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Tossed Out Plus by Josh Zandman

Created by: Josh Zandman

Tossed Out Plus is a mentalism trick that allows the performer to reveal not just a word a spectator is thinking of, but also the image they're creating in their mind. This trick is part of the Universal Monsters book test series, which includes themed books like *Dracula*, *Frankenstein*, and *Hunchback of Notre Dame*. The books are lightly examinable and can be used for various routines, including reading multiple minds at once from a distance. The trick is suitable for both close-up and stage performances, offering a high degree of accuracy and versatility in presentation.

Key features

  • Part of the Universal Monsters book test series

  • Allows for revealing both the thought-of word and the associated image

  • Books are lightly examinable and appear ordinary

  • Can be performed with spectators at a distance

  • Multiple methods included for varied performances

  • Suitable for both experienced and aspiring performers

Pros

  • Highly versatile with multiple performance methods

  • Books are lightly examinable, adding to the trick's credibility

  • Can perform with spectators far from the performer

  • No need for extensive memorization

  • Suitable for a wide range of performers

Cons

  • Requires purchase of at least one book from the series

  • Books cannot be read cover to cover as they contain gimmicked information

Effect

The Tossed Out Plus is a book test variation where the performer reads the minds of multiple spectators simultaneously. Two spectators each think of a word from different books or different pages of the same book. Instead of simply revealing the words, the performer describes the mental images the spectators are visualizing based on those words. For example, if a spectator thinks of "sunset," the performer describes a vivid sunset scene, enhancing the illusion of true mind reading.

Full Details

The Tossed Out Plus is part of Josh Zandman's Universal Monsters book test series, which includes themed books like Dracula, Frankenstein, and Hunchback of Notre Dame. The method is self-working, meaning no memorization or complex sleight of hand is required. The books are lightly examinable, appearing ordinary to spectators while containing the necessary information for the effect.

The routine works as follows:

  • Two spectators each select a word from different books or pages.
  • The performer knows the words in advance due to the book's gimmick.
  • Instead of directly stating the words, the performer describes the mental images associated with them.
  • The effect feels more personal and engaging than a standard word reveal.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Tossed Out Plus is ideal for performers who:

  • Want a multi-spectator mentalism routine.
  • Prefer self-working methods with minimal memorization.
  • Enjoy book tests and want a fresh presentation.
  • Perform for groups where interactive mind reading enhances the experience.

Difficulty

The trick is beginner-friendly. No advanced sleight of hand or memorization is needed. The books provide all necessary information, making it accessible even to those new to mentalism. However, performers should practice presentation to maximize impact.

What Magicians Say

Michael O'Brien, in his review, highlights the Tossed Out Plus as a standout method in the Universal Monsters series. He emphasizes its fairness and impact:

  • "You're revealing the images in their mind... it's a completely fair choice and really is that easy."
  • "The books tell you everything you need to know upfront before they've even chosen a word."

The method is praised for its versatility, allowing performers to adapt it to different styles and group sizes. The lightly examinable nature of the books adds to the effect's credibility.

What people are saying about Tossed Out Plus

Michael O'Brien says...

The Universal Monsters book test series is jam-packed full of all sorts of different methods... you can have like an entire 30 minute mind reading session with just these books.

Review videos