On Magic Book

I remember being in a lecture in one of Hong Kong’s Magic Associations; the lecture was called Expert at the Card Table. Published in 1902, the book is still the most popular and widely used manual for magicians. The book is amazing; however, the lecture notes provided by the lecturer were just as great. This made me realize the importance of magician’s notes; the notes from other magicians are just as important for one’s individual development. Here are some steps below to help you guys with your development of magic tricks!

Step 1: Get Familiar

People often purchase a magic book in order to learn a certain move or effect, and that is actually the best thing you can do. This is because you want to be familiar with the creator’s perspective and thought process, which is always in the introduction and a certain parts in the book. In turn, being familiar with the book’s contents and the creator’s perspective, allow you to have a better understanding of the reasons why certain effects were chosen and executed. Thus, this allows you to execute them in the most appropriate manner and environment.

Step 2: Learning it!

Learning the sleight of hand could be different for everyone; and would always need a solid understanding of the effects. It is effective to reread the description several times, then forming a mental image of how it is executed, while considering the audiences perspective. By doing so, you’ll know what to anticipate from the different perspectives without risking a chance of getting lost. "To attain the highest degree of excellence at card manipulation much study and practice are necessary; but proficiency in the art quite sufficient for the purpose of entertainment or amusement may be acquired with very little effort if a thorough understanding is first obtained to the best and simplest methods of accomplishing the sleights" (Erdanse, The Expert at the Card Table). In other words, avoid practicing the wrong things! Sometimes, illustrations will help you better imagine and prepare when you are doing it. But, it is important not to focus heavily on the illustrations and neglected the text. If you’re still lost, look it up on the Internet or sensei YouTube.

Step 3: Remember it

Often, magicians go through a book in a hurry and forget some essential effects or sleights soon after. Keep a notebook and some post-in notes to help you remember the effect. You can find quick references if you have the need to reread it. Also, practice, practice and practice! Until you can do it with your eyes closed!

As most magicians learn things from videos and through the Internet, there are the forgotten techniques hidden somewhere in the books. It is always great to bring these uncommon techniques to the table. At times, you might be able to “wow” other magicians by spending the time to study through magic books. Good luck and I hope this guide will help you with the process!