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Magical Ways and Means by Al Baker, Jay Marshall, and Todd Carr

Created by: Al Baker, Jay Marshall, Todd Carr

The Secret Ways of Al Baker is a monumental 900+ page book that serves as a comprehensive collection of Al Baker's work, spanning over 50 years. It includes previously unpublished manuscripts, correspondence, and tricks from a versatile magician who excelled in various genres such as ventriloquism, children's shows, mentalism, and close-up card magic. This book is a treasure trove for magic enthusiasts, historians, and performers interested in the roots of modern magic, offering insights into Baker's innovative methods and philosophy.

Key features

  • Comprehensive collection of Al Baker's work over 50 years

  • Includes previously unpublished manuscripts and correspondence

  • Features testimonials from renowned magicians

  • Early proponent of the 'center theory' in mentalism

  • Pioneered the use of human hair as invisible thread

  • Meticulously organized with detailed table of contents and index

Pros

  • Offers a unique opportunity to learn from a pivotal figure in magic history

  • Provides a complete picture of Al Baker's approach and philosophy

  • Rich in historical value and content

  • Highly recommended for serious magic enthusiasts and historians

Cons

  • Significant price tag ($250)

  • May not be suitable for casual magic fans

Effect

"Magical Ways and Means" is a collection of Al Baker's magic tricks and ideas. The effects vary widely, from card magic and coin tricks to mentalism and stage illusions. Each trick is designed to be simple yet baffling, often blending psychology with sleight of hand. The book includes classic routines like the "Pack That Cuts Itself" and early uses of human hair as invisible thread.

Full details

The book is part of a larger compilation titled The Secret Ways of Al Baker, which spans over 900 pages. It includes Baker’s original works—Al Baker’s First Book, Al Baker’s Second Book, and Magical Ways and Means—along with unpublished manuscripts and individual tricks. The material covers card magic, coins, bills, silks, rope magic, and mentalism.

Baker was known for his versatility, excelling in ventriloquism, children’s shows, and close-up magic. His writing reflects his humor and creativity, making the book both instructional and entertaining. The book also features vintage advertisements, illustrations, and letters between Baker and other magicians like Ted Annemann.

Who should consider the trick

This book is best suited for:

  • Magic historians interested in early 20th-century magic.
  • Serious performers looking for classic, well-tested routines.
  • Mentalism enthusiasts, as Baker was an early proponent of the "center theory."
  • Collectors of rare and significant magic literature.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty varies by trick. Some routines rely on simple sleight of hand, while others involve psychological subtleties. Baker’s methods are often straightforward, but mastering the performance requires practice. The book does not focus on highly technical moves, making many tricks accessible to intermediate magicians.

What magicians say

  • EruditeMagic calls the book a "time machine for magicians," praising its historical value and Baker’s innovative thinking.
  • Teller, John Carney, Eugene Berger, and Max Maven have all acknowledged Baker’s influence, with testimonials included in the book.
  • Reviewers highlight Baker’s humor and versatility, noting that his tricks remain effective and engaging today.

The book is a deep dive into the work of a magician who shaped modern magic. While the price is high, the content offers a rare look at a pivotal figure in magic history.

What people are saying about Magical Ways and Means

EruditeMagic says...

For me this book is a time machine, a way to sit down and learn from Al Baker himself, to explore the tricks, ideas, and philosophies that made him such a pivotal figure in the World of Magic.

Review videos