Where to Learn Magic
The cheapest (and in my opinion, the best) way to find new magic to learn and perform is through books. There are thousands and thousands of books written about magic, and in each one there are dozens and dozens (and DOZENS!) of magic tricks explained. Here are three of the very best if you’re setting out on your magical adventure. I’ve listed the links to purchase them on Amazon (and of course there are other places you can buy them, including from your local independent bookshops), but the CHEAPEST way to get these books is from your local library, where they are absolutely FREE!!
Complete Course in Magic by Mark Wilson
This is a huge book filled with every kind of magic you can imagine, from the smallest card and coin tricks to the largest stage ullusions. In between he teaches the techniques and sleight of hand you’ll need to perform the tricks, as well as the theory of planning your act, stagecraft, misdirection and other skills as you follow your magical dreams.
The Royal Road to Card Magic by Jean Hugard and Frederick Braue
If card tricks are your thing, then you MUST read this book. Every professional magician worth mentioning has this book on his or her bookshelf. It has everything to you need to know, from how to hold the cards, cutting the cards, shuffling the cards, then the sleight of hand that brings about the magic, and finally dozens and dozens (and DOZENS!) of card tricks of every possible variety.
There is enough material in this book alone to create and build an entire craeer as a magician. And many professional magicians have done exactly that.
Modern Coin Magic by J. J. Bobo
What the ‘Royal Road’ is to card magic, Modern Coin Magic is to coins. It is THE classic book on how to use coins to entertain with magic. Any coins. Coins you already have in your pocket or piggy bank. Some tricks use props, but nothing special, just things you already have at home like handkerchiefs or drinking glasses.
Again, there is enough material in this book to make a lifetime career in magic. And even if you just perform tricks for friends, coin tricks are some of the best because EVERYONE has some coins you can borrow. And magic with borrowed objects is always more amazing the tricks with your own props.
If you read JUST THESE THREE BOOKS, you’ll have more than enough material to last a lifetime. And you’ll come back to these books again and again, as I do. And if you’d like some advice, just drop me an email or call me on 07708 251312 and I’ll be very happy to help.
Enjoy your magic, and I hope I see you at one of MY shows very soon.
Good luck!