Review by Daryl Maddox for Complete Illustrated Book of Close-up Magic, The by Walter B. Gibson

reviews Reviews ,
Review by Daryl Maddox for Complete Illustrated Book of Close-up Magic, The by Walter B. Gibson
Review by Daryl Maddox for Complete Illustrated Book of Close-up Magic, The by Walter B. Gibson
5 out of 5

One of the greatest close-up magic texts ever!

As one of the premiere authors on magic and magicians, Walter Gibson performed an invaluable service for the magic community by compiling this tome dedicated to sleight of hand and entertainment. This is a "must-have" book for those seriously invovled in the art and it will lead you expertly through the most useful techniques of close-up manipulation of cards, coins, balls, thimbles, etc. He has even included a section on Mental Magic as a form of close-up.

Gibson’s skill at leading one through clearly defined moves is augmented by critically angled photographs of the author’s hands in action. Included with all this are the tips and secrets to overcoming some of the serious difficulties entertainers often experiene when performing crucial sleights.

Though out of print for some time now, copies can still be found in a variety of book dealer websites. I have had a copy for 28 years and still use it to learn and review from. This will keep you busy for a long time.

Along with Bobo’s masterpiece on coins, Ganson’s manipulation series, and Garcia’s extensive writings, Gibson’s work will always rank among the most important teaching tools in Magic.

Click here for more information.

Review by Daryl Maddox for Amateur Magician's Handbook, The by Henry Hay

reviews Reviews ,
Review by Daryl Maddox for Amateur Magician's Handbook, The by Henry Hay
Review by Daryl Maddox for Amateur Magician's Handbook, The by Henry Hay
5 out of 5

An Invaluable Text

Henry Hay’s "The Amateur Magician’s Handbook" has been a treasured guide into the realm of magic for several decades now. I have had a copy in my library for forty years and still use it. This is an absolute must-have for anyone aspiring to be good at their magic. Henry Hay is the pen name of J. Barrows Mussey who was a master of sleight of hand, especially coins. Not only are "tricks" presented but the needed philosophy of the magic involved, guidelines for practicing, as well as presentation and routining. In addition to all this, it is very good reading and the first page will quickly ‘pull you in’.

Click here for more information.