Outnumbered by John Bannon, Danny Weiser, and Matthew Wright

Effect

Outnumbered by John Bannon is a magic trick that uses a classic 1 to 15 puzzle. A spectator shuffles the puzzle pieces to ensure fairness. The magician writes down a prediction, the number 34. The puzzle is then flipped and manipulated. When the puzzle is revealed, every row, every column, and both diagonals all add up to the predicted number. This creates a powerful mathematical miracle that is both visually impressive and intellectually satisfying for the audience.

Full details

Outnumbered is a collection of six card magic routines built on clever mathematical principles. The tricks are self-working, meaning they do not require advanced sleight of hand to perform. The routines are designed to minimize setup and maximize impact, making them practical for real world performances. The book is published by 3 Monkeys Publishing. The effects cleverly disguise their mathematical foundations, making them appear as real magic rather than procedural puzzles. One highlighted routine involves a spectator's freely chosen cards matching the total of pocket change that has been on the table from the start.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who appreciate mathematical magic and self-working routines. It is suitable for performers at any skill level, from beginners to professionals, because it requires no advanced moves. Magicians looking for powerful, foolproof effects that are easy to carry and set up will find this collection valuable. It is also recommended for those who perform in close-up or casual settings and want to add a strong, intellectual miracle to their repertoire.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Outnumbered is not difficult to perform. The routines are self-working, relying on mathematical principles rather than complex sleight of hand. This makes them accessible to magicians of all experience levels. As Steve Faulkner notes, the trick is compact and easy to use. However, he also points out that the reveal can be noisy and requires practice to perform smoothly. The small parts must be handled with care to avoid loss. Strong presentation is needed to make the magic square effect truly shine.

What magicians say

Blake Aleong recommends the book for its powerful and elegant effects, stating the routines are strong and worth a magician's attention. John Bannon himself emphasizes that the tricks are designed to feel like real magic, fooling spectators unless they know the method. He highlights the importance of natural handling to keep the focus on the magic. Steve Faulkner calls it a fun and practical pocket trick, perfect for quick performances, though he notes it is not a strong closer for a formal show. The trick was also nominated for Book of the Year in the 2024 Penguin Magic Awards, indicating high regard within the magic community.