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Card Shock School by Jack Carpenter and Jamie Masterson

Created by: Jack Carpenter, Jamie Masterson

Card Shock School is a captivating card assembly effect with five different kickers, designed for close-up magic performances. The trick involves a series of surprising reveals where selected cards mysteriously assemble in impossible ways, culminating in multiple climaxes that leave the audience stunned. This is a technically demanding routine that showcases the magician's skill and creativity, making it ideal for serious card magicians who appreciate intricate and well-constructed card magic.

Key features

  • Assembly effect with five kickers

  • Technically demanding routine

  • Ideal for close-up magic

  • Road-tested material by Jack Carpenter

  • Part of the 'Carpenter's Conceptions' book

Pros

  • Multiple climaxes for maximum impact

  • Highly original and creative

  • Road-tested for reliability

  • Detailed instructions included in the book

Cons

  • Requires advanced card handling skills

  • May not be suitable for beginners

Effect

Card Shock School is an assembly effect with five different kickers. The magician performs a series of surprising and visually engaging moves that culminate in multiple unexpected reveals. The routine builds suspense and delivers repeated moments of astonishment, making it a strong choice for performers who want a layered, impactful card trick.

Full Details

The trick is part of Carpenter’s Conceptions, a book by Jack Carpenter and Jamie Masterson. The book contains 35 submissions, mostly card tricks, along with detailed instructions on sleights and methods. Card Shock School stands out as a structured routine with multiple phases, ensuring a dynamic performance. The book itself is a 150-page hardback with black-and-white photographs, maintaining an old-school instructional style.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for intermediate to advanced card magicians who enjoy technically demanding routines. It suits performers who appreciate Jack Carpenter’s signature style—subtle misdirection and well-constructed surprises. Those familiar with Carpenter’s previous works (Modus Operandi, The Expert’s Portfolio) will find this particularly rewarding.

Difficulty

The trick requires proficiency in card handling and an understanding of assembly effects. While not for beginners, the book provides detailed explanations of necessary sleights, including the "Impossible Switch" and "Scissor Shift." Mastery will take practice, but the payoff is a highly deceptive and engaging routine.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy highlights Card Shock School as a standout routine in Carpenter’s Conceptions, praising its multiple kickers and deceptive structure. He notes that Carpenter’s material is "road-tested," ensuring reliability in performance. The book’s old-school presentation style is also commended, appealing to magicians who value classic instructional methods.

For those seeking a challenging yet rewarding card routine with strong audience impact, Card Shock School is a compelling choice. The trick’s layered structure and multiple reveals make it a versatile addition to a magician’s repertoire.

What people are saying about Card Shock School

David (Magic Orthodoxy) says...

Card Shock School is an assembly effect with five different kickers, showcasing Jack Carpenter's signature slide of hand techniques. It's a deceptive and visually engaging routine that will blow your audience away.

Review videos