Random Happenings by Ryan Schlutz

Effect

In Random Happenings, a spectator tears apart a book, mixes the pages, and freely selects one. They then rip their chosen page into pieces, pick any fragment, and choose a single word from it. Despite the complete fairness and randomness of their choices, the magician reveals the exact word they’re thinking of. The destruction of the book adds a dramatic, unexpected layer to the routine, making it visually engaging and highly deceptive.

Full Details

Random Happenings is a book test created by Ryan Schlutz and distributed by Abstract Effects. Unlike traditional book tests, this version eliminates the need for memory work, relying instead on a cleverly designed system that allows the spectator to freely interact with the book.

The routine includes:

• A book with two versions (a business/self-help style and a novel-style "Random Happenings").
• A method for the spectator to tear pages, mix them, and select one without any restrictions.
• A way for them to further rip their chosen page into pieces and pick any word from it.
• A foolproof revelation, either as a prediction or an immediate mind-reading effect.

The trick is self-working, meaning no advanced sleight of hand is required. However, reassembling the book after each performance takes a few minutes, making it better suited for stage or parlor settings rather than close-up.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

• Performers who want a highly interactive, visual book test.
• Those who dislike memory-based effects, as Random Happenings requires no memorization.
• Magicians looking for a strong, repeatable mentalism piece with a unique presentation.
• Stage or parlor performers, as the book-tearing aspect plays best with larger audiences.

It may not be the best choice for close-up magicians due to the post-performance reset.

Difficulty

Random Happenings is easy to perform. The method is self-working, meaning no complex sleights or memory work is needed. The main challenge lies in presentation—ensuring the spectator follows the tearing and selection process smoothly.

Steve Faulkner notes:
"It's super easy... pretty much self-working. There's no memory work in this, really important thing right—zero memory work."

What Magicians Say

Reviewers highlight the trick’s strong audience reactions and unique approach:

• Steve Faulkner praises its interactive nature: "The minute you start ripping that book up, they're going to react... it's going to look like you're ruining your book, and I think that's the strength of it."
• The lack of memory work is a major plus: "If you want to do a book test and you have issues with memory, this is probably the one for you."
• Some note minor drawbacks, like the flimsy cover and the need for a carrying case, but agree the overall impact outweighs these.

Overall, Random Happenings is a well-received, highly deceptive book test that stands out for its interactive destruction and foolproof method.