Lewis and Endfield, Cy Entertaining Card Magic (1955, Supreme) [SD] The highlight of this book for card sleight fans is the Signed Card To Pocket trick which utilizes a variation of Erdnase's diagonal palm shift. Garcia, Frank Wildcard Miracles (1977, Garcia) [SD] The "Wildcard" routine and its variations, along with stuff like the Ambitious Card, are important intermediate effects to learn once you have basic sleights down. This book covers Wildcard well as an introduction to the effect Garcia created (though it evolved from other work done earlier which he credits). [RD] Most people seem to credit the original Wild Card to Peter Kane these days. Garcia, Frank Elegant Magic of Father Cyprian (?,?) [RD] Mr. Garcia was a great magician, but he couldn't write worth beans. His books are exquisite torture, because the magic is so good and the explanations are so over-written. This is no exception. Favourite trick: Solid Gold Deception. Garcia, Frank Exclusive Card Secrets & Exclusive Card Miracles (both 1980, ?) [RD] Ditto the comments under "Elegant Magic of Father Cyprian". The card work is very clever, and the entertainment value is very high. Favourite trick: Pinnacle Aces. Goldstein, Phil Focus (1991(?), Hermetic Press) [SD] The favorite/best card work of Phil Goldstein. Short on illustrations, but explanations seem clear enough. Green, Cliff Professional Card Magic (1979, Tannen Magic Inc.) [BD] A wonderful book with a lot of card sleights and techniques very well illustrated. Only for experts on card magic. Haines, Ronald 36 Tricks with Fa-Ko Cards (?, Haines House of Cards) [SD] The Fa-Ko deck is filled with bizarrely manufactured cards that you can slip into regular decks. This book describes effects to put them to use. It covers basic "gimmicked" card ideas and is interesting without the actual deck. (Making the cards yourself would be difficult, though.) Harris, Paul Supermagic (?, ?) [SD] For those interested in creative, sometimes wacky work. Supermagic gives us Reset: a good effect with no gaffes or fakery, just the cards themselves. Harris, Paul A Close-Up Kinda Guy (?, Tannen) [SD] Good stuff from Paul Harris with a few bizarre things (like a card flipping flourish) thrown in. Harris, Paul Las Vegas Close-up (1978, Chuck Martinez Productions) [BD] In my opinion one of the best book written by Paul. The effect "Stapled!" has been for 5 years my forte: a transposition of 2 cards which have been stapled together (and one is signed by a spectator!). Some improvements to the original effect are possible, but anyway it is worth the price of the book. Very interesting also "Gambler vs. Mentalist vs. Magician": a triumph effect with a very nice presentation. For cards+coins performers is "Silver Slide". 4 coins are produced under 4 cards: a good start for your matrix routine. Harris, Paul Close-up Entertainer (1979, Chuck Martinez Productions) [BD] "The Silver Elevator" is dedicated to cards+coins fans: 4 coins, one at a time, penetrate up from the table to the center of the deck. Also a classical move that every magician performing a matrix effect should know. I like very much "Ackerman's Face Lift": another nice transposition of 2 cards. Hopkins, Charles Outs, Precautions and Challenges (?,?) [DL] A GREAT book for card workers). This is a book of "outs" and philosophies therein. Here's a sample of the table of contents of the book: Whose fault when things go wrong? Psychology of Failure Attitudes that get cooperation Productions from pockets and other places First Aid for feeble memories "Outs" compared with challenges When the unruly spectator "gives you the works" What makes an audience get in the way? Handling hecklers Hugard, Jean Encyclopedia of Card Tricks (1974, Dover) [SD] A corrected version of a 1937 "classic" which covers over 600 card effects as well as explaining prearranged decks, gimmicked decks, and basic card sleights. Maybe the first book specializing in cards that a person would want to get. Simple effects, often tersely explained, but a good survey of effects. [RD] Includes the "Nicola" card system. An early form of MacDonald's Aces is in here, as well as French's Aces, which David Williamson teaches on his second (I think) video. [SFD] Lots of tricks, many IMHO long-winded and mechanical. Good sections on stripper and svengali decks. I so far like a few ideas, but haven't used it much. Hugard, Jean Card Manipulations "(Series 1-5) & More Card Manipulations (Series 1-4) (1973 & 1974, Dover) [SD] Reprints of monographs on various basic (and not so basic) card sleights and effects which use them. Hugard, Jean and Braue, Frederick Royal Road to Card Magic (1981, Faber) [SD] One of the "classic" card magic books (originally printed in 1949) on all kinds of card sleights. Few actual routines, but much useful material on handling cards. Hugard, Jean and Braue, Frederick Expert Card Technique (1974, Dover) [SD] Reprint of 1944 work that is a natural companion to The Royal Road to Card Magic. Contains much more material than Royal Road and, therefore, may be even a more useful reference once the former's sleights are known and practiced. [RD] Very good, but not a beginner's book. Apparently there was a bit of a scandal when this book first appeared, since much of the material is unattributed and was included without permission. [SFD] Lots of detailed directions, medium-quality drawings, dated handlings of some sleights (1940's) Jay, Ricky Cards as Weapons (?, ?) [MK] Interesting reading. Jay shows you his techniques for throwing cards. It's done VERY tongue-in-cheek and filled with some strange photos. Kaufman, Richard Secrets of Brother John Hamman (1989, Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] As creator of one of the basic card count sleights, Hamman's name pops up all over in many magic books. A nice collection of card magic. [RD] Favourite trick: The Locked Room. Favourite sleight: his double lift. It's my default choice now. Lorayne, Harry Close-Up Card Magic (1976, Tannen) [SD] Another in Lorayne's series of books on (mostly) card effects. (Every book claims he's "giving away the farm.") Lorayne, Harry Best of Friends Vol 1 & Vol 2 (1982 & 1985, Lorayne) [SD] Two inch-thick volumes of (mostly) card effects from a variety of folks who contributed to this collection, including Lorayne himself. Lorayne, Harry Deck-Sterity (1967, D. Robbins & Co.) [SD] When you're starting to seriously expand your card magic, i.e., you have basic sleights down, Lorayne's books are a good extension of what you have learned from more basic books. (But they are all relatively expensive books except The Magic Book.) Lorayne, Harry Afterthoughts (1975, Lorayne) [SD] Features the Ultra Move and several effects based on it as well as a few other "moves" Lorayne likes. Difficult stuff, generally. Lorayne, Harry Personal Secrets (1964, Tannen) [SD] Some fairly neat stuff once you get other basic card stuff down. Lorayne, Harry My Favorite Card Tricks (1965, Tannen) [SD] Not my favorite Lorayne book, but good for folks who like card effects and are beyond the basic stuff. [RD] Favourite trick: Impromptu Out of This World. It kills some people who know the working of the original, since you let the spectator shuffle the deck. Lorayne, Harry Reputation-Makers (1990, Lorayne) [SD] More neat stuff from Harry Lorayne for the intermediate to advanced card worker. Lorayne, Harry Rim Shots (?, Lorayne) [SD] More neat stuff from Harry Lorayne for the intermediate to advanced card worker. Lorayne, Harry Trend-Setters (?, Lorayne) [SD] More neat stuff from Harry Lorayne for the intermediate to advanced card worker. Lorayne, Harry Quantum Leaps (?, Lorayne) [SD] More neat stuff from Harry Lorayne for the intermediate to advanced card worker. What I liked about this book was that is contained material he does on video, so, after having seen it performed a few times through the video, I had a reference to go to at some point. MacDougall, Michael Card Mastery (1975, Tannen) [SD] This book contains card "manipulation" skills, especially for gambling, and is actually material from the late 1930's. However, the major attraction of the book is that it includes the complete text of Erdnase's The Expert at the Card Table. [RD] Wrt Erdnase, you might also consider Dai Vernon's "Revelations", which is basically a page by page commentary and explanation of the Erdnase book. It also contains the complete Erdnase text. Mentzer, Jerry Counts, Cuts, Moves, and Subtlety (1977, Mentzer) [SD] An important text on important card manipulation, focusing, as the title suggests, on ways to false count cards, cut them, spread them to conceal cards, etc. Worthwhile having, though the material is covered many other places, simply because it is all here in one place. Mentzer, Jerry Basic Skill With Cards (1981, Mentzer) [SD] A very useful booklet covering false cuts and shuffles, controls, sleights (like the "glide"), forces, and palming. Mentzer, Jerry Fechter (?,?) [DP] A tribute to the late great Eddie Fechter, legend of the Forks Hotel. Lots of Fechter bits and tricks. Most things are simple and direct, wasting no time so that the spectators will buy another beer. No gaffes, no stories. Some things are brilliant, most good. Easy to difficult. Includes entire text of "Magician Nitely". Minch, Stephen The Collected Works of Alex Elmsley, Vol I (1991(?), L&L Publishing) [SD] The objective of this two-volume set of Elmsley is to cover his work completely. Only this first volume is available at this point. Besides lots of interesting card work, including Elmsley's own explanations of his "ghost" count known to most as the Elmsley Count, there is a lecture "On the Theory and Practice of Magic." Minch states that Vol II will contain, among other things, the performance portion of the lecture in full detail. Minch says this lecture was highly regarded when Elmsley toured the U.S.A. many years ago. [RD] An outstanding book. Elmsley was a subtle thinker, (he's still alive, but not active in magic) and many of his creations are simply brilliant. A few of the effects in this book (which contains dozens of tricks) involve more "dealing through the deck" than is popular right now, but I think that for the right audience, these tricks go over quite well. Favourite trick: Serendipity (a fantastic "collectors"). Minch, Stephen Vernon Chronicles, The vols. 1-3 (198?, 198?, 198?, L&L Publ.) & Lost Inner Secrets Volume 1 (1987, L&L Publishing) [SD] Several books of stuff from Dai Vernon, the patriarch of LA's Magic Castle. Mostly cards. Some stuff for the person just beyond the beginner stage, but mostly effects of an intermediate nature. Includes classics like Twisted Aces and Triumph. Minch, Stephen Daryl's Ambitious Card Omnibus (1987, ?) [SD] (Actually written in 1985.) Contains an entire history of the Ambitious Card effect and shows various ways to present/use it. An excellent book on a single effect and its variations. Minch, Stephen Larry Jennings' Neoclassics (1987, L&L Publishing) [SD] Subtitled "Three Complete Lesson in Professional Card Presentation," this book has three effects embellishing more familiar themes: the card in the orange, the spectator finds the aces, and cards across. Nash, Martin Ever So Sleightly & Any Second Now & Sleight Unseen (1975, 77, 79, Micky Hades International) [SD] Subtitled "The Professional Card Technique of Martin A. Nash," this series covers, as the subtitle suggests, covers many basic -- and not-so-basic -- card sleights and techniques, using effects to demonstrate them. A good book for the intermediate magician, but pretty technical and detailed for a newcomer. Ortiz, Darwin Darwin Ortiz at the Card Table (?, Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] Ortiz is a sheer genius with cards and gambling tricks. He lectures to police and security folks, consults with casinos, etc. The stuff in this book is really hard to do, for the most part. Seeing Ortiz is better than reading about what he does. But there are a few things here that are within the realm of human possibility! [RD] Favourite trick: Modern Jazz Aces. Osterlind, Richard Breakthrough Card System (?,Busby) [RD] A mathematical system for stacking a deck that leaves it looking totally random (and hence examinable), but which permits all of the effects possible with Si Stebbins, Eight Kings, etc, and other stacks that will not bear inspection. At $5, this is a bargoon! I always carry this with me, and use it for a "just think of a card" presentation. It astonishes. Ouellet, Gary Procontrol (?,Camirand) [RD] If you buy this for the advertised effect, be prepared to be VERY disappointed. Exactly the same technique is explained in complete detail in Bill Severn's Magic Workshop, which is probably in your public library. However, Procontrol contains a tutorial on the spread pass which is great - it's worth the price of the book, if you are interested in simple and deceptive methods for the pass (so who isn't?). Racherbaumer, John The Wild Card Kit: A Modular Experiment (1992,?) [SD] Racherbaumer has put together a "theme" book just on the Wild Card effect which he states comes originally from Brother John Hamman's "The Mystic Nine" and became the Wild Card through Peter Kane (whose handling is part of the book). The book breaks the effect into several stages and shows variations at each point, including a version with plain cards that can be handed out to the audience. (Though less extensive, it is like Daryl's Ambitious Card Omnibus.) There is a nice bibliography as well for those who wish to pursue the subject further. All in all, it's a compact coverage of a 'classic' effect (and even comes with the requisite packet of cards). Racherbaumer, John Universal Card, The (1975, Tannen) [SD] Like "Wildcard" and the "Ambitious Card," this is a basic routine with many variations. Racherbaumer's book covers the subject well and gives a history of the effect. Ross, Faucett Early Vernon (1962, Magic Inc.) [RD] Dai Vernon's earliest creations continue to impress. These tricks were marketed to a small group of magicians by giving them a complete description of the effects, then offering to sell the workings. The famous "psychological force" is in here. Scarne, John Scarne on Cards Tricks (1950, Signet/New American Library) [SD] Paperback of card effects that you can probably find in any mall book store. [RD] Contains simplified handlings (virtually no sleights anywhere) of a number of well-known plots. Not to be scorned because of general availability. Sharpe, Alton Expert Card Mysteries (1975, Tannen Magic Inc.) [BD] A collection of moves and card tricks from Tony Kardyro, Frank Lane, Alton Sharpe itself and many others. There are special sections dedicated to Larry Jennings, Paul Swinford and Ed Marlo. Sharpe, Alton Expert Card Conjuring & Chicanery (1976, D. Robbins and Co.) [BD] Another collection of card tricks from the world experts. The special sections on the most important sleights and effects by Marlo are the most valuable parts of the book. You will find for example: the Perfect False Riffle Shuffle, Marlo Slip Cuts, Double Lift Substitutes, many Triumphs, etc. Simon, Frank Versatile Card Magic (1983, Magical Publications) [SD] Has great food for thought. His Versatile Spread Controls were a fad among young card workers in Japan. This is one of those books that makes you want to go out and show somebody what you just learned. Really nice card control. Not entirely original, although the handling described sees print for the first time. Stevenson, Al 75 Tricks with a Svengali Deck (1964, Wizard's Workshop) [SD] As it sounds, a book on how to use this gimmicked deck. Stevenson, Al 75 Tricks with a Stripper Deck (1962, Wizard Books) [SD] As it sounds, a book on how to use this gimmicked deck. Tamariz, Juan Sonata (?, Frakson) [DP] Interesting collection of moves, theory and detailed routines. Senor Tamariz loves to out-think his audience, and a number of the routines are crafted with immense care and delight. There is, however, a huge variation in level of difficulty and value throughout. 5. Coin Magic Andrus, Jerry Five Dollar Tricks (1973, J A Enterprises)) [RD] Silver dollars, that is. This booklet (five routines) includes a nice effect of producing coins from a dollar bill which is continually shown on both sides. Bobo, J.B. New Modern Coin Magic (1966, Magic, Inc.) [SD] The "classic" book on all aspects of coin magic. If you're going to do coin magic, this is a book you need to have. Dover has a much less expensive paperback edition of this available now. [E?] the standard, very complete with sleights and effects, although some of the effects are considered "dated" by some. There are two versions available, a Dover paperback for <$10.00 and a hard cover (called "New Modern Coin Magic" with about 100 extra pages of sleights and routines) which is available for about $30.00 Fulves, Karl Self-Working Coin Magic (1989, Dover) [SD] Easy to learn and perform effects with coins for beginning magicians. Futagawa, Shigeo Introduction to Coin Magic (1978, Borden Publishing Co.) [JB] An excellent introduction to coin magic. This book includes many, clear, line-drawing illustrations. Most common sleights are well-described and illustrated together with quite a few effects. This book is not as extensive as Bobo or Roth, but very good for beginners in coin magic. Jennings, Nina et al Larry Jennings on Card and Coin Handling (1977, Jeff Busby Magic Inc.) [SD] A booklet which, besides cards and coins, includes Larry Jennings' Chop Cup routine. It's based on magic lectures Jennings developed in 1967 and 1970 Kaufman, Richard Coinmagic (1981, Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] A collection of coin magic routines from many people, compiled by Richard Kaufman. After Bobo's book, perhaps the most useful intermediate coin magic book. As usual, the illustrations are very good. [E?] an excellent book of "new" sleights and effects by a number of current coin manipulators, most notably David Roth (not the guy from Van Halen!). It covers a few of the basic sleights, including the shuttle pass and Roth's handling of the Retention Vanish, but it is assumed that you have some background in coins (which can be obtained in Bobo). The effects vary from intermediate to difficult. "Hanging coins" is a popular effect from the book. Kurtz, Gary Coin Magic (1990, Kurtz) [SD] Booklet of good stuff to move a beginning coin worker along. Roth, David Expert Coin Magic (1985, D. Robbins) [SD] Originally published by Richard Kaufman, this book covers most of the things you will have seen Roth do over the years. As perhaps the most skilled coin magician in modern magic, Roth sets technical standards with his work. The book, like most of what Kaufman has published, has fine illustrations. Highly recommended for someone who really wants to get into coin magic by learning some nice (but not easy) routines. [DH] A pricey and hard to find book, I have been coveting this for some time. The sheer volume of material kind of overwhelms you, somewhat like opening Bobo for the first time. The up side is that the writing and drawings are of the highest quality. If the drawings where photos, I would have said this was the perfect magic book. The book is well organized into 3 sections: general coin magic, coin box magic, and some of David's major routines. I found lots of material that I could master, plus lots that I probably never will (routines where you classic palm 4 coins the whole time until the end...Not). I thought the coin box stuff was the most unique. He has tons of Okito (and all the variations of the coin box) routines that never use a turnover. Very clever. A definite "must have" for anyone doing coins. Now if only I could afford some of Roth's videos. [E?] this book was out of print, but I believe that it has been reprinted by Robbins. This is an awesome tome of very modern moves and routines covering the effects and technique of David Roth. It has sections on coin box routines and includes Roth's famous "Portable Hole" routine. A must-have for any serious student of coin magic. Simmons, Ken Scotch and Soda (Parts 1 and 2) (1982, 86, Magic City) [SD] Two booklets on how to use the Scotch 'n' Soda effect. I actually picked these up in Disney's Magic Kingdom Magic Shop in Walt Disney World -- Disneyland's is, overall, a superior shop, but both had decent booklets on magic. 6. Card & Coin Combinations Kaufman, Richard Complete Works of Derek Dingle, The (1982, Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] Derek Dingle does (mostly) cards and this work by Kaufman covers most of the stuff the folks associate with Derek. A good modern book on card magic, but not easy by any means. [DP] Includes some truly classic effects. Others have bewildering descriptions. Many items with gaffed cards and coins. Lots of clues for the development of useful sleights (e.g., Silent Steal, Zarrow shuffle, Riffle Pass, Double lift -- Dingle's is the best I've seen). Favorite effect: Regal Royal Flush. Kaufman, Richard Williamson's Wonders (1989, Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] Magic from a well-respected "new" name. People who have seen David Williamson perform/lecture seem to really like him. Definitely good card/coin stuff here. Kaufman, Richard Sankey Pankey (1986, Kaufman & Greenberg) [SD] The works of Jay Sankey, including Forgery - An amazing routine that gets great mileage out of a simple duplicate marked card. The effect: A card is marked with a big X. X mark 'jumps' from back to face, to back, and then... Split Ends - Anyone who has ever seen or read the late Nate Leipzeig's Knife between two selected cards trick will appreciate this fresh new treatment. Apparently, Stephen Minch proposed the idea and solution of doing it with one card, that is card stabbing into the layers of a selected card. Jay's handling is really ingenious and one of my favorites. Some really twisted coin effects are also in this 121 page hard cover book making a great treat to the magician that is looking for a book with more than just one good trick in it. [RD] This book also contains the "card through balloon" trick that Copperfield did on TV. It was my favourite trick from the book before that, and still is. Kurtz, Gary Continuations ... Departures, 1&2 (1988, Kurtz) [SD] Another booklet on coin magic plus a few things with cards. Lorayne, Harry Star Quality - The Magic of David Regal (1987, Lorayne) [RD] Mostly cards, but also some coins (and even Q-tips!). This is a fine book. Mr. Regal is very creative, and very conscious of the visual aspects of magic. Favourite trick: Divining Card. Maxwell, Mike Classic Magic of Larry Jennings (198?, L&L Publishing) [SD] Just a ton of stuff with cards (and some coins). [RD] An outstanding book. Favourite trick: The Visitor - an absolute classic. [TN] The BEST BOOK IN THE WORLD!!!! If you want to learn how to do first-rate card tricks (I do), go out and find the <<<<Larry Jennings>>>> book. This guy is the absolute Ninja. He is right up there with Brother Hamman (sp?). I mean it. You won't regret it. Maxwell, Mike Commercial Magic of J.C. Wagner (198?, L&L Publishing) [SD] One of the most respected of magic's "underground" names. Wagner was, like many other magicians, a bartender who did his magic in (or at) the bar. [RD] This is available in soft cover now. A great book for the money. Favourite trick: The Assembly. Minch, Stephen Carneycopia (?, L&L Publishing) [DP] Simple, direct material, mostly without gaffes. Very well written and explained. Many strong sequences and a few routines. Some really clever ideas, but the better stuff is often the most difficult. Easy to impossible. No crystals or toy mice here. Ouellet, Gary Close-Up Illusions (1990, Camirand Academy of Magic) [SD] A fine book on different approaches to common sleights such as the French Drop, Double Lift, etc. A companion video-tape can be purchased that shows all the sleights performed -- probably worthwhile (at $20) since seeing magic performed is more important than being told about it or looking at pictures. [FD] I think it's a great book. It is very well written, and is loaded with tips. There's a section on the "Cigarette through the Coin" which is great. Gary writes about how all of us sometimes buy a prop which then ends up in a drawer because we think it's too difficult to use. He uses this trick as an example and then proceeds to tell you how the effect can be done effectively and be a killer. I tried it and it was great! The effect had previously sat in a drawer for over a year. I've also met Gary at conventions and he is a real gentleman. He is willing to spend time with you just to say hello or to discuss an effect. The last time I spoke to him and told him I much I liked the book, he told me that the Modified Kosky Illusion at the end of the book was worth the price of the book. He then proceeded to show me the effect. [JB] I have an extensive library and this is my favorite. Most items in the book are explained in terms that anyone can understand. I am a technical writer and have found few books on magic written so clearly. If you are primarily interested in close-up magic, then definitely buy this book. [DH] I bought this book a couple months ago to take on a business trip. I didn't put it down until I was done (~400 pages). Gary really brings a fresh attitude to magic and it comes out in his writing. The book is filled to the brim with photos (over 500, many with multiple angle shots on the same move). He covers a lot of card stuff. One criticism I have is the space spent on describing about 10 different double lifts. There are many "building block" moves that could be used in other routines. There is also a fair amount of coin magic. He does a treatise on the French drop which is quite interesting. Also gives about 5 different variations on it. The big win factor for this book is that the many photos make it easy to learn from. The magic ranges from simple (the first trick is a variation on the ColorView cube we all got in our first magic set) to the difficult (card moves in particular). The only other criticism I have with the book (or any magic book for that matter) is several references to other books he has written. I hate that, particularly when they are the "now use the move I described in X but won't describe here because you obviously have my other book" variety. I liked the book so well that I bought the companion video about a month later (I am on a monthly magic budget). This is an idea that is long overdue. The video shows all the sleights as they would appear when performed. He (generally) does not show an entire routine or a slo-mo version of the sleight. Gary goes to great lengths to state that it is not a teaching video, but to show you how a move looks. It really gave me a sense of the timing needed to make the moves work. The video quality is not high, but then neither is the price, compared to any other video you would buy. It looks like Gary and his publisher just set up the camcorder in the living room and went to work. Don't get me wrong, everything is very visible and clear and this is a valuable tool when combined with the book. [DP] - some valuable tips on hand care - chapter on the classic force with excellent suggestions (as an aside, if someone claims to be able to classic force the same card on 100 people in a row (as G.O. does) this says more about the people with which the magician associates than the magician himself. _Nobody_ can classic force with success on my S.O. for example --- she reaches over with both hands :-) - some good card effects and handling tips - dice stacking chapter Powers, Michael Top Secret Stuff (?, ?) [MK] This book is mostly card effects with some coin and other objects. There are some effects that are very difficult. Some of the moves needed for the effects are Marlo's ATFUS, kelly bottom, a pass... Definitely not for the beginner. 7. Mentalism Annemann, Ted Practical Mental Magic (1983, Dover) [SD] Reprint of a 1944 Annemann book which is one of the basic texts for learning mentalism. [SFD] This is a view into another world for me - the world between magic and the con game. Audacious - some day I'll get the nerve to try some of this stuff! Much outdated equipment, but a lot of this stuff looks to me like it would work and be very commercial. Becker, Larry Larry Becker's World of Super Mentalism (1978, Tannen) [SD] Some nice mentalism effects that are not hard to do. Corinda 13 Steps to Mentalism (1968, Tannen) [SD] A "classic" work but, some feel, flawed because it often obscures the important stuff it has to say with a lot of verbiage. (However, older books often seem to be written very pompously.) Fulves, Karl Self-Working Mental Magic (?, Dover) [RD] A collection of basic methods for a variety of mental magic, including predictions, psychometry, book tests, etc. Favourite trick: "bill-halves into the sealed envelope" - DEADLY! 8. Other Magic Albenice Reel Magic (1950, Tannen) [SD] The main treatise on use of "the reel." Like many such "classic" works, it shows its age, but is still one of the only books on this topic. Anderson, Gene and Marshall, Frances Newspaper Magic (1968, Magic Inc.) [RD] A wide variety of tricks using newspaper, including Anderson's award-winning paper-tearing and paper-folding act. Anderson's torn-and-restored newspaper is something of a classic. It's my favourite trick in this book. Caveney, Mike Harry Anderson - Wiseguy (?,?) [MK] As a HA fan I loved this book. It filled with great stories and every routine that Anderson is known for is explained -- Marked, Gang of Four, Skippy (Needle thru arm is not really explained, but it is discussed...) Fitzkee, Dariel Rope Eternal (1984, D. Robbins & Co.) [SD] Robbins edition of a 1956 monograph on "The Only Six Ways to Restore a Rope" which focuses on the Cut-and-Restored Rope effects. Includes numerous effects based on these techniques. Basic book for folks who are interested in this effect and its variations. Fulves, Karl Self-Working Paper Magic (1985, Dover) [SD] Easy to learn and perform effects with paper for beginning magicians. Many based on "topology" tricks, paper folding, and effects with money. Ganson, Lewis Reelistic Magic (?, Supreme) [RD] A small collection of tricks using reels. A bit more modern than Albenice's book, but still dated. James, Stewart Abbott's Encyclopedia of Rope Tricks for Magicians (1975, Dover) [SD] Reprint of a 1945 work covering all aspects of magic with ropes covering knots, penetrations (one and two rope varieties), cut- and restored, the "Hindoo" rope trick, and miscellaneous effects. [SFD] I find this book outstanding; clear and imaginative, with many alternate workings for tricks. Marci, Jill The Art of Clowning (1993, ?) [JM] I have authored a book called the art of clowning...It's been reviewed in Genii Magazine...the book deals with children's magic, nightclub magic, magician versus clown magic, magic at festivals, fairs, on television. It also deals with designing a clown face, animal balloons, puppetry. Promotional ideas, selling yourself, plus more. 62 pages book sells for $12.50 plus $5.00 shipping and handling Foreword to the book is written by Goldfinger and Dove. Marshall, Frances The Sponge Book (?, Magic Inc.) [SD] Lots of advice (in a small booklet) on sponge magic, including explanation of Al Goshman's routine with the invisible purse. Mishell, Ed and Abe Hurwitz ELASTRIX (1979, Magico Magazine) [HS] Rubber Bands - Tricks, Stunts and Puzzles Novak, Bob Jack Miller's Famous Linking Ring Routine (1976, Tannen) [SD] Reprint of a 1945 monograph on one well-known Linking Ring routine which includes a variety of ways to display rings during the routine. One could take these individual ideas and craft shorter routines as well as reorder the one that's here. Penn and Teller How to Play with Your Food (?,?) [Anonymous] Got the book last week-end, spent all afternoon reading it, almost wet myself. Definitely worth the price, but don't get your hopes up about the included gimmicks, they're pretty lame. NOTE: the sugar packets originally supplied were defective and have been recalled. Penn & Teller Penn & Teller's Cruel Tricks for Dear Friends (?,?) [MK] I guess there are actual tricks in here, but its mostly fun stories. They do explain how to cut & restore a snake and how to annoy Letterman. A must for any P&T fan. Rice and Van Zandt Through the Dye Tube (1971, Silk King Studios) [SD] Reprint of a 1943 document on use of the dye tube for vanishing, producing, and performing color changes with silks. A basic text on working with a dye tube for silks. Seabrooke, Terry Around the World with a Baking Tin (?,?) [MK] Terry gives his routine for his burned bill and linking rings. He also includes tips for the MC and worker. Interesting reading, good stories, but I'm not sure I'll use anything in it. Shute, Merlyn How-To Book of the Chop Cup (1980, Morrissey Magic Ltd) [SD] A monograph on the use of the Chop Cup. Shute, Merlyn Out of Your Pocket (?, Morrissey Magic Ltd) [RD] More than the title suggests, this booklet gives some pointers for choosing effects to perform professionally in a restaurant setting, choosing a professional name, etc. Favourite trick: Sid Lorraine's handling for the cut and restored rope. Shute, Merlyn How-To Book of the Zombie (1983, Morrissey Magic Ltd) [SD] A monograph on the use of the Zombie. Shute, Merlyn Cups, Cups, Cups (1980, Morrissey Magic Ltd) [SD] A monograph on the use of the Cups and Balls. Walsh, Audley Sponge Ball Manipulations (1940, Tannen) [RD] A booklet of routines using mostly standard, but also some non-standard sponge balls. Includes the "Master Routine". Some clever moves, but the routines are very dated. Weigle, Oscar and Dell, Alan Money Magic of Mike Bornstein, The (1980, Magico Magazine) Lees, Walt More Money Magic of Mike Bornstein (198?, Magico Magazine) Bornstein, Mike Latest Money Magic of Mike Bornstein (1988, Bornstein) [SD] Set of three booklets on magic with dollar bills: floating them, folding them, tearing them, etc. Willmarth, Phillip Ring and Rope Book (Vol One) (1976, Willmarth) [SD] A survey of things to do with rope and a single ring (metal or wooden). For those who do the Linking Rings and or rope effects, maybe you'd like putting them together for some variety. (Some folks like to do this sort of stuff with silks and rings.) [RD] This is a fine book, but it has more typos per page ("left hand" instead of "right hand", etc) than any other I've seen. Once you sort them out, some of the tricks are great. Favourite trick: Quicksilver. 9. History/Reference Alfredson, James and Daily, George A Bibliobraphy of Conjuring Periodicals in English: 1791 - 1983 (1986, Magic of Collectors) [GH] This bibliography lists over 7500 periodicals. It is the bible for magazine collectors. Enough said. Blackstone, Harry Jr. The Blackstone Book of Magic and Illusion (?, ?) [MK] A nice picture book of magical history. Naturally there's lots of stuff about his dad and himself, but it's interesting. He also includes some simple tricks at the end. Christopher, Milbourne Illustrated History of Magic, The (1973, Crowell) [SD] A very nice history of magic book. A "coffee table" book, but good information. [RD] Is this the book where Christopher perpetuates the myth about one of the pyramids of Egypt containing a picture of a magician performing the cups and balls? Clark, Hyla World's Greatest Magic, The (1976, Tree Communications) [SD] A "coffee table" book about personalities in magic both past and present (around the time of this book, e.g., Doug Henning). An interesting book, however, for those who want to know about some of the folks who have (and do) make a name for magic. The book also discusses some magic effects (including large stage illusions) and how they are done in a special section by The Amazing Randi. Clark, Sidney The Annals of Conjuring (1983, Magico Magazine) [GH] This is a reprint of series that ran in "The Magic Wand" from 1924-1928. The one book I would take to a desert island. The greatest history of magic written. This is one of the books that you can read at the beach. While the level of detail is amazing, Clark's style of writing is so enjoyable that it seems an easy read. This book covers the magic in England and Europe up until the early 1900's. Coleman, Earle Magic: A Reference Guide (1987, Greenwood Press) [GH] It discusses 100's of magic books, and is a rather hard read. Cox, J. Randolph Man of Magic and Mystery: A Guide to the Work of Walter B. Gibson (1988, Scarecrow Press) [JC] I visited him often in the last decade of his life and took most of my notes for the book from his own collection and from interviews with him. A fascinating man. Dawes, Edwin The Great Illusionists (1979, Chartwell Books) [GH] One of my favorites. It contains some wonderful chapters on some far reaching areas of magic history. Everything from learned animals to Houdini. The depth of research is amazing, one of the best reference work around. It is based on Dawes's series of articles in the "Magic Circular". Well illustrated, this book can be picked up in used book stories for around $5. Dawes, Edwin and Setterington, Arthur Encyclopedia of Magic, The (1986, Gallery Books) [SD] Mainly a "picture book" (color and B&W) discussing the history of magic and some of its major categories such as escapes, stage illusions, mentalism, levitations, card magic, etc. Also includes some current -- at the time of the book and shortly before -- personalities. [RD] No relation, at least not that we can determine. Fisher, John Paul Daniels and the Story of Magic (1987, Jonathan Cape Ltd) [RD] Basically a rave-up about Daniels (who is admittedly pretty good), but also has a lot of interesting information about the development of magic as an entertainment form. Forrester, Stephen A Bibliography of Magic Classics (1993, limited edition of 150) [GH] This books covers the writings of 58 authors, and has an extensive bibliography of publications on magic collecting. This is a must have if you are into magic book collecting. Last I heard the only copies left are the leather bound ones at $200 plus. Gibson, Walter The Master Magicians (1966, Citadel) [RD] Historical and biographical information about the greats of years gone by. Interesting stuff. Gill, Robert Magic as a Performing Art (1976, Bowker) [GH] A nice general overview of just over 1000 magic books. Jay, Ricky Learned Pigs and Fireproof Women (?,?) [MK] Jay describes a section of entertainment not commonly found. The man who grows, folks with strange mental powers, pig-faced ladies, people who musically expel intestinal gas -- Not your typical magicians. I have read the book and I still can't remember how Max Malini got into this bunch. Pecor, Charles The Magician on the American Stage 1752 - 1874 (1977, Emerson and West) [GH] This is Charles Pecor's PhD thesis, and what a thesis it is. It gives a detailed history of the growth of magic in America up until the late 1800's. Based on searches through newspaper files, books and other records, he really does a great job of breathing life into early American magic. Price, David Magic: A Pictoral History of Conjuring in the Theatre (1985, Cornwall Books) [GH] This is the single best history of magic in English. It covers the greats and not so greats in more detail than you want. It contains 100's of illustrations and has a wonderful color poster section. If you only have one book on magic history, this is the one to have. It costs about $60. Randi, James Conjuring (1992, St. Martin's Press) [MK] Some nice photos. Some historical & biographical info. Still not sure how Randi decided who to include in the book -- its impossible to include everyone. Stott, Raymond Toole A Bibliography of English Conjuring 1581-1876 (1976, Harpur and Sons) & A Bibliography of English Conjuring 1569-1876, Volume Two (1978, Harpur and Sons) [GH] These two volumes are the book collector's bible, enough said. Waters, T.A. Encyclopedia of Magic and Magicians (1988, Facts On File Publ.) [SD] Just what is sounds like: a one-volume reference book on people, effects, and places related to magic. Can't think of a better book to have for such purposes given its reasonable price ($20). It doesn't explain effects but tells you what they are about, i.e., explains the parlance of the magical arts. Includes some photographs of personalities mentioned. 10. Business Issues in Magic Charles, Kirk Standing Up Surrounded (1989, Hermetic Press) [SD] Advice about performing in a crowd on your feet with a Foreword by Eugene Burger. Covers the kinds of bookings you're likely to get requiring such performance conditions and deals with subjects like "Food and Drink," "Problem Audiences" (e.g., children, repeaters, drunks, jerks, and -- ta-da -- The Exposer), "Promoting," "Selling," sample contracts, and advice on selecting material for such venues. Charles, Kirk Manual of Restaurant Magic (1987, Conjurers' Press) [SD] Just what it sounds like: advice on performing in restaurants -- Foreword by Eugene Burger. Sections cover preparation, booking, selling, and, of most concern, the actual working of such an audience. As opposed to standing up and walking around, it is likely you'll be sitting at individual tables with a small group (though some may end up behind you). It talks about getting tips and getting away from a group politely, too. Ulman, Al Business of Restaurant Magic (?,?) [RD] This covers much of the same ground as Kirk Charles's book. Lots of sound advice for starting out as a restaurant magician. 11. Performing for Children Easley, Bert Doing Magic for Youngsters (1972, D. Robbins) [RD] From the style, I think this was written much earlier than 1972. Even so, it contains a wealth of advice that is valid today. Ginn, David Children Laugh Louder (1978, Scarlett Green) [RD] Basically a collection of routines and gags that Mr. Ginn has used (in 300 shows per year) and found to be amusing for school-age children. Some very useful ideas. I've used his "Silk Illusion" opener with good results. Ginn, David Professional Magic for Children (1976, Scarlett Green) [RD] Lots of intelligent advice from an expert. Tells you how to construct a show for children, including proper sequencing of effects. Also includes several routines to illustrate the points. Get this one before you get Children Laugh Louder. -- -- Mike Kamlet mike@vpnet.chi.il.us Archive-name: magic-faq/part3 Last-modified: April 12, 1994 Frequently asked questions in alt.magic/part3 (of 4) Last modified: April 12, 1994 Please send suggested corrections and additions to: mike@vpnet.chi.il.us Topics: Part 3 VI. OTHER MAGIC REFERENCES VI-A. MAGAZINES VI-B. VIDEOS ------------------------------------------------------------------------- VI. OTHER MAGIC REFERENCES ------------------------------------------------------------------------- VI-A. MAGAZINES ON MAGIC The following list of magic magazines is from contributions from the following people: barnett@grymoire.crd.ge.com (Bruce Barnett) nielsen@eecs.umich.edu (Paul Nielsen) NHJV85A@prodigy.com (MR GARY E HUNT) ----------------------------------------------------------------------- General Magic ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Genii PO Box 36068 Los Angeles, CA 90036 $30 a year for 12 issues. Color cover, 80 pages an issue. The largest circulation of any magazine. Everyone should get this just for the ads, as most items are advertized here. Some columns are useless. I currently enjoy "The Giorgio Letters" which describes how the Erdnase book is a lot of bull. Jamy Ian Swiss is the current book reviewer.. ------- MAGIC - an Independent Magazine for Magicians. Circulation Department 13337 E. South St. #310 Cerritos, CA 90701 (310) 860-1508 (phone/fax) $30 a year/ 12 issues. Similar to Genii (actually - they are competitors) Color cover and color inside. Columns by Paul Gertner (performance tips), Richard Kaufman (editor of the magic section), and reviews by Mike Weber. In my (st922964@pip.cc.brandeis) opinion, is certainly the BEST magic magazine out there. It is where I learn about 90% of my magic news and features very interesting articles by the likes of Stan Allen and Michael Caveney. ----- Goodliffe's Abracadabra Published weekly. $88.50 for 52 issues 20 pages each issue. (Send $2.00 in cash for sample issue ) Goodliffe Publications 150 New Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 2LG. England ----- Magigram 12 issues for $35 Supreme Magic Company Supreme House, Bideford, Devon EX39 2AN England ----- Precursor: A Magazine of Innovation unikorn magic 2215 Mytle St. Erie, PA 16502 Edited by Bill Miesel 3 issues a year $16 in US. Canada, Mexico, $19 elsewhere Similar to Ibidem. Mostly new/experimental card work. ------- The Trapdoor Steven L. Beam Trapdoor Productions 407 Carrington Drive Knightdale, NC 27545 (919) 266-7900 5 issues a year $30 USA, $42.50 Overseas Excellent artwork and Humor, Closeup ------- The Minotaur P.O. Box 470025 Broadview Hts. Oh 44147 $18/year (I think 4-5 issues) This is Dan Harlan's magazine and its suppose to be one of the best close up magazines. Not much card stuff. Dan's has a great mind (I should probably get a subscription-- Mike Kamlet) Apocolypse Harry Lorayne 62 Jane Street NY NY 10074 $48/12 issues Contains a lot of heavy duty card magic ----------------------------------------------------------------------- New Age, Bizarre Magic, Mentalism, Occult, Tarot, Crystals, etc ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Magick (Edited by Bascom Jones) 7107 Weldon Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93308 $25 for 26 issues. 4-6 pages per issue. (Every other week a bonus insert in included.) This magazine specializes in mentalism. ------- Snake-Oil Almanack P. O. Box 465 Monroe, MI 48161-0465 4 issues @ $20. An issue is two books 4" by 5 1/2", ~20-30 pages each book. The presentation is in one, and the method is in the other. Published quarterly, hopefully. Specializes in Bizarre, New Age, Occult presentations. ------- Krypts Quarterly Crier c/o David Zver 89 West Broad St. Bethehem, PA 18018 4 issues for $20. An issue is 16 pages of 8 1/2 by 11. Specializes in Bizarre, New Age, Occult presentations. ------- The New Invocation (Edited by Docc Hilford) PO Box 17163 Phoenix, AZ 85011 $20 for 12 issues (12 pages, 8 1/2" by 11") Published irregularly. Specializes in Bizarre, New Age, Occult presentations. ------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Magazine for Collectors ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Aphelion Thomas A. Sawyer 521 S. Lyon St., No. 105 Santa Ana, CA 92701 $30 ----------------- Magic Collector's Bulletin George Daily's Magacana for Collectors 3778 Cayuga Lane York, PA 17402 (717) 757-3098 $4 for current issue ----------------- The Collectors' Forum Fred Evans editor PO. Box 391 Knoxville, TN, 37901 This quarterly publication costs $20 per year. It is based on letters and short articles that reads submit, and thus has a very friendly feeling. Fred includes with each issue various magic "stuff", which itself is collectable. Well worth the money. ------------- Magicol David Meyers PO BOX 427 Glenwood, ILL 60425 this is the quarterly publication of the Magic Collectors Association. For information on joining write David Meyers, PO Box 427, Glenwood, Ill, 60425. The dues are $20 per year. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Magic Clubs ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Linking Ring (monthly magazine) International Brotherhood of Magicians PO Box 192090 St. Lousis MO 63119-9998 Tele: (314) 351-7677 Fax: (314) 353-4771 ---- M. U. M. (monthly magazine) Richard Blowers, National Administrator P.O. Box 510260 St. Louis, MO 63151 (314) 846-5659 ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Special Interests ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Rubber Chicken Chronicles Comedy and Christian Newsletter Send $2 for sample issue P. O. Box 505 Sweetwater, TN 37874 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- VI-B. VIDEOS ON MAGIC The following is a list of video tapes on magic. The intent is to list tapes which instruct rather than tapes of magic performances. If you are interested in the later, Jeff Isozaki (jti01@duts.ccc.amdahl.com) posts a monthly list of "Magic in Movies" indicating movies, actors, and scenes in which magic appears. Contributors: Sleight of Hans <HCM100@psuvm.psu.edu> cragaisi@isis.cs.du.edu (Chris) georgec@eng.umd.edu (George B. Clark) gumby@matt.ksu.ksu.edu (David B. Gumminger) halw@hpwrce.mayfield.hp.com (Hal Work) jti01@duts.ccc.amdahl.com (Jeff Isozaki) msibbern@nyx.cs.du.edu (Michael Sibbernsen) nielsen@eecs.umich.edu (Paul Nielsen) nigel@ietech.demon.co.uk ("Nigel G. Backhurst") Advanced Card Work - all of the Tannen's Stars of Magic-Paul Harris series. Paul is good, funny, and weird. The tapes are extremely well done, and the selection of magic is commercial (i.e. not just finger flinging to impress other magicians, its finger flinging to impress _everybody_!) Definitely not for beginners! Animation and Levitation - Kevin James' Floating Rose This tape is phenomenal! You might never do the floating rose, but you learn everything you need to do levitiation and animation (close up and stage). It is difficult, but Kevin takes you step by step and leaves nothing out. Basic Card and Coin Sleights - Brad Burt series Brad is the best teacher of effects around. He has beginners' tapes on cards, coins, flourishes and sponge balls. They are self-produced so they are more reasonably priced than Tannen tapes. Brad "guarantees" you can learn the stuff from the tapes. I don't know if that means refunding the price of the tape if you can't, but it seems worth a try. For more info, call (619) 571-4749, Fax: (619) 571-7943. From Jay Malone (malone@crash.cts.com) I know Brad and I have four of his videos (both coin videos, the sponge and the chop cup). Brad has been teaching many years and was, until he opened his shop, an active performer. He studies each effect that he sells and I feel that his "rating system" is fair. I've never been disapointed in my dealings with him. Basic Card Slights - Bill Tarr 90min tape packed with, as Bill Tarr says, "everything you need to know to be a dynamite card magician." The video has fairly poor production quality, and the backdrop is quite confusing. This aside, the instruction is excellent; Bill Tarr is a very good teacher. The topics include: The Slip Shuffle, Jog Shuffle, Hindu Shuffle, Slip Cut, False Triple Cut, Double Cut Classic Pass, Invisible Pass, Say When Pass, Classic Force, Riffle Force, Top- Palm, Double Lift, Top Change, Glide, Buckle, Elmsley Count, Card Weaving, and Key Cards. It includes good bits of card business and a few good card tricks. Recommend to any beginning magician as a good way to start with almost all basic card slights. Also pretty good for those more experienced that need to work on old skills. Brad Burt Video Tapes - Brad Burt series Are excellent for instructional purposes. They are not fancy studio productions but are easy to follow. One includes the Zarrow shuffle and appears excellent. The tapes are advertised in Genii from Brad Burt's Magic Shop in San Diego. Card Manipulation and Flourishes "Card Flourishes" - Lou Lancaster "The Major Card Flourishes" - Brad Burt "Fedko - Card Illusions" - John Fedko "Card and Ball Manipulation" - Peki "Steven's Vol 3" - Shimada Chop Cup, The - Brad Burt Everything to do the Chop cup, complete with the double large load endings standing up and surrounded. Eugene Goes Bizarre - Eugene Burger - STEVEN'S VOL 4" I'm very impressed with Burger's Videos. The number of tricks is pretty low but the production values are the highest I've seen in any of the 8 videos I own. I do a modified version of his "Retribution" (aka the burned card) and just left people with jaws on the floor. His Gypsy thread routine in "..Bizzare" is REALLY nice. I have several of his books and attended a small seminar that he gave in St. Paul last year. A thoroughly enjoyable person, he really puts a lot of work into his routines, books and videos. Gambling Protection Series - Steve Forte Mail order from RGE - 414 Santa Clara Av; Oakland, CA 94610 Phone: (510)465-6452; Fax:(510)652-4330 Mail: RGE is a publisher and distributor of gambling related literature, software and videos. (Visa and MC only for phone orders) Tape #1: EXCELLENT examples of the pass. These videos are NOT DESIGNED FOR MAGICIANS OR THE GENERAL PUBLIC. They target pro gamblers and expose gambling sleights from many angles and in slow motion, etc. Forte's execution of the two handed pass is flawless. Steve makes a living doing "cheating at gambling" demos, writing, etc. HE USED TO BE A FULL TIME CASINO DEALER. He also discusses stacking decks, etc. A great video. Greatest Hits - Randy Wakeman C&S Enterprises - 1116 Brookview - Brentwood, TN USA 37027 90 minutes. 13 effects all taught. All Card routines. Great quality, post production editing by pro magician (Jim Suprise). Three good routines are Overclock, Card under glass, and Spectator on stage. I have included Spectator on stage in my own performance it is a great ace cutting effect. Harry Loryane Linking Ring "Fine Selections, fine quality, fine teaching tape" David Harkey Lecture - David Harkey Top notch! His routines are simple, visual, and strong. It requires some good misdirection, but its not overly finger flinging. Here are some of the routines he performed: 1- He takes out a clean purse filled with black balloons. He blows one up and pulls off the round part. It becomes a billiard ball. 2- He took a glass marble (it's like, man, a new age crystal, you know) and softened it with a lighter. He then held it to his lips and blew into it. It expanded from his mouth like a balloon and you realize it's a test tube. He fills the tube with sugar from a packet, and then turns the tube into an hour glass - filled with sugar. He uses this hour glass to turn time back to the beginning, where the tube becomes a marble and the sugar is back in the unopened packet. (PERFORMANCE ONLY) 3- "No Return" - A safety pin is placed in a business card, and the hole is dragged around. (steel pin = $12) 4- A bill and pencil are borrowed. the pencil penetrates the middle of the bill, which remains untorn. 5- Four coins are visibly produced and appear at the ends of his fingers as he touched the table. 6- A ring penetrates his ring finger visibly. A spectator can place her hand on his and FEEL the ring travel up and thru his finger. 7- 4 coins travel into a glass - You can visibly see the coins arrive in the glass. Most (all) of the material is in his book. His lecture consists of 10 items. His book has 60 items. All of the material is similar in style/strength. He is very innovative. His routines have been used to win awards. He spent "10 years of his life" working on this book and it shows. He is a nice guy and quite funny. He is easy to talk to and not egotistical. He has a knack of ribbing people in the audience w/out insulting them. This is a rare talent. Strongly recommend the lecture and the book. Illusion Video, The A cheaply made, cheaply bought video teaching you how to make and perform some standard stage illusions. Included are producing an assistant, a dove production and vanish, various producing tubes and boxes, and the flying carpet levitation (you could use an audience member for this one without tipping the method). Impossibilia - The John Bannon Video. It demonstrates and explains 13 tricks, and it runs 90 minutes. It's excellent. Linking Rings - Here is a partial list of tapes with instructions on the linking rings: 1) Fedko - John Fedko has a series of 6 tapes numbered 1 thru 6. One of the tapes has linking rings as well as other platform effects. I believe the linking rings are on the "Classic Magic" volume. 2) Marc DeSousa - "Prize Winning Magic" 3) Richard Ross - Stevens' "Greater Magic" series The most beautiful version of rings I have ever seen. I watched it many times and was always impressed. He's great. Negotiating Higher Performance Fees audio tape - Michael Ammar Recommended regarding fees earned by magicians. On the Pass - Richard Kaufman I just bought the video "On the Pass" by Richard Kaufman last weekend. It is a good presentation of the classic pass, riffle pass and Herrmann pass along with several variations and tricks based on them. He first demonstrates the pass as the spectator would see it. Then carefully shows finger positions and moves very slowly. This is shown from the performer's point of view. Then he speeds things up. Awesome! My first time through the tape, I just sat there with my mouth hanging open. Do I ever have a lot of practicing to do. One comment he makes near the end of the 40 minute video is, "Practice the classic pass 100 times a day for a year and you'll really have something special." Pat Page's Spongeball Magic (1991, T.A.T) From: Stephen "PH" Buxton (mei141@cch.cov.ac.uk) This video is a must for all beginners in spongeball magic. He covers four basic vanishes, which are performed cleanly. He shows you his professional sponge ball routine, and gives a variety of other methods of bringing a surprise climax to any routine. Eg sponge to silk, colour changing balls, sponge to coin, etc. Different methods of productions are also shown, like split, and ball from mouth. He also shows his variation of the Benson rice bowl trick (from Classic Secrets Of Magic, B. Elliot), and a few ideas for chop cup routines, including a chop Top Hat. As well as these, he gives a number of tips about spongeball magic that he has picked up over the years. All in all, an excellent video for the beginner, but with bits of interest for those who are more advanced in the art. Penn and Teller - 1: Cruel Tricks for Dear Friends, The video version of their book of the same name. The Tricks are different than those in the book. You actually use portions of the video to play the pranks. Hilarious. 2: Penn and Teller Go Public: A 30 minute video which I believe was originally a PBS special. They do some of their classic bits like the handstab and Teller's Straight-jacket escape. A mini-concert if you will. 3: Penn and Teller Get Killed: An actual movie about Penn and Teller. Penn and Teller guest star on a talk show. Penn mentions how exciting he thinks life would be if someone were trying to kill him. You guessed it. Someone takes him seriously!! Some good magic and lots of humor. Restaurant Magic Business - Charles Green Tape that is VERY helpful for the restaurant performer. Routine Closeup - John Mendoza's C&S Enterprises - 1116 Brookview - Brentwood, TN USA 37027 1 hr 40 min tape. Mendoza performs 10 effects and teaches 6 of them. Great quality, post production editing by pro magician (Jim Suprise). Particularly well explained are Mendoza's Cups and Balls and Dice Stacking. The Dice stacking are done in slow motion with a clear glass. Phil Willmarth in Linking Ring said, ".. it is far and away the finest instructional video I have ever seen" Simply Magic - Bill Thompson - from The House of Secrets, 12 Caunce Street, Blackpool tel 0253 20902 Thumb Tips - Patrick Page - from the Trik-A-Tape Company, 45-47 Clerkenwell Road, London, EC1M 5RS tel 71 253 9693 Having watched perhaps a dozen instructional VHS tapes on magic, this one has to be my favorite. It gives an incredible amount of detail for the endless variety of tricks you can do using a thumb tip. I see beginners frequently posting inquiries about how to get started in magic. Buying a copy of this tape is my advice. Topit Secrets - Patrick Page - from the Trik-A-Tape Company, 45-47 Clerkenwell Road, London, EC1M 5RS tel 71 253 9693 Zarrow Shuffle, The - Brad Burt This man has to be one of the best teachers I've ever seen. Here, he teaches both the Zarrow and Faro shuffles as well as tricks. The Zarrow is the best looking table false shuffle I've ever seen. Unless you are specifically looking for it, you can't tell the difference between a Zarrow shuffle and a tabled riffle shuffle - even then you might not do it. \\ // \\// /00\ \></ __/__\__ <________> | | | | \____/ -- Mike Kamlet mike@vpnet.chi.il.us Archive-name: magic-faq/part4 Last-modified: Jan. 27, 1994 Frequently asked questions in alt.magic/part4 (of 4) Last modified: Jan. 27, 1994 Please send suggested corrections and additions to: mike@vpnet.chi.il.us Topics: Part 4 VII. LIST OF DEALERS ------------------------------------------------------------------------- VII. LIST OF DEALERS The following list of magic dealers is compiled from contributions from the following people: barnett@grymoire.crd.ge.com (Bruce Barnett) batten@kodak.kodak.com (James x42773/RDCS/5-15-KO) blake@cs.buffalo.edu (Brian C. Blake) drbill@cbnewsg.cb.att.com (william.h.davies) fmah@mta.ca (Frank) georgec@eng.umd.edu (George B. Clark) jillm@netcom.com (Jill Marci) jl3a+@andrew.cmu.edu (James A. Lane) jti01@duts.ccc.amdahl.com (Jeff Isozaki) nielsen@crd.ge.com (Paul Nielsen) presto@bach.udel.edu (Jason Y Nocks) rja@batcomfs.Eng.Sun.COM (Robert Allen) scream@brahms.udel.edu st922964@pip.cc.brandeis.edu zerucha@shell.portal.com (Thomas E Zerucha) ASWAYE@HERMES.ACS.RYERSON.CA (Adam Swaye) bryson@furman.edu (Rhett Bryson) Jerry Blackerby <exujbl@exu.ericsson.se> mei141@cch.cov.ac.uk (Stephen "PH" Buxton) gjans@diac.nfe.be (Geert Janssen) Comments, appearing in parens after the dealer's name, represent the opinion of the contributor, though in some cases they have been edited for brevity. Abbotts Magic Company (Catalog is pretty good. Definitely of the thick variety. (about 500 large pages) It's got a heck of a lot of stuff in just about every area. The pricing seems fair to good, but probably not excellent in terms of good deals.) Colon, MI 49040 (616) 432-3235 (800) 92MAGIC Al's Magic Shop 1012 Vermont Ave. NW Washington, DC 20005 (800) ALS-MAGIC Aladdin Books (An independent Bookstore Featuring an Eclectic Selection of New and Antiquarian Books" has a very large selection of new, used and rare magic books and lecture notes. The owner is very knowledgeable about magic.) 122 West Commonweath Fullerton, CA 92632 (714) 738-6115 Amer. Magic Co. 3261 Trinity Road Harrisburg, PA 17109 Axtell 230 Glencrest Circle - R Ventura, CA 93003 (805) 642-7282 Balloon Box (Balloons, & related books) St. James Park 2416 Ravendale Court Kissimmee, FL 34758 (407) 933-8888 Barry's Magic Shop (The magicians who work at Barry's Magic Shop will teach a customer how to use anything they buy.) Wheaton, MD Bill Brewe 1685 Harrison Ave. Fairmont (Cincinnati), OH 45214 251-4218 His is a neat old shop with stage and a neat display. It's worth a stop for anyone stopping in Cincy. It is close to downtown. Call for directions and hours, since Bill travels to many conventions and closes the shop during these trips. Bill Tarr Dept 21, Box 700 East Hampton, NY 11937 Brad Burt's 4688 Convoy St Suite 109 San Diego, CA 92111 (619) 571-4749 (inquiries) ORDERS: (800) 748-5759 Browser's Den of Magic, The 875 Eglinton Avenue West, Unit 13 Toronto, Ontario, Canada M6C 3Z9 (416) 783-7022 C & C Magic and Special Effects Company Inc. P.O. Box 331 Littleton, MA 01460-0331 or 5 Elm Court Maynard, MA 01754-1101 (508) 897-7599 (800) MAGIC-04 Camirand Academy of Magic Dept. 300 Succ A P.O. Box 269 Longueuil QC J4H 3XC CANADA (514) 670-6026 Cards by Martin (High quality gimmicked cards/decks custom made) 44533 N. Date Lancaster, CA 93534 Carrandi (Old books, apparatus, magazines, posters, catalogs, puzzles, etc.) (The latest catalog is 72 pages long and goes for $7.) 122 Monroe Avenue Belle Mead, NJ 08502 (908) 874-0630 FAX: (908) 874-4892 Celestial Sorcery Inc. (Operated by Jay Scott Berry) 11333 Moorpark Suite 1000 Studio City, CA 91602 Cliff Lount's Bradford Magic Studio 12 Nab wood Crescent SHIPLEY W. Yorks BD18 4HX UK They used to run a studio, but not anymore. They are now mail order, although they do sell at most conventions. They sell some nice tricks that are easy to perform and are well priced. Nearly all their items are their own design. Collector's Workshop Misty Morn Farm Rte 1 Box 113A Middleburg, VA 22117 (703) 687-6476 1-800-MAGICCW (orders) Fax (703) 687-6122 (Most all of their stuff is very expensive, catalog is $5.00. For folks who don't know, CW is one of the few shops to take a less draconian stance on returns. Ever since a shop refused to accept a strait-jacket after the T-bar tore out the first time I tried it on, despite a history of business with them and full knowledge of the methods before I got the jacket, I've started to appreciate CW's policy more and more.) Misty Morn Farm, Rt#1, Box 113A Middleburg, VA 22117 (703) 687-6476 (inquiries) ORDERS: (800) MAGICCW FAX: (703) 687-6122 Dallas & Co. 101 E. University Champaign, IL 61820 (217) 351-5974 (217) 351-9255 (fax) (owned by Andy Dallas who is primarily and escape artist. SAM #120 meets at the shop thrid tues. of the month) Dan Garrett 4929 Salem Rd. Lithonia, GA 30038 Davenports, 7 Charing Cross Underground Shopping Arcade, London WC2N 4HZ Tel: 71 836 0408 Daytona Magic 136 S. Beach Street Daytona beach, FL 32114 (904) 252-6767 ORDERS: (800) 34-MAGIC FAX: (904) 252-9037 Douglas Tilford P.O. Box 650 Experiment, GA 30212-0650 (404) 227-7634 (inquiries) ORDERS: (800) 537-5381 Eagle Magic (Larry Kahlow) 708 Portland Ave Minneapolis, MN 55415 (612) 333-4702 El Duco's Magic (Catalog $5) Box 31052 200 49 Malmo Sweden Fleming Book Co, 728 Madison Ave, York, PA 17404 Flora & Company (Videos and Audio tapes. Excellent material on practical marketing, etc.) box 8263 Albuquerque, NM 87198 Flosso Hornmann Magic Co. 304 W 34th St. New York, NY 10001 Flying Apparatus Catalogue (Juggling, etc.) 2121 Staunton Court Palo Alto, CA 94306 (415) 424-0739 Four Jokers Magic Shop (Visa/Mastercard orders accepted) (There are larger stores, but its hard to beat these guys. If they know you are a magician and are interested in a trick they will let you in on the secret. After all, to be honest, if you are in the comunity (magic) you are bound to eventually find someone who has purchased the same thing and will eventually find out the inner workings. BUT, you might see something that just blows your socks off, go and buy it THEN find out it is beyond your abilities. At least this way, you have the chance to 'test drive' it to see if it is something you really want.) 45 Main Street - P.O. Box 38 Tonawanda, NY 14150 (716) 693-7930 E-mail contact: blake@cs.buffalo.edu (Brian C. Blake) Gician Novelties Pte Ltd Block 3015, Ubi Road 1, #04-224 Singapore 1440 Shop at: Unit #03-200, Magic Land Marina Square Singapore Great American Juggling & Fun Co., The (Call for a catalog. Their prices are discounted, and they ship quickly! They also have magic and balloon stuff. Most of the jugglers I know buy their props there.) P.O. Box 227 Pine Forge, PA 19548-0227 (800) 3-JUGGLE H and R Magic Books (Specializes in old books, catalog is $3) 3702 Cyril Dr. Humble, TX 77396-4302 (713) 454-7219 or (713) 488-4578 Hades Publ. Box 1414 Calgary, Alberta Canada, T2P 2L6 (403) 254-0160 FAX: (403) 254-0456 Hades Seattle Magic Sentre (A very wide selection, pay to get their catalog.) (Great selection, catalog is $12.00 Book catalog is $5.00. These guys are probably one of the more useful references on this list.) Box 2242, Seattle, WA 98111-2242 (206) 624-4287 Haines House of Cards (Retail, manufacture, and wholesale. Located near US Playing Card Co.) They have just about everything you'd need in Bicycle stock. 2514 Leslie Ave Norwood, OH 45212 (513) 531-6548 Hank Lee's Magic Factory (Catalog is thick, chock full of good deals, and does what no other magic catalog I've ever seen do - offers fun to read descriptions.) Mail Order Division P.O. Box 789 Medford, MA 02155 (617) 482 8749 FAX: (617) 395-2034 ORDERS: (800) 874-7400 Hermetic Press Box 20383 Seattle, WA 98102 Hollywood Magic, Inc. (They carry a decent selection of standard effects in their catalog, which is about $7.50) 6614 Hollywood Blvd. Hollywood, CA (213) 464-5610 House of Magic, The (Carries both old and new stuff, and specializes in antiques, imported, and limited edition stuff. The primary drawback with this place is that it's full of rubber doggy-do, inflatable women, rubber snakes, etc., and seeing into the over-stuffed counters is sometimes tough. You have to become sort of known face to get the most value out of this store. It does have the largest local book section.) 2025 Chestnut St. San Francisco, CA (415) 346-2218 International Magic, 89 Clerkenwell Road, London EC1 Tel: 71 405 7324 Jeff Busby (Many unique books, close-up props) 612 Cedar Street Wallace, ID 83873-2233 ORDERS: (800) 445-0918 (Carries mostly books, but also carrys some magic equipment. He uses a tremendous amount of hyperbola in his advertising, and makes it sound like he's the only guy who carrys the stuff that he carrys, which isn't true. But he does make unexcelled machined and spun copper, brass, and stainless steel cups for cups and balls (I'm not sure if he's doing this right now), and he also has some beautiful turned wood wands & cups.) John Brownback (He has tons of books, new and old for sale. He's really good to work with and you're sure to get a good deal!) Springfield, IL. (217) 522-8500 Johnson Precision Magic Products, Inc. (Well known manufacturer of coin magic) P.O. Box 734 Arcadia, CA 91066 Johnson Smith Co 4514 19th Court East P.O. Box 25500 Bradenton, FL 34206-5500 Kennedy 8 Winchester Irvine CA 92720 (714) 262-1164 Ken-Zo's Party Place Ken & Bernie Horsman 1025-29 S. Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21230 410-727-5811 Kevin James 9682 Katella Anaheim, CA 92804 (714) 520-4381 FAX: (714) 535-5237 Klamm Magic (They stock a wide range of books, close-up effects and even stage sized illusions.) 1412-L Appleton Independence, MO 64052 (816) 461-4595 KT Magic (Collectable magic & books. Prompt service, good prices, and good quality merchandise. Catalog is $4.00.) 3925 Richardson Rd. Ste #24 Independance, KY 41051 (606) 525-1605 L&L Publishing P.O. Box 100 Tahoma, CA 96142 (916) 525-5700 ORDERS: (800) 626-6572 FAX: (916) 525-7008 La Rocks's (Balloons + Clown Supplies) 2123 Central Avenue Charlotte, NC 28205 (704) 333-3434 FAX: (704) 536-4600 (10AM - 6PM) ORDERS: (800) 473-3425 Lee Jacobs Prod P.O. Box 362-L189 Pomeroy, OH 45769-0362 (614) 992-5208 old posters/books, repro posters.. Magic by Post (Matchrite - The Funny Business) (Misc. & Tenyo. Free catalogue. "Refunds on unsuitable items") 167 Winchester Road Bristol BS4 3NJ England Phone/Fax (0272) 774334 Magic Center 739 8th Ave. New York, NY 10036 Magic Collector's Bulletin George Daily's Magacana for Collectors 3778 Cayuga Lane York, PA 17402 (717) 757-3098 $4 for current issue Magic Dragon (214) 253-6224 2322 Rock Island Rd Irving, TX Magic Land (The most famous magic shop in Tokyo is Ton Onosaka's, "Magic Land". It's located near Kayaba-Cho subway station (Tozai-line or Hibiya-line). Near the Tokyo Station. The shop is very small and hard to find. Call for directions. Closed Mondays. Tu-Sat 10-18:00 (?)) Phone from Narita airport (outside of Tokyo city) : 03-3666-4749 Phone from inside of Tokyo city : 3666-4749 Magicland (operated by Howard Hale) (214) 350-0966 Forrest Lane & Marsh Dallas, TX Magic Masters 2224C Stone Mtn-Lithonia Rd. Lithonia, GA 30058 (404) 482-1100 Magic Methods P.O. Box 4105 L Greenville, SC 29608 Magic, INC (Large publisher of books. Catalog is $7.00) 5082 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago, IL 60625 (312) 334-2855 The Magic Shop Evan Katz 829J State St. Lemoyne, PA 17043 (near Harrisburgh) 717-737-7559 Mark Leveredge 29 Wresfords Close, Exeter, Devon EX4 5AY, England Tel: 0392 52000 Mark produces all his own effects with an emphasis on practical commercial close-up and childrens effects. The great thing is that everything he sells he uses... Bill Brewe's magic shop specializes in books, silks and illusions. His is a neat old shop with stage and a neat display. It's worth a stop for anyone stopping in Cincy. It is close to downtown, although with I-75 construction is not as accessible as it normally is. Call for directions and hours, since Bill travels to many conventions and closes the shop during these trips. His address: 1685 Harrison Ave. Fairmont (Cincinnati), OH 45214 251-4218 Martin Breese International (Close-up books, props, etc.) P.O. Box 842 Sheffield S2 5TB, England Phone: 0742 737441 (24 hour answering machine) FAX: 0742-726420 (24 hours) Maxilla & Mandible, LTD The Natural History and Science Emporium (Bones, specimens, skulls, etc. Catalog: $9.95) 451-5 Columbus Ave New York, NY 10024 (212) 724-6173 Meca Magic Bloomfield, NJ (201) 429-7597 Meir Yedid P.O. Box 55 Rego Park, NY 11374 (718) 592-6082 Metaempirical Magic P.O. Box 500-M Stockbridge, MA 01262 (413) 243-4573 Mike Rogers P.O. Box 461723 Escondido, CA 92046-1723 (619) 489-1303 More Than Magic Bob Lloyd 11 Davenport St Somerville, NJ 08876 (908) 218-0065 Morrissey Magic Ltd. (This is probably an economical choice for the Canadians of the group. What with the Canadian dollar sitting so low and everything.) 2882 Dufferin Street Toronto, Ontario M6B 3S6 (416) 782-1393 Murphy's Magic P.O. Box 7373 St. Louis, MO 63177-7373 Mystique Magic Mfg. P.O. Box 577 Rush Springs, OK 73082 (405) 476-2481 FAX: (405) 476-2692 Old Curiosity Shop 409 16th Street Watervliet, NY 12189 (217) 273-1374 O'Dowd Conjuring (Mike O'Dowd) 7313 Kohler Drive Barnhart, MO 63012-2013 (314) 464-1026 (tons of old books and apparatus, autographed pictures, just about anything) Old Town Magic Shop, The ($2 for list?) 5770 W. Bronson Highway Suite 220 Kissimmee, FL 32741 Olde Towne Magic Shop 424 S. Main St. St. Charles, MO 63301 (314) 947-9292 Olde World Magick (Catalog: $1, Props for the Bizarre Magician) P.O. Box 162 Oakville, CT 06779 OSSINSKY NOVELTIES & MAGIC 914 ROLLINS AVENUE ORMOND BEACH, FLORIDA 32176-7855 Phone: (904) 677-9050 FAX : (904) 676-2442 INTERNET:magician@america.com Owner: SETH JON OSSINSKY Palmer Magic, 23 Duane Number 6, Redwood City, CA 94062 (415) 365-3818 Paul Diamond's Magic Company (The place seems to have a HUGE selection of books, even things that are supposed to be out of print!) P.O. Box 11570 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33339 (305) 772-8067 ORDERS: (800) 330-2713 Perfect Magic 4781 Van Horne Ave. Suite 206 Montrea, Quebec, Canada H3W 1J1 (514)-738-4176 fax(514)738-9738 Toll Free 1-800-665-3754 Phila. Magic 141 N. 12th St. (219 Market St ?) Phila, PA ????? (214) 627-5128 PM Magic 12977 View Mesa St. Moorpark, CA 93021 (805) 529-8416 PM Productions 1701 Monroe St LaPorte, IN 46350 Positively Magic (214) 553-8320 8656 Skillman St. Dallas, TX Powerful Magic 1516 Purdue Ave #7 Los Angeles, CA 90025 Quality Props 11 Hartridge Walk Allesley Park Coventry CV5 9LF England tel: (0203) 672512 Makers of Stage illusions, Cabaret props and Childrens Magic. Also stock close up items, and Terry and Norma products. Due to high shipping costs they will only send items inside the UK. Queen of Hearts (214) 578-1969 E 15th & Ave K Plano, TX Rabbit In The Hat Ranch 1017 Crystal Bowl Circle Casselberry, Florida 32707-4536 (407) 695-3630 RITHR puts out a semi-monthly mailing (10 or 12 pages) listing some unusual magic that I seldom find elsewhere. Prices are discounted, and I've always received good service from them. Buying magic based on written descriptions can be tricky, but the mailings are fun to read and the prices are good. Radella 9222 159th St, Suite #346 Orland Park, IL 60462 Repro Magic, 46 Queenstown Road, London SW8 3RY Tel: 71 720 6257 Richard Kaufman Suite 183-a 8401 Colesville Rd Silver Spring, MD 20910 Robbins 70 Washington St 9th floor Brooklyn NY 11201 ($3 catalog) Ron Allesi 106 Main Street P.O. Box 244 Milford, OH 45150 (513) 248-8534 (513) 248-8634 FAX (Ron purchased Venture III early in 94 and is now the curator of Klosterman's collection.) Silques Etc. P.O. Box 272 Renssselaer, IN 47978-0272 (219) 866-4287 Sorceries Limited - (They carry about 50 effects, mostly handmade woodwork by C. Miller, at reasonable prices, but they also have a few unique publications, plus they periodically sell used magic.) P.O. Box 4169 Bethlehem, PA 18018 (215) 867-0711 Stanford Prod. P.O. Box 161 Stilwell, KS 66085 Stephen Tucker Tel: 0684 566485 Steven Dawsons Magic Touch (Steve Dawson owns and runs the place. Tends to carry new stuff only, not antiques or second hand. They also carry a few of their own manufactured tricks of various types. They have a newsletter which comes out every few months. He also is now in the mail order business, so he has a catalog available. Steve can get many more things than he stocks. What he stocks is a good selection of closeup stuff, including coins, plus standards like vanishing canes, cups & balls, etc. And some of the usual strangely painted boxes & tubes. Steve keeps a close eye on the trade, and can usually offer comments on new or old tricks.) 144 N. Milpitas Blvd. Milpitas,CA 95035 (408) 263-9404 Catalog $4 Stevens Magic Emporium - (Much good stuff. Pay $7.50 to get on their catalog list.) (Catalog about $7.50, they carry imported magic, and intermediate priced magic in general. They carry lots of finely made brass pieces too.) 3238 East Douglas Wichita, KS 67208 (316) 683-9582 or (316) 683-5861 FAX: (316) 68-MAGIC The Supreme Magic Company Supreme House Bideford Devon EX39 2AN United Kingdom Tel +44 (0)237 479266 Fax +44 (0)237 421440 (There was a 'rumor' that Supreme had stopped doing business, but this is incorrect. They did change hands 1/93, but are up running business as usual) Tannen's Magic, Inc (Large, impersonal) 6 W. 32nd 4th Floor New York City, NY 10001-3867 (212) 239-8383 Fax: (212) 643-0199 ORDERS: (800) 72MAGIC Hardcover catalog (200+ pages) $19 Tony's Trick and Joke Shop 532 Broughton Stret Victoria, British Columbia Canada, V8W 1C6 Tel.(604) 385-6807 Fax (604) 385-5543 Top Hat, The c\o Allan Adcock 2232 W. Richwoods Blvd. Peoria, IL 61614 Tosi's Magic Manufacturing (Little known manufacturer of coin magic) 4042 Cypress Landing Winter Haven, FL 33884 (813) 324-7122 Twin Cities Magic and Costume 241 West Seventh St. St. Paul, MN (612) 227-7888 A large, excellent shop with free parking (a real plus in downtown St. Paul) and a stage on premises. It has a good selection of standard effects, books, and tapes, plus some original effects. Prices are average for magic shops. You'll get good, friendly service from the owners -- Fred Baisch, a professional magician, and Jim Berg, enthusiastic amateur and business manager. There's also a superb collection of costumes, make-up, and stage props. Meeting place for the local IBM ring. Wheeler-Tanner Escapes (Escape artist equipment) P.O. Box 349 Great Falls, MT 59403 (406) 453-4961 Wheeler-Tanner Escapes (Mainly escape artist supplies. Catalog is $2, refundable with first order). 3024 E. 35th Spokane, WA 99223 (509) 448-8457. Zauber - Bartl Billhorner Brckenstr. 40 Mercedes-Haus 6. Etage D-20539 Hamburg Tel: 040-7898281 Fax: 040-7898655 =================================================== The following is a list of Dealers in the Netherlands and Belgium From: gjans@diac.nfe.be (Geert Janssen) Geert Janssen is the system operator of MAGIC!-BE BBS, a magic oriented bulletin board system, part of MAGIC!NET. A. VAN DE KRAATS ST. MAARTENSDREEF 42 3564 UTRECHT THE NETHERLANDS DE MARTINO'S ST. MAARTENSDREEF 192 3564 UTRECHT THE NETHERLANDS GOOCHELSTUDIO KALI KROMMENDIJK 5 - 7 3312 CD DORDRECHT THE NETHERLANDS Tel: +31-78-130408 Fax: +31-78-133133 H. KEYL GOUDBLOEMSTRAAT 15 8612 XI ZWOLLE THE NETHERLANDS J. KNIP BURMANLAAN 17 2241 JD WASSENAAR THE NETHERLANDS KLINGSOR MAGIC SHOP KARTHUIZERSTRAAT 12 1000 BRUXELLES BELGIUM Tel: +32-2-5131055 Fax: +32-2-2168071 MAGIC F/X EINDHOVENSEWEG 119 5552 AA VALKENSWAARD THE NETHERLANDS Tel: +31-4902-43810 Fax: +31-4902-46780 MAGIC SHOP VICTORIA HOF TEN BIERGESTRAAT 9 2390 WEELDE BELGIUM Tel: +32-14-659358 MEPHISTO HUIS H.CONSCIENCESTRAAT 20 8500 KORTRIJK BELGIUM Tel: +32-56-213053 Fax: +32-56-214259 PETER WILLIS KARTUIZERSVEST 55 B 2500 LIER BELGIUM Tel + Fax: +32-3-4880478 Tel: +32-3-4881236 Open: Appointments only Also jugglersmaterial RAIMONI MAGIC CENTER VAN ARTEVELDESTRAAT 45 1000 BRUSSEL BELGIUM Tel: +32-2-5112407 ook op zaterdag van 9 tot 19 uur. ROCA MAGICS KORTRIJKSESTRAAT 88 8520 KUURNE BELGIUM SELECT MAGIC CV SLACHTHUISSTRAAT 21 8500 KORTRIJK BELGIE Tel: +32-56-217315 Fax: +32-56-258813 VAT registration number: B-431.757.292 Mo/We/Th/Fr: 09.00-12.00 / 14.00-18.00 Sa : 10.00-12.00 / 14.00-17.00 Tu : Closed Retail, Wholesale, Fabrication, import, export. Free quarterly newsletter "Select-O-Gram". \\ // \\// /00\ \></ __/__\__ <________> | | | | \____/ -- Mike Kamlet mike@vpnet.chi.il.us