{"title":"Books - Allied Arts","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"the-art-of-emceeing-by-paul-desmond-book","title":"The Art of Emceeing by Paul Desmond - Book","description":"\u003cspan style=\"font-size: small;\"\u003eThere are very few books on the art of being an M.C. Yet it is a job that every magician and performer is called upon to do -- sometimes when it is least expected. As a part of your profession, this is a good way to add to your fees, or the number of jobs you can do. In talking to clients or arranging your brochure, the fact that you also do MC work will often bring an interested response. Even if you only act as MC for your own lodge, church shows, magic clubs, etc. you can make it much more interesting for yourself and for the audience by applying the material in this book. The many subjects touched upon include: Preparation, From the Speakers Table to You, Speakers Introductions for You, Straight MC Work, Introductions, To Quiet An Audience, On and Off, Emergencies, Hecklers, Distraction, Backstage and Dressing Rooms, Celebrities, Amateurs, Light and Sound, Musicians, Order of Appearances, Gifts, Drawings, Awards, The Breaks, You and the Magician, You and the Girls, Introductions for all types of acts, Closing. This book belongs in the library of any working performer.\u003c\/span\u003e","brand":"Unknown Vendor","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31090029854768,"sku":"BK-B0005","price":7.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/TheArtofEmceeingbyPaulDesmond.jpg?v=1572515819"},{"product_id":"fun-with-a-handkerchief-by-philip-willmarth","title":"Fun with a Handkerchief by Philip Willmarth - Book","description":"\u003cp\u003eHere's how to have fun with a handkerchief, anywhere, any time, any place, with kids, or with adults. If you don't have a handkerchief, borrow one—or use the restaurant napkin. With a flip of the handkerchief, make the Bunny That Eats, The Little Hindu, Miss Fatima, Dr. Finkle's wonderful and lively Mouse, Handkerchief Chapeaugraphy, Melodrama with a Handkerchief, and more! This book is packed with clever bits and pieces that will make you the talk of the town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIllustrated.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31090969247792,"sku":"BK-M252","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/FunWithAHandkerchief.1.jpg?v=1572519597"},{"product_id":"thats-the-troublewit","title":"That's the Troublewit by Frank Herman - Book","description":"Troublewit is a classic feature for any act. It is a large folded paper that can be turned into dozens and dozens of amusing formations. Here is an excellent book on the subject by professional Frank Herman, who has featured Troublewit all his show business life. Like others who use it, he puts it into every conceivable type of show, with success. \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eThat's the Troublewit\u003c\/span\u003e by Frank Herman brings you many profitable ways to use this fun maker, all right out of his professional repertoire. Contents include:  A  41 Year Legacy of Fun and Profit, Trouble Manipulation, Satirical Routines with many gags, Game Warden Routine, How to Create Your Own Routines, Trade Show Routine, Late Late Movie Satire, How to break it in for long use, Troublewit Twicktionary, \"Dear Abby\", Parody, Cruise Ship Routine, very adaptable to other situations, plus many ideas and other items. Learn to use Troublewit the Frank Herman Way. Illustrated.","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31090986254384,"sku":"BK-M272","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/that_s_20the_20trouble-wit.jpg?v=1572519640"},{"product_id":"paper-capers-by-gerald-m-loe-book","title":"Paper Capers by Gerald M. Loe - Book","description":"\u003cp\u003eChicago's artist in paper gives you this fine book, a Guide to Shear Entertainment!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA fascinating subject, the art of cutting paper designs and messages in tissue and other papers, often with a single cut. It's all in this book, so you can do it. A single cut of a folded tissue and PRESTO - A Star! Or PRESTO - A Whole Ring of Stars! Or a cross, lodge emblems, Boy Scout designs, hats, seasonal designs, hearts, shamrocks, buildings, names, messages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe only book on this subject for magicians. It's 65 pages of material, with lots of illustrations.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091026001968,"sku":"BK-M118","price":7.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/paper_20capers.jpg?v=1572519900"},{"product_id":"chapeau-show-for-kids-mss-only","title":"Chapeau Show For Kids by Frances Ireland Marshall - Book","description":"\u003cp\u003eA great routine for kids, sweet with lots of laughs. Used by the author for years. Book is based on the chapeau, a big circle of felt that is made into many hats. Several different presentations are covered, all using many kids from the audience. Ideas for all boys, all girls, Cub Scouts, Instant Halloween, etc. including patter.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":31734488039472,"sku":"BK-M153","price":5.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Book + Chapeau","offer_id":31734488072240,"sku":"","price":19.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/chapeau_20show_20for_20kids.jpg?v=1572519967"},{"product_id":"let-it-go-to-your-head","title":"Let It Go To Your Head by Frances Ireland Marshall - Book","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrances Ireland Marshall (1910-2002) was an icon among all kinds of magicians—performers, dealers, creators, writers, etc.—for decades. This book explains her chapeaugraphy routine that she used for most of her career. She designed the act to be done as a kind of lecture on the history and use of hats for use at women's clubs. Some of the comments in this book haven't aged well, but it still has many insights into the performance of chapeaugraphy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom our archives:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Get your wife, daughter, girl friend into the act! Here's a great comedy routine, very female, full of audience tested laughs, every bit of patter and business furnished-and any intelligent woman can learn to do it. Written pre-women's-lib era, but definitely a woman's routine for the felt chapeau. Owned by many magicians. If not, readily available. This material was used by Frances Marshall for most of her career. A big hit on women's club circuits, spring luncheons, P.T.A.'s, anywhere women congregate. Guaranteed laugh getter in female circles. Full explanation of all accessories used, all easily obtained. Illus.\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091036782640,"sku":"BK-M165","price":7.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/let_20it_20go_20to_20your_20head.jpg?v=1572519987"},{"product_id":"wanna-bet-compiled-by-frances-marshall","title":"Wanna Bet by Frances Ireland Marshall - Book","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA lively and interesting, compelling collection of little known ideas, often referred to as \"betchas.\" Betchas are puzzling challenges that only you know the way to accomplish—like pushing a quarter through a dime sized hole. Great for bars, lunch table, offices, coffee break, parties, hospitality suites, young peoples affairs, etc. Although you introduce them as an impromptu stunt, you actually have a set program in mind for best results. These amusing little gags can make you the life of the party or gathering - they avoid the dull moments There are dozens of betchas here that are fresh and different, and will get your spectators really involved with your challenges. Compiled by expert magician Frances Marshall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeventy five betchas in the book. Start to use them now.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091038388272,"sku":"BK-M174","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/wanna_20bet.jpg?v=1572520009"},{"product_id":"fire-magic","title":"Fire Magic by Clettis Musson - Book","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003eWARNING—Fire eating is very dangerous and there is a severe risk to its practitioners. This book is only sold to adults and all advice is to be used only at the discretion of the reader. Be safe.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany wonderful fire tricks and the secrets of fire eating. Add brightness, flash, color and excitement to your show. The entire fire eating subject is covered: torches, gas jets, licking a red hot poker, drinking boiling liquid, biting hot iron, eating burning objects, fire bubbles, etc. Also the Human Blow Torch, other thrilling but different effects such as the Human Volcano, Fire Fountain, Burning a Living Head, Burning Water, the Dragon's Mouth, many others.Spectacular numbers include Colored Fire, Automatic Lamp, Mysterious Candles, Breath of Fire, etc. There are sixty tricks in all, carefully explained. Most are harmless. Where there is danger, precautions are explained. Fire eating dates back to 1000 BC, yet even today, few know its secrets.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIllustrated book.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091040845872,"sku":"BK-M184","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/fire_20magic.jpg?v=1572520026"},{"product_id":"tarbell-chalk-talk-book","title":"Tarbell's Chalk Talk Book by Dr. Harlan Tarbell - Book","description":"A chalk talk is an act in which an entertaining monologue is delivered along with rapid-fire illustrations that continually change as new additions to the drawing are made. Covers much introductory material to this art, including patterns on how to make an easel, color work, etc. Then there are dozens of drawings of the kind suitable for chalk work, many with quick changes built into them. Tarbell was one of the greatest of these artists—you will definitely learn from him. Add a new slant to your magic show!","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091043074096,"sku":"BK-M190","price":6.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/chalk_20talk_20book.jpg?v=1572520039"},{"product_id":"soups-on","title":"Soup's On by Marc Owen - Book","description":"\u003cp\u003eA whole new career in an uncrowded field for those who want extra money. Professional entertainer Marc Owen added the Comedy Waiter bit to his repertoire a few years ago with very satisfactory results. \u003cem\u003eSoup's On\u003c\/em\u003e tells you what to do, how to do it, how to get laughs, suggested props, suggested gags, how to put the act to work. Best of all, this entire thing can be put to amateur use for the man who wants to use it once or twice for a special affair.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIllustrated.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091044057136,"sku":"BK-M196","price":6.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/soup_s_20on.jpg?v=1572520051"},{"product_id":"famous-flea-act","title":"Famous Flea Act by Tom Palmer - Book","description":"\u003cp\u003eA complete act. Material on this subject has always been scarce, yet there has always been someone using this delightful hoax, somewhere in show business. The Flea Circus has been done indoors and out, on stage, in theaters, at fairs, close up, in circuses, in Ten-In-Ones, and more recently, in trade shows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery detail covered with illustrations to make all props, signs, carrying case, etc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePresentation: The audience see a table or stand set out with all the fascinating gear and trappings of a miniature circus. An arched sign at the back, proclaims the name and merits of the show, lit up by small lights. The performers on this apparatus and in the air above it are talented fleas—so the Ringmaster says. By the time the exciting and action packed show is finished, many spectators are sure about the fleas, while others are doubtful, but nobody knows for sure! The entertainer never loses sight of his job for a moment—which is to present a flea circus. A three ring show of performing fleas!\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso available as a download!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Print Copy","offer_id":32417503576112,"sku":"BK-M199","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Digital Copy","offer_id":32417503608880,"sku":"BK-M199D","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/the_20famous_20flea_20act.jpg?v=1572520057"},{"product_id":"brain-control","title":"Brain Control by S.W. Reilly - Book","description":"Being a mental expert brings you prestige, today more than ever. You will be able to memorize and deliver back fast, and with ease and poise, lists of objects, names, numbers, cities, states—lists of every kind. This kind of mental phenomena is marveled at by the world, but it's just a case of knowing the secret.","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091048153136,"sku":"BK-M209","price":7.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/brain_20control.jpg?v=1572520078"},{"product_id":"modern-fortune-telling","title":"Modern Fortune Telling by S.W. Reilly - Book","description":"\u003cp\u003eLearn the techniques of fortune telling! This book details the techniques used by fortune tellers (crystal gazers, mediums, etc.) to make it seem as though they are able to see into the future. Includes a sample reading to demonstrate how to tailor your statements based on what you can glean from the sitter's responses, reactions, age, clothing, etc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom our archives:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Make extra money, capture complete attention by telling fortunes for fun and profit. Very useful for bazaars, P.T.A. carnivals, money raisings of all kinds, great for bartenders, resort and cruise work - any place where people congregate. A fascinating entertainment just for your friends. Book covers the secret methods employed by fortune tellers, crystal gazers, mediums, etc. Prepares anyone to give readings of facts in the subjects life. Tells you what to say and how to say it. Includes easily learned methods of fortune telling with cards, streamlined, forceful. You will use this.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the introduction:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Did you ever wonder how the modern fortune teller, psychologist, or medium gave a satisfactory reading for a sitter, without preparation, on a moment's notice, and seemingly no fraud is ever detected? A few minutes study of this Mss. and you will see how it is done -- a little practice with people and you will be doing it yourself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe smart readers of today use this method because it is based on psychology and requires no apparatus. This eliminates any worry about being detected for there is nothing to detect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis style of reading is based on a framework which the reader has indelibly fixed in his mind and which consists of 12 divisions, covering about everything in the life of the average person. To this framework the reader fills in the events and details he believes apply to his particular sitter, after sizing up the sitter's appearance, age, intelligence, and general makeup (see further notes on this subject as you go thru the Mss.) to build up a satisfactory and beautiful word picture of the sitter's present and future.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091048742960,"sku":"BK-M307","price":7.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/modern_20fortune_20telling.jpg?v=1583520350"},{"product_id":"the-magic-play","title":"The Magic Play by S.H. Sharpe - Book","description":"\u003cp\u003eNowadays Doug Henning's Broadway play \u003cem\u003eThe Magic Show\u003c\/em\u003e is the most famous example of theatrical magic in drama, but there are a hundred or more years of magic plays that preceded Doug's triumph. Every magician interested in magic and drama should know all about the background of that field—here's a very pleasant way to find out about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eS.H. Sharpe (1902-1992) is famous for his thinking and research in magic. He has done extensive research to produce this volume: \u003cem\u003eThe Magic Play\u003c\/em\u003e. 150 pages of absorbing reading all about the use of magic in dramatic plays: what tricks were used, what famous personages used them, where they were used, how they were used, in what countries, and more. Several famous magicians, including Houdini, not only wrote their own plays but acted in them. The complete text of one of the most famous of all magic plays, \"Will, the Witch and the Watchman\" is included, illustrated with rare prints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDoug Henning succeeded because he came up with an idea that was new for his day. The big need now in magic is for \"something different.\" That calls for inspiration and a book like \"The Magic Play\" is inspiring to the thinking magician. A fun book for good reading. Very informative.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091051167792,"sku":"BK-M219","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/the_20magic_20play.jpg?v=1572520098"},{"product_id":"painting-with-cloth","title":"Painting With Cloth by Willard Smith - Book","description":"\u003cp\u003eA complete manual covering the subject of making and present Rag Pictures. Includes all details on easels, music, lights, patter, stage settings, work for children, religious subjects, Black Light, novelties, packing, carrying, etc. Plus, a valuable section on making your own rag pictures, what to use and how to do it, actual patterns, copying any picture, etc. There is no other book like this on Rag Pictures. You can create a valuable new act for yourself or your partner. A variety number that fits any show.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e46 pages.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091055198256,"sku":"BK-M226","price":7.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/painting_20with_20cloth.jpg?v=1572520120"},{"product_id":"kid-stuff-of-louis-bertol","title":"The Kid Stuff of Louis Bertol by Louis Bertol with Frances Marshall - Book","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor anyone who likes to make and build their own tricks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLouis Bertol (1894-1971) was an expert at creating props and entertaining children. In this book, he has carefully explained and fully illustrated every detail regarding making and presenting a variety of fantastic effects. Many effects even include complete scripts! Simple, easy to get materials are used\u003cspan\u003e—\u003c\/span\u003eideal for the home workshop. Material compiled posthumously by Frances Marshall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn entire book of excellent effects including: Happy Joe Snowman, Fish Story, The Confused Sergeant, Heads or Tails, Good for Another Hour, Ghost of Houdini, and more!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e44 tricks in all. 96 pages, spiral bound.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091122405424,"sku":"BK-M020","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/kidstuffbertol.jpg?v=1580585232"},{"product_id":"comic-trick-cartoons","title":"Comic Trick Cartoons by Harry Bjorklund - Book","description":"This is a five book set, spiral bound into one convenient book. Dozens of applause winners of all kinds, not at all difficult with these simple drawings to follow. Many quick changes, or series of changes. Many of them are suitable for present day political gags, timely topics, news subjects - just by changing the format a little. Add a new money maker to your repertoire - a small investment in time and money will do it!","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091123191856,"sku":"BK-M023","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/simple_20snappy_20comic_20trick_20cartoons.jpg?v=1572520734"},{"product_id":"dornys-comedy-blackouts","title":"Dorny's Comedy Blackouts by Werner Dornfield - Book","description":"\u003cp\u003eA \"Blackout\" is a quick bit of stage business, usually verbal, that ends in a snappy punch line on which (if possible) the lights go out. Blackouts are great for magicians and other variety acts. They add a bit of novelty and spice to shows, fill time between acts, rarely require more than a few simple props, and can stall for time while the backstage crew handles transitions or fixes mistakes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten by famed and beloved comedy magician Werner \"Dorny\" Dornfeld (1892-1982,) the Blackouts in this book are among the first ever published and are all audience tested, guaranteed laughs. For school work or adults.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091127320624,"sku":"BK-M043","price":6.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/dcb.jpg?v=1588888144"},{"product_id":"if-youre-the-m-c","title":"If You're The M.C. by Jay Marshall and Frances Marshall - Book","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe complete art of the Master of Ceremonies. M.C.s are often needed for variety shows, but few people know how to do the job properly. Learn what you need to be an M.C.! Add to your income. This book includes information from the very best in the field. It is a complete education, with valuable tips and information even for the experienced. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased on the book by William Roulis, rewritten and enlarged by Frances Marshall. Includes a special section by Jay Marshall and the revised text of the \"Magical MC\" by Lloyd Jones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA printed, illustrated book that belongs in every magician's library - ready for the moment you may need it.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Magic Inc.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31091188924464,"sku":"BK-M158","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/M.C.web.jpg?v=1572521411"},{"product_id":"miracle-mongers-and-their-methods-by-houdini-hardcover-book","title":"Miracle Mongers and Their Methods by Houdini (Hardcover) - Book","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePrometheus Books, hardcover. 240 pages. Foreword by Amazing Randi.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe legendary magician and illusionist Harry Houdini turns a critical eye to the astonishing claims of those in his own profession. Using personal research and observations, Houdini reveals the cunning techniques employed by fire-eaters, sword swallowers, and other masters of deception to mystify and amaze audiences around the world. This classic skeptical work explores and exposes the methods of such \"wonders\" as \"The Incombustible Spaniard,\" \"Defiers of Poisonous Reptiles,\" and many others. Originally published in the 1920s, Miracle Mongers and Their Methods scrupulously examines the direct predecessors of modern psychics and mentalists.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"My professional life has been a constant record of disillusion,\" writes Houdini in his preface, \"and many things that seem wonderful to most men are the everyday commonplace in my business. But I have never been without some seeming marvel to pique my curiousity and challenge my investigation. In this book I have set down some of the stories of strange folk and unusual performers that I have gathered in many years of such research.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe greatest magician of his time, Houdini baffled experts and amateurs alike with his sensational and dangerous feats. Houdini attained worldwide fame during his lifetime for his daring escapes from strait-jackets, jails, underwater chambers, and a variety of \"escape-proof\" devices. Throughout his career, Houdini insisted that all of his feats could be rationally explained and boldly exposed the methods of those claiming supernatural powers.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ever present fascination with psychics and miracle mongers makes this book as timely as when it was originally written.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Prometheus Books","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31734731735088,"sku":"BK-HOUMM-A","price":19.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/products\/792823.jpg?v=1583300324"},{"product_id":"the-complete-book-of-hand-shadows-by-louis-nikola-book","title":"The Complete Book of Hand Shadows by Louis Nikola - Book","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"ctl00_Content_ProductDetailPanel\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"ProductDetails\" class=\"ProductDetailsBody\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"CobaltProductPage_ItemDesc\" class=\"ItemDetailDescription\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"DescriptionPanel\"\u003eGenerations of entertainers have amused audiences of children and adults with the art of hand shadows, using only a light source and their own two hands to form immediately recognizable profiles of people and animals. Lovers of nostalgia and aspiring hand shadow artists will delight in this facsimile of a 1913 book, which features more than fifty hand shadows.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThese quaint illustrations depict many different types of shadows, from swans, rabbits, and other animals to historic figures and fictional characters. Each hand shadow is accompanied by a description of specific hand positioning and an illustration. Additional helpful tips include instructions on lighting, projection screens, and hand exercises.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReprint of the C. Arthur Pearson, Ltd. London, 1913 edition.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Dover","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41952756301872,"sku":"BK-NICB","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0271\/6922\/6800\/files\/58998-full.png?v=1744077830"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.magicinc.net\/collections\/books-allied-arts-1.oembed?page=2","provider":"Magic Inc.","version":"1.0","type":"link"}