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Celebrity Presage by Bret Berry and Mike Mahoney

Created by: Bret Berry, Mike Mahoney

Celebrity Presage is a captivating book test trick where a spectator freely chooses a page number from a celebrity-themed book, and the magician reveals a perfectly matched prediction. This close-up mentalism effect leverages the Perfect Page Numbering System (PPNS) and Svengali principles to ensure seamless page forces, making the trick feel incredibly fair and impossible to decipher. The book, designed like a quirky celebrity trivia guide, adds a layer of organic justification for its presence. The trick also includes a 'V' gimmick for additional predictions and integrates WikiTest words for expanded versatility. Ideal for both close-up and stage performances, Celebrity Presage delivers strong reactions and offers multiple routines, including the 'Mother of All Book Tests' for word-based revelations. The package includes a detailed PDF, instructional video, and access to an exclusive Facebook group for ongoing support and ideas.

Key features

  • Uses the Perfect Page Numbering System (PPNS) for seamless page forces

  • Includes a 'V' gimmick for additional predictions

  • Integrates WikiTest words for expanded versatility

  • Works for both close-up and stage performances

  • Comes with detailed PDF and video instructions

  • Access to a secret Facebook group for community support

Pros

  • Highly adaptable with multiple routines

  • Powerful audience impact

  • Built to last with durable materials

  • Detailed instructions and community support

  • Tested successfully in live performances

Cons

  • Some routines require memorization (cribs provided)

  • Premium pricing (~£100/$115)

Effect

The audience sees a book filled with celebrity names and funny stories. A spectator freely chooses any page number or flips through the book to land on a random page. The magician reveals that the celebrity on that exact page was predicted in advance. The book appears completely normal, with no signs of trickery.

Full details

Celebrity Presage is a book test that uses a combination of the Svengali principle and the Perfect Page Numbering System (PPNS). This allows the magician to control which page the spectator lands on while making the selection seem entirely free. The book resembles a typical celebrity gossip book, making it relatable and engaging.

The trick includes multiple methods for revealing predictions, such as forcing a specific page or letting the spectator name any page number. It also incorporates the "Mother of All Book Tests" principle, where a spectator can choose a long word from their selected page, and the magician reveals it through mind-reading.

Additional features include a "V" gimmick for extra predictions, a bookmark for clean reveals, and compatibility with WikiTest words for expanded possibilities. The book is durable and designed for repeated use in live performances.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who perform mentalism or book tests regularly. It works well in close-up, parlour, and stage settings. Those who enjoy interactive routines with strong audience participation will find it especially effective.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The mechanics are straightforward, especially for those familiar with the Svengali principle. The PPNS makes page forces seamless, reducing the need for complex sleight of hand. Some routines require memorization, but cribs are provided for assistance.

Steve Faulkner notes, "Within two minutes of doing this, I felt confident because it's really easy. It's not going to be hard."

What magicians say

Steve Faulkner praises the trick's versatility and impact: "There's something about the freedom of handling—them choosing a page number and you giving them a chance to swap. It feels very free and powerful." He also highlights the strong audience reactions in real performances.

The detailed instructions, including a PDF and video, make learning the trick efficient. The included Facebook group offers additional ideas and refinements from other magicians.

Overall, Celebrity Presage is described as a well-built, adaptable trick with strong audience appeal.

What people are saying about Celebrity Presage

Steve Faulkner (RealMagicReview) says...

The real beauty of this is the freedom of handling—they choose a page number, and you show it to them. It's dead strong and feels very free. [...] The mother of all book tests thing gets a stunning reaction—it's brilliant.

Review videos