Magic Tricks

Paul Harris Art of astonishment series is a collection of books he'd written in the 70's, 80's and early 90's that reshaped close up magic. Volume 2 is considered the weakest book in the art of astonishment series and it contains Immaculate connection performed by David Copperfield and twilight by Doug henning on national television specials so that should tell you something about the quality of magic you'll find in these books. Paul's magic is very attainable. Difficulty varies from trick to trick but the hardest stuff tends to be the flourishes, like the betz poker roll which is included in this book. I've been doing Paul's magic since I was 12 years old with a basic introduction to card magic behind me. The Immaculate connection is one of my all time favorite pieces of magic to watch and to perform. Don't overlook Osmosis another linking card effect like no other. Cellophane Surprise is something I've used often to great effect. Hiccup and The Altman maneuver which are two very powerful card transposition effects. Double Decker can knock people over. McGimmick, Fizzmaster are really powerful pieces of impromptu magic you can do with borrowed items while you're out to lunch with co-workers or at a barbecue. Give the Floating deck and How to pop a floating deck a try for someone. You might be surprised at how strong the effects are. Don't overlook flutter, it's a killer. PDQ#2 is a very easy coins across routine that looks great. england's penetration is a gem. These are just a few things I use often. Volume 1 is a masterpiece and volume 3 is close behind but there are more than a few heavy hitters in this volume as well. I bought a set back in 1997 and Bought a new set from penguin recently because these are books I want to have for the rest of my life.