Reviews

Gr 3-6-This series makes good on its promise to reveal "secrets of magic." Precise diagrams show budding illusionists how to make all the right moves while detailed instructions guide them through the nuances of patter, misdirection, and showmanship that make each trick work. Capsule biographies of famous magicians and "Trick of the Trade" sidebars accompany card and prop tricks, illusions, and feats of prestidigitation-enough to create an entire classroom of magicians. Design that channels old-time vaudeville show bills gives the books an unusual look, and while the frequent use of small typefaces might put off a few readers, the chance to mystify friends and family may be motivating enough to make this obstacle disappear. (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.