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Baby Book Test by Chris Mallon and Strange Stage

Created by: Chris Mallon, Strange Stage

The Baby Book Test, as part of the *Eerie* magic effect, is a multi-layered book test that combines horror lore with psychological intrigue. It revolves around a fictional 1950s comic book, *Eerie*, which is said to have influenced children through subliminal messages revealed by 'Super-Specs' glasses. The trick includes drawing duplication, a Baby Book Test variation, the Long Word Principle, and crossword mind reading, offering a unique blend of history, storytelling, and clever methodology. Perfect for horror-themed or psychological magic performances, it provides multiple outs for flexibility in presentations.

Key features

  • Multi-layered book test with several powerful methods

  • Includes drawing duplication, Baby Book Test variation, Long Word Principle, and crossword mind reading

  • Framed around a fictional 1950s comic book with a chilling backstory

  • Ideal for horror-themed or psychological magic performances

  • Offers multiple outs for flexibility in presentations

  • Combines history, storytelling, and clever methodology

Pros

  • Unique blend of horror lore and psychological intrigue

  • Multiple methods for varied performances

  • Strong audience impact with narrative-driven magic

  • No memory work required for some methods

  • Repeatable results with different outcomes

Cons

  • May not suit performers who avoid dark or horror themes

  • Requires understanding of multiple methods for full effect

Effect

The Baby Book Test is a variation of the classic book test effect, where a spectator selects a word or item from a book, and the magician reveals it through apparent mind reading or supernatural influence. In this version, the effect is framed within a horror-themed narrative, using vintage monster-themed ads and psychological hooks to create an eerie atmosphere. The performer can reveal a spectator's chosen item or word with multiple methods, making the effect adaptable and repeatable.

Full Details

The Baby Book Test is part of a larger routine called Eerie, which uses a fictional 1950s comic book as its central prop. The comic includes subliminal messages and vintage ads, allowing for different phases of the performance. Key elements include:

  • Drawing Duplication: A spectator selects a word from the comic, and another spectator, using "Super-Specs" (special glasses), appears to read their mind and draw or name the thought.
  • Baby Book Test Variation: Spectators circle items in vintage monster-themed ads, and the performer reveals their choice as if influenced by supernatural forces.
  • Long Word Principle: A hidden crib on the back cover eliminates memory work, and an additional method ensures the first letter is always correct.
  • Crossword Mind Reading: Spectators pick a monster from a crossword puzzle, and the performer instantly reveals their selection.

The routine is designed for horror-themed or psychological magic, with a strong narrative element.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who:

  • Enjoy storytelling and psychological magic.
  • Perform in themed settings, such as horror or retro-themed shows.
  • Want a book test with multiple methods for flexibility.
  • Appreciate layered routines with strong audience impact.

Difficulty

The Baby Book Test is designed to be accessible while offering depth for experienced performers. The methods are straightforward, with some phases requiring minimal sleight of hand. The narrative elements add complexity in presentation rather than technique, making it suitable for intermediate magicians.

What Magicians Say

AlakazamMagicUK describes Eerie as a "multi-layered book test with several powerful methods," praising its combination of history, storytelling, and clever methodology. They highlight the flexibility of the routine, noting that it includes "multiple outs for different presentations." The horror-themed framing is emphasized as a strong point, making it ideal for performers who enjoy "dark, narrative-driven magic."

The routine is recommended for those interested in "occult-themed mentalism" or "retro horror aesthetics," with the layered approach ensuring strong audience reactions.

What people are saying about Baby Book Test

AlakazamMagicUK says...

The comic serves as a multi-layered book test with several powerful methods. [...] Combines history, storytelling, and clever methodology into a unique book test.

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