The Universal Monsters Collection (Dracula) by Josh Zandman

Effect

The Universal Monsters Collection (Dracula) by Josh Zandman is a book test that allows a magician to reveal words or phrases chosen by spectators with high accuracy. The spectator freely selects a book, a page, and a word, yet the performer knows exactly what they are thinking. The effect can be performed at a distance, with multiple spectators, or even with borrowed books, making it highly versatile.

Full Details

The Universal Monsters Collection includes three themed books: Dracula, Frankenstein, and Hunchback of Notre Dame. Each book is lightly examinable, appearing ordinary while containing hidden information for the performer. The series supports multiple methods, including:

• Multiple Book Method: A spectator picks one book, and the performer uses another to reveal their chosen word.
• Super Flashback: The spectator stops at any page, and the performer reveals the first word.
• Pegasus Page Method: The spectator memorizes a page number and a word, and the performer produces the exact missing page from their possession.
• Tossed Out Book Test: Multiple spectators each think of a word, and the performer reveals them all without looking at the book.
• Reverse Book Test: The performer uses a borrowed book alongside the gimmicked book to reveal a chosen word.

The books work together seamlessly, allowing for varied presentations without forcing specific choices.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for performers who want a versatile, self-working book test with strong audience interaction. It suits both beginners and experienced magicians, as it requires minimal memorization. Those who enjoy mentalism, book tests, or Halloween-themed performances will find it especially appealing.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Universal Monsters Collection is designed to be easy to perform. Most methods require no memorization or complex sleight of hand. The performer simply follows the built-in system to reveal information. Some routines, like the Pegasus Page Method, involve additional handling but remain straightforward.

What Magicians Say

Michael O'Brien from SaturnMagicShop praises the series, calling it "versatile, easy to use, and cleverly gimmicked." He highlights the ability to perform for multiple spectators at a distance and the lack of forced choices. He also recommends joining the "Xanman Book Test" Facebook group for additional ideas and community support.

The books are described as "lightly examinable," meaning spectators can flip through them without detecting the method. O'Brien notes, "They can flip through the pages, and it looks like a completely ordinary book." The series is praised for its reliability, with effects hitting "100% of the time."

Overall, the Universal Monsters Collection (Dracula) is a well-received book test that offers strong, repeatable mentalism effects with minimal effort.