The Trick Brain by Dariel Fitzkee

Created by: Dariel Fitzkee

The Trick Brain is a foundational book in magic theory, authored by Dariel Fitzkee, that serves as a comprehensive blueprint for creativity and effect engineering in magic. It is designed for magicians of all types—close-up, parlour, stage, mentalism, card, coin, and more—who want to move beyond performing established tricks to inventing their own original effects. The book breaks down magic into core principles, methods, and psychological elements, guiding readers through a systematic process to generate new ideas and routines. Buyers should know that this is not a trick collection but a theoretical work focused on developing creative thinking and problem-solving skills in magic, making it ideal for those looking to build a unique, authentic performance style and enhance their repertoire with personalized magic.

Key features

Provides a structured framework for inventing original magic effects
Emphasizes creativity and engineering over rote trick performance
Suitable for magicians in various disciplines including close-up, stage, and mentalism
Helps in developing a unique performance voice and authentic style
Encourages context-driven performance over rigid dogma

Pros

Fosters long-term creative growth and innovation in magic
Highly versatile, applicable to diverse magic types and settings
Builds foundational skills for professional performance development

Cons

Not a collection of ready-to-perform tricks; requires effort to apply concepts
May be challenging for beginners without prior theoretical knowledge

Effect

The Trick Brain is a book that provides a system for creating new magic tricks. It gives magicians a structured way to think about magic effects and methods. Readers learn to combine different elements to invent original routines. The book acts as a creativity tool for building unique performances.

Full details

The Trick Brain is a theory book by Fitzkee. It breaks down magic into core components. The book presents a framework for generating new ideas. It covers principles of magic construction. The material helps magicians move beyond copying existing tricks. Ben Williams describes it as a foundational blueprint for creativity. He says it helps magicians engineer their own original effects. The book is a resource for understanding how magic works from a structural perspective.

Who should consider the trick

This book is for magicians who want to create their own material. It suits performers developing a unique style. It helps those who feel stuck using only published tricks. The Trick Brain is valuable for magicians building a professional set. It is for anyone interested in the theory behind magic construction. Ben Williams recommends it as a key resource for working professionals.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Trick Brain is a book of theory, not a trick to perform. Understanding the concepts requires study and practice. Applying the system demands creative effort. The difficulty lies in learning to think systematically about magic. It is not a quick fix but a long-term investment in magical knowledge. The principles can be complex but are presented in a structured way.

What magicians say

Ben Williams strongly recommends The Trick Brain. He says it provides a blueprint for creativity. He uses it as a tool for engineering original effects. He considers it a foundational resource for any serious magician. The book has helped him develop a unique performance voice. He values its practical approach to magic construction.

What people are saying about The Trick Brain

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Ben recommends Fitzkee's 'The Trick Brain' as a creativity blueprint and elastic as a versatile tool for magic mechanics.