Semi-Automatic Card Tricks: Vol. 1 by Steve Beam

Originally published in 1993, this is the book that started it all. These are not your typical self-working card tricks. Clever principles & devious subtleties have supplanted sleight of hand. Unlike many self-working card tricks, these do not appear to be self-working to the audience. The latest technology has been used to eliminate superfluous dealing and counting. In addition to dozens of effects by the author, contributors include Michael Beam, Doug Canning, Tom Craven, Stewart James, Wayne Kyzer, Simon Lovell, Martini, Gary Plants, Steve Pressley, John Riggs, Scott Robinson, and Allan Slaight.

If you enjoy card magic, you will eventually read this book. The only question is whether you will read it before or after being fooled and entertained by a trick contained within.