SleightfulTim Conover: the books
Jay from Erudite Magic reviews the long-awaited Tim Conover book collection, a multi-volume set compiling the lifetime work of this respected close-up magic creator. He explores the contents of each volume, including 'The Magic of Tim Conover', 'The Mentalism of Tim Conover', 'The Cylinder & Coins', and the optional 'Selections from the Tim Conover Notebooks', highlighting the treasure trove of professional-caliber routines and detailed presentations. While praising the material's quality and practicality for serious performers, he notes considerations like the utilitarian production, text density, and significant cost, ultimately recommending it as an essential resource for dedicated magicians seeking to build a reputation with elegant, audience-tested magic.
Tricks mentioned
Key points
The books compile Tim Conover's lifetime of professional close-up magic work into a 3 or 4 volume set.
Volumes include 'The Magic of Tim Conover', 'The Mentalism of Tim Conover', 'The Cylinder & Coins', and an optional notebook volume.
Material is described as a treasure trove of elegant, practical routines with detailed presentations and scripting.
Content is aimed at serious performers with a solid foundation in sleight of hand, not beginners.
Routines often require specialized props, such as variations of the Okito coin box, which performers may need to construct or source.
Physical production is sturdy but utilitarian, with dense text and no color photographs.
The full set represents a significant financial investment, but offers exceptional value for dedicated magicians.
The books are framed as a foundational resource for building a reputation in close-up magic.