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Tossed Out Book Method by Josh Zandman

Created by: Josh Zandman

The 'Tossed Out Book Method' is a versatile mentalism trick that allows the performer to read the minds of multiple spectators simultaneously. Spectators each look at the last word on a random page of a book, and the performer can accurately reveal each word they're thinking of. This method is 100% self-working, requiring only the memorization of five words, making it accessible for performers of all skill levels. It's perfect for close-up or stage performances, especially during holiday events, and can be combined with other methods for a layered and impressive routine.

Key features

  • Multiple methods included for varied performances

  • 100% self-working with minimal memorization required

  • Suitable for reading multiple spectators' minds simultaneously

  • Lightly examinable book adds to the trick's credibility

  • Perfect for holiday performances with adaptable presentation options

Pros

  • Versatile with multiple methods for different effects

  • Easy to learn and perform with minimal preparation

  • Engages multiple spectators at once

  • Book is lightly examinable, enhancing the trick's mystery

  • Ideal for holiday-themed performances

Cons

  • Requires memorization of five words for the Tossed Out Book Method

  • Book is only lightly examinable, limiting close scrutiny

Effect

The Tossed Out Book Method is a mentalism effect where the performer can read the minds of multiple spectators at once. The performer tosses a book into the audience, and up to five different spectators each flip to a random page and look at the last word on that page. Without any fishing or forcing, the performer reveals each spectator's chosen word one by one, creating a powerful demonstration of mind-reading.

Full Details

The Tossed Out Book Method is part of Josh Zandman's "A Christmas Carol" book test. It is designed to be completely self-working, requiring no sleight of hand or complex memorization. The performer only needs to remember five words to execute the effect flawlessly. The book can be handed out and examined briefly by spectators, adding to the illusion of fairness.

This method can also be adapted for a single spectator. A random book (ungimmicked) can be used, and the performer can reveal the spectator's chosen word from a distance, eliminating any suspicion of peeking or secret signals.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This method is ideal for:

  • Mentalists who want a clean, self-working book test.
  • Performers who need a reliable way to engage multiple spectators at once.
  • Magicians looking for an examinable prop that requires minimal setup.
  • Those who want to combine it with other book test methods for layered routines.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Tossed Out Book Method is rated as easy to perform. According to Michael O'Brien, it is "100% self-working" and only requires memorizing five words. No advanced sleight of hand or complex techniques are needed, making it accessible even for beginners.

What Magicians Say

Michael O'Brien, in his review, highlights the method's simplicity and effectiveness:

  • "You can have all five of those spectators stand up... and one at a time you can point to each individual spectator and tell them which word they're thinking of."
  • "It's 100% self-working... if you can memorize five words, this is going to be perfect for you."
  • "This is great for those spectators that think that maybe you're peeking... you can actually hand the book to the spectator, they can be standing on the other side of the room, and you can still tell them exactly what word it is."

The method is praised for its versatility, allowing performers to adapt it for different scenarios while maintaining a strong, deceptive effect.

What people are saying about Tossed Out Book Method

Michael O'Brien says...

The Tossed Out Book Method is 100% self-working and only requires memorizing five words. [...] It's a really quick and easy way to read five different Spectators' Minds at once.

Review videos