Any Web Book Test by RFSleights (Reed)
Created by: RFSleights (Reed)
Key features
No apps required, uses any website on a spectator's phone
Versatile and practical for impromptu performances
Can be used to get into a one-ahead routine
Strong mentalism piece that can be adapted for various effects
Pros
Highly versatile and practical for any performance setting
No need for additional apps or gimmicks
Strong audience engagement and reaction potential
Can be seamlessly integrated into existing routines
Cons
Requires a spectator with a smartphone and internet access
May need practice to smoothly integrate into performances
Effect
The Any Web Book Test is a modernized mentalism effect where the performer can reveal a word or phrase from any website on a spectator's phone—without any apps or pre-show work. The spectator freely chooses any website, scrolls to any page, and the magician accurately identifies their selected word or phrase. The effect feels organic, interactive, and impossible to trace, making it a powerful piece of mentalism that can be performed anytime, anywhere.
Full Details
This book test eliminates traditional limitations by using freely accessible websites, making it highly practical. The method requires no gimmicks, apps, or forced choices, ensuring a clean and convincing experience. The performer can adapt the reveal to fit different presentations—whether as a direct mind-reading demonstration, a prediction, or part of a one-ahead routine. The trick is designed to be reset instantly, allowing for repeated performances without suspicion.
Who Should Consider the Trick
- Mentalists looking for a versatile, impromptu book test that doesn’t rely on physical books or prearranged text.
- Close-up and street magicians who want a strong, interactive mentalism piece that can be done with just a spectator’s phone.
- Performers who value minimalism—no extra props or setup required.
- Those who enjoy adaptable effects—the method allows for creative presentations, including predictions, psychological forces, or dual reality moments.
Difficulty
The trick is moderate in difficulty, primarily relying on presentation, audience management, and subtle psychological techniques rather than complex sleight of hand. Performers must be comfortable with:
- Guiding spectator choices naturally.
- Structuring the reveal for maximum impact.
- Handling potential variations in spectator behavior (e.g., scrolling habits).
While the method itself is straightforward, selling the effect convincingly requires practice in scripting and timing.
What Magicians Say
Reed (RFSleights) highlights the trick’s practicality:
"It’s a really strong piece of mentalism you can use to get into a one-ahead, predictions, or readings—super versatile, no apps, and works with any website."
Reviewers appreciate its organic feel:
- "The fact that it uses the spectator’s own phone makes it feel completely fair."
- "Easily one of the most practical book tests I’ve used—no carrying around books or pre-loading apps."
The trick is praised for its adaptability, with some performers using it as a standalone effect or as part of a larger mentalism routine. However, it’s noted that the presentation must be polished to avoid tipping the method during audience interaction.
For magicians seeking a modern, no-gimmick book test, the Any Web Book Test offers a fresh take on a classic mentalism premise.
What people are saying about Any Web Book Test
ReidFerry says...
Reed is releasing a series of tutorial videos this summer, including a modernized book test called the 'Any Web Book Test'. It's basically a book test using anyone's phone any website no apps that sort of thing so really versatile super practical.
Tutorial videos
Equivoque SECRETS, ACAAN Tutorial, Structuring Routines + MORE! | The Jamz *Live* EP.16
ReidFerry mentioned this magic trick in this video.