Cracker Bucket by David Gerard and Jim Steinmeyer

Effect

The audience sees a menu with various food and drink items. A spectator chooses items by following the first letter of each category. They add the prices on a calculator. The magician reveals a prediction that matches the total bill amount. The prediction is written before any choices are made. The spectator confirms the match themselves. The routine can include tip amounts for a stronger finish.

Full details

Cracker Bucket is a prediction effect created by David Gerard and Jim Steinmeyer. It uses a specially designed menu. The menu ensures the spectator's choices always total a specific amount, such as $22. The magician writes this amount on a slip of paper before the selection process begins. The prediction remains in view and is not touched by the magician. The spectator uses a calculator to confirm the total.

The method is self-working. The menu design controls the outcome. An optional Himber Wallet is included. The wallet can hold two alternate predictions. These can be $25.30 for a 15 percent tip or $26.40 for a 20 percent tip. Marking the wallet helps the performer know which total is visible. The routine feels fair because the spectator makes all decisions and calculations.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is good for performers who work in parlors or restaurants. It is suitable for beginners. StevensMagicEmporium states it is "suitable for beginners." AlakazamMagicUK says it is "perfect for parlor settings." Magicians who want a quick-to-learn routine will find it useful. The hosts note that "routines [are] ready in minutes." It is also good for performers who want to add a professional prediction effect to their set.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Cracker Bucket is easy to learn. AlakazamMagicUK confirms it is "easy to learn and perform." The method does not require difficult sleight of hand. The routine is structured to be straightforward. StevensMagicEmporium suggests beginners start with the basic $22 prediction. Using the Himber Wallet adds a layer but is not required. Mark from Stevens Magic Emporium advises that the wallet "exponentially add[s] to the impact" but starting simple is best for new performers.

What magicians say

StevensMagicEmporium provides tutorial videos to help magicians learn the trick. He notes that the second video offers "a different angle" or "alternate handling" which can be a "valuable supplemental resource." He emphasizes the fairness of the routine, letting the participant make all choices.

AlakazamMagicUK praises the creators, calling David Gerard and Jim Steinmeyer "respected names in magic." They describe the trick as a "clever prediction effect" with "no misses." They highlight its professional build and flexibility, noting it includes "advanced options like incorporating a Himber wallet." They conclude it is a "must-have for performers looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing routine."

StevensMagicEmporium also explains the core method revolves around the "first letter" principle on the menu. He states the prediction is established early and left untouched, which "builds a strong moment of revelation." He recommends marking the wallet for easy orientation during a performance.