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King Back by John Allen

Created by: John Allen

King Back is a classic close-up card trick where a selected card mysteriously returns to the top of the deck after being lost in the pack. The effect is clean, visual, and perfect for walk-around or table-hopping performances. It's a worker's trick, designed for real-world conditions with minimal setup and maximum impact.

Key features

  • No gimmicks or special decks required

  • Works with any borrowed deck

  • Easy to learn but highly effective

  • Perfect for close-up or parlour settings

Pros

  • Strong visual impact

  • Versatile for various performance settings

  • Reliable method that's been tested by professionals

Cons

  • May require some practice to perfect the handling

  • Not suitable for large stage performances

Effect

King Back is a card trick where a selected card vanishes from the deck and reappears in an impossible location. The magician shows the deck, and a spectator freely chooses a card. After the card is lost in the deck, the magician reveals that the card has somehow returned to the top—or even more surprisingly, appears in a completely unexpected place, defying logic.

Full Details

King Back is an early release by John Allen, known for his practical and worker-friendly magic. The trick is designed to be performed in real-world conditions, making it suitable for close-up or stand-up performances. It involves clever sleight-of-hand and a well-structured routine that ensures a strong magical moment. The method is deceptive, relying on natural movements rather than complex gimmicks.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who want a reliable, easy-to-perform card effect with a strong impact. It works well for both beginners and experienced performers, as the method is straightforward but can be enhanced with additional flourishes for those who want to add more style.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

King Back is not overly difficult, making it accessible to magicians with basic card-handling skills. The trick relies more on timing and presentation than advanced sleights, so even those new to card magic can learn it quickly. More experienced performers can refine the handling to make it even smoother.

What Magicians Say

Steve Faulkner from RealMagicReview mentions King Back as one of John Allen's standout releases, calling it "brilliant." He highlights John Allen's reputation for creating workable, practical magic, and King Back fits that description perfectly. The trick is praised for its deceptive method and strong audience reaction.

If you're looking for a card trick that is easy to learn but leaves a lasting impression, King Back is a solid choice. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it a favorite among magicians who value real-world performance over flashy gimmicks.

What people are saying about King Back

RealMagicReview says...

King Back is brilliant—one of John's early releases that still holds up as a solid, workable trick for any magician.

Review videos