The Amateur Magician's Handbook
Created by: Henry Hay
The Amateur Magician's Handbook by Henry Hay is a comprehensive guide for beginners and seasoned magicians alike, covering a wide range of magic types including close-up, cards, coins, mentalism, and more. It uniquely starts with harder material to build confidence, teaching the basics of magic, misdirection, and the psychology behind why magic works. The book also includes sections on mental magic, children's magic, and performing on a platform, making it a versatile resource for magicians.
Key features
- Starts with harder material to build confidence
- Covers a wide range of magic types
- Includes sections on mental magic and children's magic
- Teaches the psychology behind magic
- Affordable and widely available
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of magic types
- Unique approach to teaching by starting with harder material
- Includes valuable psychology and misdirection lessons
- Affordable and easy to find
Cons
- Some props mentioned are outdated (e.g., thimble magic, cigarette tricks)
- May be challenging for absolute beginners due to the initial difficulty level
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The Amateur Magician's Handbook videos
5 Magic Books Every Magician Should Own
Dive into a handpicked selection of five magic books perfect for anyone starting or leveling up their magic game. 'The Amateur Magician's Handbook' by Henry Hay is a treasure trove of knowledge, though some props are old-school. Mark Wilson's 'Complete Course in Magic' is a beginner's dream with its detailed instructions and illustrations. For sleight of hand fans, 'Now You See It, Now You Don't' by Bill Tarr rates each trick's difficulty. 'Magic for Dummies' by David Pogue is your go-to for easy-to-learn tricks ideal for parties. Joshua Jay's 'Magic The Complete Course' brings magic into the 21st century with a DVD and vibrant photos. The video wraps up with smart tips on picking the right book and the joy of sharing these gems to spark new magicians' journeys.
Takeaways:
- Five beginner magic books are reviewed, each with unique strengths.
- The Amateur Magician's Handbook is comprehensive but includes outdated props.
- Mark Wilson's Complete Course in Magic is ideal for beginners due to its extensive content.
- Now You See It, Now You Don't focuses on sleight of hand with difficulty ratings.
- Magic for Dummies is well-organized and great for social settings.
- Magic The Complete Course offers a modern approach with a DVD and colorful photos.