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The Expert at the Card Table by David Ben

Created by: David Ben

The Expert at the Card Table by David Ben is a reimagined version of S.W. Ernes' classic book, designed to make the advanced sleight of hand and gambling techniques more accessible. This version replaces the original's dense language and unclear illustrations with 750 crystal-clear photographs of David Ben's hands performing the techniques, offering a superior learning tool for magicians interested in card magic.

Key features

  • Reformatted text for improved clarity

  • 750 crystal-clear photographs of David Ben's hands performing techniques

  • Combines original text with modern visual aids for enhanced learning

  • Covers advanced sleight of hand and gambling techniques

  • Recommended for both studying and performing classic card routines

Pros

  • Superior learning tool compared to the original

  • Clear, visual aids enhance comprehension

  • Valuable resource for mastering classic card routines

Cons

  • May still require dedication and practice to master the techniques

Effect

The book The Expert at the Card Table by David Ben teaches advanced card techniques, including sleight of hand and gambling moves. The effects vary depending on the technique performed, but they generally involve deceptive card handling that can be used for magic tricks or card game manipulation.

Full Details

David Ben’s version of The Expert at the Card Table is a modern update to the original 1902 book by S.W. Erdnase. The original was groundbreaking but difficult to learn due to its dense language and unclear illustrations. Ben’s version improves clarity by reformatting the text and replacing the original drawings with 750 high-quality photographs of his hands performing each move. This makes the techniques easier to understand and practice.

The book covers a wide range of card skills, from basic sleights to advanced cheating methods. It is structured to help magicians and card enthusiasts learn step by step.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This book is best for serious card magicians and card handlers who want to master classic techniques. It is also useful for gamblers interested in learning deceptive card moves. Beginners may find some sections challenging, but dedicated practice will yield results.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty varies by technique. Some moves are straightforward, while others require significant practice. The book is not for casual learners—it demands time and effort. However, the clear photographs make learning easier than with the original version.

What Magicians Say

SaturnMagicShop strongly recommends David Ben’s version, calling it "a superior learning tool compared to the original." They highlight the value of Ben’s photographs, stating, "Now we can read S.W. Erdnase’s text but see an expert’s hands executing the techniques." Their method involves alternating between the original text and Ben’s visuals for deeper learning.

The reviewer concludes, "I could not recommend this book enough," emphasizing its usefulness for both study and performance.

What people are saying about The Expert at the Card Table by David Ben

SaturnMagicShop says...

David Ben's version is a superior learning tool compared to the original. [...] The book is valuable for both studying and performing classic card routines.

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