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Jedi Book Test by Josh Zandman

Created by: Josh Zandman

The 'Jedi Book Test' by Josh Zandman is a mind-reading trick that uses a gimmicked book (HG Wells' 'The War of the Worlds') and an envelope to perform a series of word and page predictions, culminating in a dramatic reveal where a missing page matches the contents of the envelope. This trick is suitable for close-up, parlor, or stage performances and combines psychological subtleties with a clever physical prop. It includes four distinct routines: a book test using the Flashback Principle, a Pegasus Page routine, a tossed-out book test, and a bonus Star Wars book test. The trick is designed for versatility and impact, allowing for a full 20-minute act if desired.

Where to buy

Alice Book Test by Josh Zandman from Monster Magic
Monster MagicAlice Book Test by Josh Zandman£53.99
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Time Machine Book Test by Josh Zandman from Monster Magic
Monster MagicTime Machine Book Test by Josh Zandman£63.99
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Key features

  • Four distinct routines in one prop

  • No angle issues, but not meant for prolonged spectator scrutiny

  • Minimal setup required, with only the Pegasus routine needing a one-time 5-minute prep

  • Includes an hour-long tutorial by Michael O’Brien

  • Bonus method for use with un-gimmicked Star Wars books

Pros

  • Engaging performance with clear audience interaction

  • Strong climax and visual moments

  • Versatility with multiple effects in one prop

  • Eliminates the need for fishing or memorization

  • Suitable for various performance settings

Cons

  • Some parts may feel drawn out

  • Humor might not land for everyone

  • Requires thoughtful scripting and theatricality to avoid falling flat

  • At $100, it's an investment

Effect

The Jedi Book Test is a mentalism routine where a performer appears to read a spectator's mind using a book. The spectator freely selects words and pages from the book, and the magician predicts their choices with impossible accuracy. The climax involves a dramatic reveal, such as a missing page matching a previously sealed prediction. The effect creates a strong sense of mind-reading and leaves the audience questioning how such precise predictions are possible.

Full Details

The Jedi Book Test is a gimmicked book that allows performers to execute four distinct routines:

  • Book Test: Uses a modified Flashback Principle to instantly reveal a spectator's chosen word without fishing or memorization.
  • Pegasus Page Routine: A chosen page vanishes and reappears in an impossible location.
  • Tossed-Out Book Test: Works with multiple participants, making it suitable for larger groups.
  • Bonus Star Wars Book Test: Can be performed with un-gimmicked Star Wars novels for added flexibility.

    • The trick includes a one-hour tutorial by Michael O’Brien and requires minimal setup, with only the Pegasus routine needing a brief initial preparation. The book itself is not meant for prolonged examination after certain effects, but angle issues are minimal during performance.

    Who Should Consider the Trick

    The Jedi Book Test is ideal for mentalists and magicians who want a versatile, multi-phase routine. It works well in close-up, parlor, and stage settings. Performers who enjoy book tests or modular routines will find it especially useful. The trick requires some scripting and theatricality to maximize impact, making it better suited for those comfortable with presentation.

    Difficulty

    The routines are designed to be easy to perform, allowing the magician to focus on presentation rather than complex sleight of hand. The methods eliminate the need for fishing or memorization, streamlining the performance. However, the effects rely on strong scripting and audience engagement to avoid falling flat.

    What Magicians Say

    • Craig Petty (Magic TV): Praises the strong climax and audience interaction but notes that some parts may feel slow. He describes it as a "full-circle moment" with a clever physical reveal.
    • Matt and Craig (Magic TV): Highlight the trick's unique prediction method and engaging performance potential. They emphasize its effectiveness in live demonstrations.
    • Tyler Lunsford: Calls the Pegasus Page routine a standout visual moment and appreciates the multi-routine versatility. He acknowledges the $100 price tag but argues the value justifies the cost for performers who can invest in strong presentation.

    The Jedi Book Test is a well-regarded mentalism tool that combines classic principles with modern methods, making it a compelling choice for performers looking to expand their book test repertoire.

    What people are saying about Jedi Book Test

    magic-tv (Craig Petty) says...

    The routine builds to a climax where a missing page is revealed to match the contents of the envelope, creating a full-circle moment. The trick combines psychological subtleties with a clever physical reveal.

    magic-tv (Matt and Craig) says...

    The trick stands out for its unique way of predicting exactly what a spectator is looking at in a book. The hosts highlight its clever method and engaging performance potential.

    TylerLunsfordMagic says...

    Lunsford concludes that the Jedi Book Test is worth the price for performers seeking a modular, high-impact mentalism tool. Its adaptability for close-up, parlor, or stage makes it a compelling choice—if paired with strong presentation.

    Review videos