Carpenter's Conceptions by Jack Carpenter and Jamie Masterson

Effect

Carpenter's Conceptions is a book filled with original card magic routines and sleights. The effects range from deceptive card controls to visually engaging routines like Jazz Aces and No Palm Queens to Pocket. Some tricks involve coins, rope, and even fire, providing variety for performers. The material is designed to create strong moments of surprise, often leading the audience in one direction before revealing an unexpected outcome.

Full Details

The book is a 150-page hardback, measuring 8.5 x 11 inches. It contains 35 submissions, mostly card tricks, along with seven detailed sleights. Some notable sleights include the Impossible Switch, 4552 Control, JC Hustle, and Scissor Shift. The book also teaches methods for stacking poker hands.

Highlights from the routines include:

• Jazz Aces – A classic routine with a Carpenter twist.
• No Palm Queens to Pocket – A deceptive and visually engaging effect.
• Card Shock School – An assembly routine with multiple kickers.
• New York Minute – A short-change bill routine.
• One and Done – A full-deck routine that returns to new deck order.
• J&J Not Routine – A five-minute rope routine.
• Deja Vu – An in-the-hands Triumph effect.

The book has an old-school feel, with black-and-white photographs and detailed descriptions of effects, setups, and methods.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This book is best suited for serious card magicians who appreciate technically demanding material. Those familiar with Jack Carpenter’s previous works, such as Modus Operandi and The Expert's Portfolio, will find this particularly valuable. The routines are road-tested, meaning they have been refined over 15 years of performance.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The material in Carpenter's Conceptions leans toward intermediate to advanced difficulty. Many routines require strong sleight-of-hand skills, particularly in card magic. However, the book provides detailed instructions, making it accessible to dedicated learners.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy describes the book as a significant release, praising Carpenter’s ability to mislead audiences subtly. He states, "Jack will completely blow you away. He’ll take his audience down one path and then, right at the end, the trick goes in a completely different direction."

He also highlights the book’s practicality, noting that all material has been tested in real performances. "There’s no tricks in here that are just speculation. Everything has been road-tested by Jack for the last 15 years."

For magicians looking for original, high-quality card magic, Carpenter's Conceptions is a strong choice.