Magic Tricks

Ok, I got this to expand my selection of available book tests, largely because I perform annually for a couple of the same groups and don't want to re-perform the same test for the same group too soon. I also have Kranzo's Tru-Test magazine test, and my favorite by far is MOAB 2.0. In general, this test is good, given the right presentation. I like the fact that two books are provided, so the spectators can choose either -- or both -- with no equivocation. In my mind, it's not at the same level as something like MOAB 2.0, but it can provide a somewhat similar effect for most people's minds. The only real criticism I have is that while the books look good superficially, a closer inspection shows design and quality shortcomings. Since I have experience in editing, printing and binding books, maybe these will only occur to me, but the binding method for both my books has poor quality control -- the trimmed margins are extremely narrow and vary widely, especially in the larger book, and the cover of the smaller book is misplaced, offset so that part of the back cover wraps around onto the spine -- some of the words on the back almost run on to the spine as well. Finally, unlike a real book, there is NO copyright page, no contents, none of the expected pages that are at the front of ALL published books. While it's unlikely that anyone will notice this with proper routining and audience management, it would be nice to have the books able to withstand closer inspection without a hint of strangeness to anyone, and it would be easy to remedy these shortcomings in a future release. The MOAB book, by contrast, is completely convincing in this regard, and of comparativly higher quality. MOAB is still the gold standard, with a lot more features built in, and of course, a far higher price. But this new test will probably be effective, particularly if a spectator who's seen me use MOAB before asks for another book test. I'd give this 4 stars, except for the quality issues I noted above.