Street Magic: Street Tricks, Sleight of Hand and Illusion

"Street Magic" is just that. Sleights of hand that require a minimum of preparation (if any, other than practice), and can be done almost anywhere and usually within arms reach of the spectator. Paul Zenon starts with an introduction which included some history of magic and performance that I hadn't heard before. This is followed with a clear and thorough discussion of the practical aspects of working an audience, and conduct of an illusionist in general (and there is more to it than "a magician never reveals his secrets"). He then goes directly into over forty tricks. Most require no preparation other than practice, and the props for all of them would fit in a single pocket of a day pack, and only one or two (that I recall) need to be bought at a magicians's supply shop. Coin tricks, card tricks, and trick with tableware like cups and spoons are the order of the day. All the tricks are clearly explained and well illustrated. This book should provide any amateur sleight of hand artist with a great foundation, and provides some interesting background and discussion for more experienced illusionists. E. M. Van Court

This book has it all. From simple, self-working tricks, to slick card handling, to magic "gimmicks" you can make or buy, you'll find everything you need to put together a fine performance. It covers coin magic, card tricks, mentalism, and classic hustles like the 3 card monte. This book shows you how to do lots of the fundamentals (french drop, finger palm, double lift, undercuts, breaks, injogs, etc.) and gives you some nice routines to perform using these techniques. Definitely one of the best in my collection.

This is easily one of the better books for beginners. Quite a few pictures and clear instructions make this a real winner. The author does a superb job of explaining how to present each illusion which in reality is far more important than the mechanics behind the trick. This is a nice change from many of the other magic books targeted at the novice. By the way, the tricks cover a wide range (e.g. cards, coins, mentalism) and are all of high quality.

This book not only contains great tricks but it also explains them in a way easily followed, with detailed color photographs and understandable text. Highly recommended!

I predict that this book will become a classic for both beginning and intermediate magicians. Very little of the material is new and it won't make you the next David Blaine, but it does provide excellent handlings of classic tricks which require little or no set-up. The explanations and photos are clear and helpful.