Tesseract by Mike Powers

Effect

Tesseract by Mike Powers is a hardback book containing 55 close-up magic tricks, primarily focused on card magic but also including coins, paper money, and other effects. The routines are designed to create strong, memorable moments for audiences, often featuring unexpected twists and engaging plots. Many tricks involve cards seemingly vanishing, transposing, or revealing impossible information, leaving spectators baffled.

Full details

The book is divided into multiple sections, including "Unprepared Mysteries," "Prepared Mysteries," "Scripted Mysteries," and "Pure Mathematics." Each section offers a different style of magic, from self-working card tricks to more involved routines requiring slight preparation. The "Prepared Mysteries" section includes effects like "Triple Whammy," a triple selection routine with a surprising transposition, and "Twilight Zone Monte," which starts as a gambling demonstration before turning into something surreal.

The "Pure Mathematics" section contains self-working tricks that rely on mathematical principles, such as "Invisible 21," a deceptive take on the classic 21-card trick. The book also includes essays on magic theory, with one using the concept of a tesseract (a four-dimensional cube) as a metaphor for performance.

Who should consider the trick

Tesseract is ideal for intermediate to advanced magicians who enjoy card magic and are looking for strong, well-structured routines. The book is especially valuable for performers who appreciate tricks with engaging plots and strong finishes. While some effects require minimal preparation (like a breather crimp or double-backed card), most are accessible with standard card handling skills.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty varies by trick. Some routines, like those in the "Pure Mathematics" section, are self-working and require no advanced sleight of hand. Others, such as "Boxed Surprise" or "Devilish Miracle," involve more nuanced handling and misdirection. The book provides clear explanations, making even the more complex tricks manageable with practice.

What magicians say

Steve Faulkner from RealMagicReview praises Tesseract for its variety and strong finishes, calling it "a standout choice" for magicians. He highlights "The Lying Traveler" and "Devilish Miracle" as particularly strong routines, noting their commercial appeal. He also appreciates the book's layout and crisp photos, making it easy to follow.

Another reviewer, also from RealMagicReview, emphasizes the book's depth, stating that "every single routine has been thought through." They describe "Boxed Surprise" as "worth the price of the book alone" and commend the "Pure Mathematics" section for its clever, self-working tricks. The essays on magic theory are also highlighted as thought-provoking and insightful.

Overall, Tesseract is highly recommended for magicians who want a mix of strong card magic, engaging plots, and theoretical insights.